Dr. Caroline Dussault – Anesthesiologist | Thetford Mines, QC

As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Caroline Dussault plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at facilities in Thetford Mines, QC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring that each patient receives attentive and individualized care. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), emphasizing professionalism, safety, and compassion. Dr. Dussault provides comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, focusing on minimizing discomfort and anxieties associated with medical procedures.

She graduated with a Medical Degree in 2017 and holds a specialty certification in Anesthesiology issued on July 1, 2017. Dr. Dussault completed extensive postgraduate medical training in Anesthesiology, equipping her with the expertise required to manage a broad spectrum of anesthetic needs. Her training included rotations in various hospital settings, refining her skills in perioperative medicine, patient monitoring, and pain management.

Dr. Dussault’s clinical philosophy centers on providing calm, reassuring, and patient-centered care. She is committed to prioritizing safety and comfort, ensuring that every patient in Thetford Mines feels supported throughout their surgical journey. Fluent in French, she communicates clearly and compassionately, helping patients feel at ease and well-informed about their anesthesia care.

• Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
• Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
• 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.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.

Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Dussault (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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Dr. Dussault primarily practices at the Hôpital de Thetford Mines, Anesthésiologie, situated near the central neighborhood of Thetford Mines. The hospital is conveniently located close to local points of interest such as the Centre d'Exposition and Parc des Anciens Combattants. Patients can access the facility via local public transit, with bus stops nearby. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient options for those arriving by car.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Dussault? Is it covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?

In QC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Dussault during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for specific circumstances.

Can I directly request Dr. Dussault 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. Dussault 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.

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. Dussault (or a colleague providing your care that day) may happen just before the procedure starts. In either case, your questions will be answered.

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.

Hôpital de Thetford Mines, Anesthésiologie
1717 rue Notre-Dame E
Thetford Mines, QC G6G 2V4

Phone: (418) 338-7777

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Dussault is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=17221