About
With expertise in Anesthesiology, Dr. Brian Charles Thomas Kirk ensures patients receive appropriate anesthetic management tailored to their needs. Practicing primarily at facilities in Nepean, ON, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, adhering to the standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Kirk provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, focusing on optimizing patient safety and comfort during medical procedures. His practice primarily involves patients requiring anesthesia for surgical or medical interventions, ensuring individualized and evidence-based care.
Dr. Kirk graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1978, Canada. He has been practicing as a specialist in Anesthesiology for over 41 years, since 1983. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his extensive training and commitment to maintaining high standards in his specialty.
His clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing patient safety and comfort in Nepean. Dr. Kirk communicates fluently in English and is dedicated to providing clear, compassionate, and safe anesthetic care in accordance with current best practices.
- Acute Postoperative Pain Management: Implementing strategies to manage pain immediately after surgery, utilizing multimodal approaches like regional blocks, IV medications, or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / Sedation: Providing varying levels of sedation (light to deep) and analgesia, combined with close monitoring of vital signs, for procedures not requiring general anesthesia.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Kirk (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 Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Kirk primarily practices at Ross Memorial Hospital, located near the central Nepean neighborhood of Nepean. The hospital provides convenient access for residents of the area, including those visiting from nearby points of interest such as Kanata and Barrhaven. The facility is accessible via local public transit, making it easy for patients to reach appointments. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenience for those arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Kirk? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Kirk during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Kirk 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. Kirk from the team covering your procedure.
- What about nausea and vomiting after anesthesia?
- Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can occur, but Anesthesiologists like Dr. Kirk use strategies to prevent it, especially for patients at higher risk. This may include specific anesthetic techniques, administering anti-nausea medications before, during, or after the procedure, and ensuring adequate hydration. If you do experience nausea, effective treatments are available in the recovery room.
- What if I have allergies or previous bad reactions to anesthesia?
- It is absolutely crucial to inform Dr. Kirk during your pre-anesthetic assessment about any known allergies (to medications, latex, food, etc.) and any previous experiences (good or bad) with anesthesia or sedation. This information helps tailor a safe plan and avoid agents you may react to.
- Should I take my regular medications on the day of the procedure?
- This depends entirely on the specific medication and instructions given to you. You MUST discuss all your regular medications with your surgeon and the anesthesia team during your pre-assessment. Some medications (like certain blood pressure pills) may be taken with a sip of water, while others (especially blood thinners, some diabetes medications) must be stopped or adjusted days beforehand. Never change your medication routine without specific instructions.
Ross Memorial Hospital
3045 Baseline Road
Nepean, ON K2H 8P4
Phone: (613) 721-2000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kirk is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kirk-Brian-Charles-Thomas/0036999-50975