About
Dr. Briggitte Beverley Okaisabor, a respected Anesthesiologist, is committed to the highest standards of perioperative care and pain management. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Kamloops, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative process. Her practice is aligned with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), reflecting her dedication to maintaining excellence in medical care. Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include anesthesiology for various surgical procedures, with a primary emphasis on patient safety and individualized care.
Dr. Okaisabor graduated with an MB ChB from the University of the Free State Faculty of Health Sciences in 2001, in South Africa. She has completed extensive post-graduate training in Anesthesiology, acquiring the necessary certifications and clinical experience to provide a broad range of anesthetic services. Her training emphasizes safe anesthesia practices, airway management, and pain control, equipping her to handle diverse clinical scenarios with expertise and compassion.
With a calm and reassuring approach, Dr. Okaisabor is dedicated to ensuring her patients feel safe and well-informed. She speaks English and Afrikaans, allowing her to effectively communicate with a diverse patient population in Kamloops. Her philosophy centers on patient-centered care, prioritizing safety, comfort, and clear communication at every stage of the anesthesia process.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
- Pre-Anesthetic Assessment and Consultation: Thorough evaluation of patient health, medical history, medications, and surgical/procedural plan to create the safest and most effective anesthesia plan.
- 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.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Okaisabor (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. Okaisabor primarily practices at medical facilities situated in the Downtown Kamloops area and the South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. These facilities are conveniently located near Aberdeen Mall and are accessible via the Kamloops Transit System operated by BC Transit. The practice location offers a welcoming environment with a focus on patient comfort. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, ensuring ease of access for all patients.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Okaisabor? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Okaisabor 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. Okaisabor 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. Okaisabor from the team covering your procedure.
- Why is it important to follow fasting instructions?
- Fasting (not eating or drinking) before anesthesia is critical for your safety. If there is food or liquid in your stomach during anesthesia, it could potentially come up into your throat and lungs (aspiration), which can cause serious lung complications. Following the specific fasting times given to you significantly reduces this risk.
- 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. Okaisabor 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.
- 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.
311 Columbia St, Royal Inland Hospital
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1
Phone: (250) 374-5111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Okaisabor 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/376728/Okaisabor%2CBriggitte