Dr. Priya Maheshwari is a talented, multidimensional, vibrant anaesthetist whose passion for her profession is matched only by her love for life outside the operating room. She is a senior anesthesia consultant at Gupta Orthopaedic Hospital in Bhilwara, Rajasthan. Known for her bubbly personality and creative spirit, she approaches every challenge with energy and a can-do attitude.
When she's away from OT, you’ll find her exploring the world, singing her favorite songs, and learning new skills. With a blend of medical expertise and artistic flair, she has a fulfilling career and a zest for life. Do they all go hand in hand? "Yes, they do" she replies enthusiastically.
In this edition of Docscopy Dr. Swati Sharma from MedBound Times talks to Dr. Priya Maheshwari about her journey, inspirations, struggles, and achievements.
Join us as we delve into her journey, inspirations, and the unique perspective she brings to life. Here we bring you excerpts from her interview.
Dr. Swati Sharma: Please tell us something about yourself?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: I am an anesthetist who has graduated from RNT medical college, Udaipur. I did my postgraduation from SMS medical college Jaipur before I joined my husband in Gupta Orthopedic Hospital at Bhilwara. I am also a President of Anesthetists Association in Bhilwara.
Dr. Swati Sharma: As humans, we look beyond our visions and are often inspired by stories. What is your inspirational story to pursue anesthesiology?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: In the first year of MBBS, while having dinner at the hostel mess I overheard a PG senior narrate to her friends that they had done laser surgery in the ENT department that day. LASER if you remember was trending then. She dealt with a complication of laser surgery very efficiently and saved the life of the patient. I had goosebumps listening to that. It was my first-ever introduction to Anaesthesia and that stayed, with me as my inspirational story.
Dr. Swati Sharma: What does a typical day in the hospital look like for an anaesthetist?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: Gradually everything becomes routine, every day is a roller coaster ride. From the moment we intubate a patient to his recovery we work incessantly. Every patient responds differently to anesthesia, and we learn new things daily.
Dr. Swati Sharma: What precautions do you take to minimize risks associated with anaesthesia?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: Every branch has to deal with complications, but Anaesthesia is the riskiest. If a patient has complications, we have to weigh the complications against the emergency. PAC (Pre Anaesthetic Checkup) helps us determine our action plan.
Dr. Swati Sharma: After a long day at work, what do you like to do to unwind yourself?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: To be honest, I’m naturally outgoing and love immersing myself in extracurricular activities. Irrespective of what I do socialize, explore new hobbies, or participate in group events, I enjoy staying active and connected with others. These experiences bring me joy enrich my soul and keep life exciting.
After a long day at work, I recharge by indulging in activities that help me to relax and clear my mind.
Singing is one of my passions, and I love karaoke. I play the keyboard, which adds to my musical adventures. You might be surprised to know that I’ve recently taken up horseback riding, it has quickly become a new hobby. Every day, as I go about my life, I find plenty of exciting things to keep me busy and fulfilled.
Dr. Swati Sharma: What do you find most rewarding about your job?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: I love my work, so it never seems like a job. But seriously with anaesthesia, I have complete control over my time. My work schedule allows me to spend my time in interesting and creative ways.
Dr. Swati Sharma: How do you stay calm and composed to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: You have the best results when your inner and outer worlds are in harmony. The stress we experience daily as doctors and individuals can drive us nuts. I am blessed to be in an age when we know so much about mind-body dimensions. For that inner world and equilibrium, I do Yoga.
I am not an ideal person, and I idle away too. I enjoy outings with my family, friends, and all I care about. I love to travel and count my blessings every moment of my life.
Dr. Swati Sharma: What is the most underappreciated aspect of an anaesthetist’s role?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: Most people think anaesthetists are doctors who make people sleep. We go so much beyond that, we meticulously assess the patient's medical history, manage pre-existing conditions, and create a tailored anaesthesia plan to minimize risks. During surgery, anesthetists are responsible for monitoring vital signs, and medications, to ensure stability.
We help manage pain, address complications, and oversee recovery in the postoperative phase. Our ability to anticipate and respond to emergencies under immense pressure is a cornerstone of successful surgical outcomes. Quick decision-making and holistic care make us indispensable.
Dr. Swati Sharma: How has the practice of anaesthesiology changed in recent years?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: Pain management is an emerging field in anaesthesia. Anaesthetists play a vital role as pain physicians by diagnosing and treating acute and chronic pain. We manage conditions like back pain, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia using advanced techniques such as nerve blocks, epidural injections, and spinal cord stimulation.
Dr. Swati Sharma: What’s the most challenging part of being an anesthetist?
Dr. Priya Maheshwari: The most challenging part is safeguarding a patient’s life during critical moments while managing unpredictable situations making split-second decisions to address sudden complications, such as adverse reactions, unstable vital signs, or unexpected surgical events. We even need physical and mental toughness to remain composed.
What would Dr Priya Maheshwari be if she was not a doctor? The response amazed me: “I would be a counselor or a teacher. In that way, I would have contributed so much to society. As the President of the Bhilwara Society of Anaesthetists, we conduct CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) awareness programs in schools and parks, emphasizing the importance of lifesaving skills. I believe that if even one life is saved through the knowledge we impart, all our efforts become meaningful and worthwhile. Teaching these critical skills empowers individuals and strengthens the fabric of our community.”
MedBound Times expresses sincere gratitude to Dr. Priya Maheshwari for sharing her valuable insights on our platform.