Pharmacists are responsible for filling patients’ prescriptions with the correct medicines. They tell them about the medicines and how to use them. Pharmacists work with doctors on choosing the right medicines, making sure they will work with other medications taken by the patient and explaining side effects.

Anesthesiologists are physicians who deliver pain-relieving medications during surgical procedures and monitor patients’ vital signs. In addition to working with patients in the operating room, anesthesiologists also provide pain relief services to people who suffer from chronic pain, during labor and delivery, and to patients in the intensive care unit. They work closely with surgeons and other physicians to formulate a treatment plan before, during and after a surgical procedure.

Nurse anesthetists prepare and administer anesthesia, monitor patient’s vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. CRNAs may assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, physicians or dentists.