Which team member is responsible for safely positioning the patient during a procedure?

In the operating room, the anesthesiologist plays a critical role in the safety and positioning of the patient, particularly in ensuring that the patient is adequately sedated, which is a vital aspect of safely positioning them. Proper positioning is essential to avoid pressure injuries and other complications during a surgical procedure. Anesthesiologists often assist with patient positioning to provide optimal access for the surgical team while ensuring that the patient’s airway is secure and that vital systems are monitored closely.

Other team members also play roles in positioning, but the anesthesiologist's responsibility includes maintaining the patient's safety and comfort during the induction of anesthesia and throughout the procedure. This makes their involvement key in determining the safest position for the patient to optimize both surgical exposure and physiological stability.