About
Dr. Andrea Melissa Prima Steyn is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Penticton, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams while adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her role involves ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout all stages of anesthesia care, with a focus on individualized, compassionate management tailored to each patient's needs.
Dr. Steyn graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2003 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. Her certifications include successful completion of the relevant residency programs and maintaining professional competence through ongoing education and adherence to provincial and national standards.
Her clinical philosophy is rooted in calm and reassuring communication, ensuring that patients feel supported and informed at every step. Committed to patient safety, Dr. Steyn speaks English and French fluently, facilitating clear communication with a diverse patient population in Penticton and surrounding communities.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Steyn (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Steyn primarily practices at medical facilities situated in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, and Naramata Bench neighborhoods of Penticton. These locations are conveniently close to the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC). Patients can access the facilities via the South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System operated by BC Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Steyn? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Steyn during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances. In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Steyn during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Steyn for my anesthesia?
- While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Steyn from the team covering your procedure.
- What are common side effects of anesthesia?
- Common, usually temporary side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat (if a breathing tube was used), drowsiness, dizziness, shivering, or minor discomfort at an IV or block site. Dr. Steyn takes steps to minimize these (e.g., using anti-nausea medication). More serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed if relevant to your specific situation.
- How will my pain be managed after the procedure?
- Effective pain management is a priority. Depending on the procedure, Dr. Steyn may use strategies like regional nerve blocks placed before or during surgery for prolonged numbness, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps, epidural infusions, or a combination of different types of pain medications (multimodal analgesia). The goal is to keep you comfortable to aid recovery and mobility. This plan is often coordinated with the surgical team.
- Will I definitely meet the Anesthesiologist before my surgery/procedure?
- You will always have an anesthesia assessment before your procedure. For major surgeries or complex health issues, this often occurs at a pre-admission clinic days or weeks beforehand. For healthier patients undergoing shorter procedures, the detailed discussion and assessment with Dr. Steyn (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.
550 Carmi Ave, Penticton Regional Hospital
Penticton, BC V2A 3G6
Phone: (250) 492-4000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Steyn is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/327692/Steyn%2CAndrea