The older anaesthetist

It is not possible to generalise about the way in which increasing years affect the performance of an individual anaesthetist. Physical and mental deterioration occurs as we age; most anaesthetists will be able to reach the normal retirement age of 65 years without that deterioration affecting their clinical practice. In some, however, decreasing competence and an unwillingness to embrace a continuing education regime may offer a direct threat to patient safety. Stress and ‘burnout’ are common in anesthetists; clinical depression can often be one of the factors involved. Continuing involvement in the on-call rota is a potent stressor. Airline pilots are required to retire at 60 years; the feasibility and desirability of applying this process to anaesthetists are discussed. Employers have a duty to provide employees with adequate and achievable demands in relation to their agreed hours of work and to have in place policies and procedures to offer adequate support.