About
As a skilled Anesthesiologist, Dr. Vanessa Elizabeth Giesbrecht plays a crucial role in patient safety and comfort during the perioperative period. Practicing primarily at medical facilities in New Westminster, 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 a broad scope of anesthetic practices, with particular attention to patient-centered safety and comfort during procedures.
Dr. Giesbrecht graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 2017 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology. Her certifications include comprehensive training in perioperative medicine, airway management, and critical care, equipping her with the expertise necessary for safe and effective anesthetic care.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism, meticulous attention to safety, and a commitment to providing compassionate care. She is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards within her practice in New Westminster and communicates fluently in English to ensure clear and effective patient interactions.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- 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).
- Airway Management Expertise: Skilled management of the patient's airway, including intubation (placing a breathing tube) when necessary, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
- Management of Anesthetic Emergencies: Rapid diagnosis and treatment of critical events or complications that may arise during anesthesia.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Giesbrecht (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. Giesbrecht primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Uptown and Massey Victory Heights neighbourhoods of New Westminster. These facilities are conveniently situated near historic Downtown New Westminster, accessible via TransLink's SkyTrain Expo Line and bus routes. The area offers accessible public transportation options for patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Giesbrecht? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Giesbrecht 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. Giesbrecht 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. Giesbrecht 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.
- Is anesthesia safe?
- Modern anesthesia, administered by trained Anesthesiologists like Dr. Giesbrecht using advanced monitoring, is very safe for most patients. While all medical procedures have some risk, serious complications from anesthesia are rare. Your individual risk depends on your health, the type of surgery, and the type of anesthesia used. This will be carefully assessed and discussed with you before your procedure.
330 Columbia St E, Royal Columbian Hospital
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7
Phone: (604) 520-4253
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Giesbrecht 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/357837/Giesbrecht%2CVanessa