Dr. Tonia Quynh Giao Tauh – Anesthesiologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Tonia Quynh Giao Tauh is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in New Westminster, BC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring optimal patient safety and comfort. She adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her role involves comprehensive assessment and management of anesthesia, tailored to individual patient needs, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices.

Dr. Tauh graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2012 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. She has obtained key certifications in anesthetic techniques, airway management, and perioperative medicine, ensuring her skills are aligned with current clinical standards and innovations.

Her clinical philosophy is grounded in an evidence-based and informative approach, prioritizing patient safety, effective communication, and personalized care. She is committed to delivering high-quality anesthesia services in New Westminster and speaks fluent English, facilitating clear communication with her patients and colleagues.

• Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
• 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.
• Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
• Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
• 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. Tauh (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. Tauh primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Uptown and Massey Victory Heights neighborhoods of New Westminster. These facilities are situated near the Uptown Business District, offering convenient access for patients. The location is easily accessible via TransLink, with options including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Tauh? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Tauh 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. Tauh 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. Tauh from the team covering your procedure.

What about nausea and vomiting after anesthesia?

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can occur, but Anesthesiologists like Dr. Tauh 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 happens in the recovery room (PACU)?

After your procedure under general or regional anesthesia/sedation, you will be taken to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Specially trained nurses will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and level of consciousness as you wake up. They will also manage any immediate pain or nausea under the guidance of the anesthesia team.

330 Columbia St E, Royal Columbian Hospital
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7

Phone: (604) 520-4253

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Tauh 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/333788/Tauh%2CTonia