Dr. Rajvir Kaur Chahal is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in Nanaimo, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort are always prioritized. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include specialty practice in anesthesiology, with particular attention to patient-centered care during perioperative and procedural settings.
Dr. Chahal graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from St. George's University School of Medicine in 2016, located in Grenada. She completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology, gaining the necessary certifications and clinical experience to serve her patients effectively. Her training emphasizes comprehensive perioperative care, patient safety, and pain management.
With a calm and reassuring approach, Dr. Chahal is committed to ensuring her patients feel safe and well-informed throughout their procedural journey. She speaks English fluently and strives to create a comforting environment for all her patients in Nanaimo, emphasizing safety and personalized care at every step.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- 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.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Chahal (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. Chahal primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood of Nanaimo. These facilities are conveniently situated near Brooks Landing Shopping Centre, making it easy for patients to access care. The locations are accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring convenient public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Chahal? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Chahal 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. Chahal 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. Chahal 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's the difference between an Anesthesiologist and other anesthesia providers?
- In Canada, an Anesthesiologist is a medical doctor (MD) with extensive postgraduate specialty training (typically 5+ years after medical school) covering all aspects of anesthesia, critical care, and pain management. They lead the anesthesia care team. Other professionals, like respiratory therapists or specialized nurses, may assist under the direct supervision of the Anesthesiologist.
- 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.
1200 Dufferin Cres, Department of Anesthesia
Nanaimo, BC V9S 2B7
Phone: (250) 755-7691
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Chahal 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/377436/Chahal%2CRajvir