About
As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Kaylyn Elizabeth May Merrifield plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in Victoria, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring high standards of care in accordance with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her focus encompasses comprehensive anesthetic management for patients requiring anesthesia for various surgical and medical procedures.
Dr. Merrifield graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2015 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. Her training includes specialized residencies and certifications that equip her with the skills necessary for safe and effective anesthetic care. She maintains certification and adheres to the latest clinical guidelines to provide evidence-based treatment.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism, patient safety, and individualized care. She is committed to maintaining the highest standards within her practice in Victoria, speaking fluent English. Dr. Merrifield strives to foster a reassuring environment for her patients, prioritizing their comfort and well-being throughout their perioperative experience.
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- 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).
- 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.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Merrifield (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. Merrifield primarily practices at medical facilities situated in the Fairfield East and Oaklands neighborhoods of Victoria, BC. These locations are conveniently close to the Bay Centre Shopping Mall and the Downtown Core, making access straightforward for patients. The facilities are accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The practice locations are equipped to accommodate patients with mobility needs, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Merrifield? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Merrifield 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. Merrifield 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. Merrifield from the team covering your procedure.
- 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.
213-2186 Oak Bay Ave, Anaesthetic Services
Victoria, BC V8R 1G3
Phone: (250) 595-7211
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Merrifield 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/368105/Merrifield%2CKaylyn