The Anaesthesiologist's Guide to Prompt Engineering: Your AI Co-Pilot for Everything Beyond the OR

If you're an anaesthesiologist reading this, chances are you've already experimented with ChatGPT, Claude, or another AI assistant. Maybe you asked it to summarise a paper, draft an email, or explain a concept. And maybe you got... something. Useful? Sometimes. Frustratingly vague? Often.

Here's the thing: AI tools are incredibly powerful, but they're only as good as the instructions you give them. It's like handing the airway to a junior trainee without a proper briefing—you might get lucky, or you might get chaos.

That's where prompt engineering comes in.

Think of it as the art and science of talking to AI in a way that gets you exactly what you need—consistently, safely, and efficiently. And for anaesthesiologists juggling clinical work, teaching, research, admin, and life, mastering this skill can be transformative.

What is Prompt Engineering (and Why Should You Care)?

Prompt engineering is simply the practice of crafting clear, structured instructions that guide AI to produce high-quality, relevant outputs.

Bad prompt: "Help me with a handover."

Good prompt: "I'm handing over a 68-year-old post-op patient to PACU after an emergency laparotomy. Intraop hypotension managed with fluids and noradrenaline. Create an SBAR handover script, list top 5 watch-outs, and suggest escalation triggers."

The difference? Specificity, context, and structure.

Why it matters for anaesthesiologists:

• Time savings: Get usable outputs in one go instead of endless back-and-forth

• Consistency: Reproducible quality across tasks (handovers, teaching scripts, QI plans)

• Safety: Built-in verification steps and "red flags" reminders

• Global applicability: Works across settings, countries, and resource levels

• Non-clinical leverage: Frees up mental bandwidth for what actually requires your expertise

  
  

The 5-Part Prompt Template: Your Universal Framework

Every great prompt has five components. Copy this structure and adapt it to any task:

1) Role: [who you are / perspective]
2) Scenario: [setting + constraints + key facts; de-identified]
3) Task: [what you want produced]
4) Output format: [exact sections; length limits]
5) Constraints: Model-agnostic; globally applicable; brand-agnostic; avoid unsafe dosing; include "verify locally"

Example in action:

1) Role: You are assisting an anaesthesia trainee preparing for tomorrow's list.
2) Scenario: Three cases: laparoscopic cholecystectomy, hip replacement, emergency appendectomy. Junior trainee, first time on-call solo.
3) Task: Create a preparation checklist with reasoning, common pitfalls, and questions to ask the consultant.
4) Output format: (a) Checklist (b) Why (1-2 lines per item) (c) Pitfalls (d) Questions for supervisor (e) Verify locally.
5) Constraints: No dosing; supportive tone; globally applicable.

This structure forces the AI to think like you need it to think—and it works across every AI model (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc.).

The Complete Non-Clinical Prompt Library for Anaesthesiologists

Below is a comprehensive, ready-to-use library of prompts covering everything except day-to-day clinical decision-making.

These are designed to be:

• Model-agnostic (works with any AI)

• Globally applicable (no local policy assumptions)

• Safety-first (built-in verification reminders)

• Succinct (respects your time)

  
  

How to Use This Library

1. Copy the prompt that matches your need

2. Fill in the bracketed fields with your specific context

3. Paste into any AI tool (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc.)

4. Review the output and verify locally (policies, formulary, escalation pathways)

5. Always de-identify patient information

   
   

📚 THE COMPLETE PROMPT LIBRARY

META-00: Universal 5-Part Prompt Template (copy/paste wrapper)

1) Role: [who you are / perspective].
2) Scenario: [setting + constraints + key facts; de-identified].
3) Task: [what you want produced].
4) Output format: [exact sections; length limits].
5) Constraints: Model-agnostic; globally applicable; brand-agnostic; avoid unsafe dosing; include "verify locally".

META: Prompt Quality Assurance + Role Wrappers

META-QA-01: Clarifying questions first (force minimal assumptions)

Best for: Complex requests where you're not sure what info the AI needs

Inputs needed: Topic area

1) Role: You are an assistant to an anaesthesia clinician.
2) Scenario: I am about to ask for help with: [topic].
3) Task: Ask up to 7 clarifying questions that materially change the advice/output; then list what you will assume if unanswered.
4) Output format: (a) Questions (b) Assumptions (c) What you can produce next.
5) Constraints: Succinct; globally applicable; no guideline-specific thresholds.

META-QA-02: "Verify locally" + red flags enforcement

Best for: Any output that needs safety checks

Inputs needed: Your request

1) Role: You are a safety-focused assistant.
2) Scenario: Content requested: [paste request].
3) Task: Produce the requested content but add a dedicated "Red flags / must-escalate" section and a "Verify locally" checklist.
4) Output format: (a) Main content (b) Red flags (c) Verify locally checklist (5 items).
5) Constraints: No dosing; no brand names; concise.

META-QA-03: Placeholder for local policy insertion

Best for: Creating shareable templates for your department

Inputs needed: Topic (e.g., fasting policy, handover standard)

1) Role: You are helping create globally shareable material.
2) Scenario: Topic: [e.g., fasting policy, anticoag management, handover standard].
3) Task: Draft a template that is complete but uses explicit placeholders for local policy items.
4) Output format: Sections with placeholders labeled: [LOCAL POLICY HERE], [LOCAL CONTACT], [LOCAL THRESHOLD].
5) Constraints: Avoid inventing institutional details; keep template usable worldwide.

META-QA-04: Verification checklist (end every output this way)

Best for: Adding a safety layer to any AI output

Inputs needed: Draft content

1) Role: You are an assistant ensuring safe use of AI outputs.
2) Scenario: Draft content: [paste].
3) Task: Append a short verification checklist relevant to the content.
4) Output format: "Before using this, confirm:" + 6 checkbox bullets.
5) Constraints: Generic, global, non-legal, non-dosing.

META-ROLE-01: Trainee wrapper

Best for: Educational outputs for juniors

Inputs needed: Learning goal, level

1) Role: You are assisting an anaesthesia trainee preparing for: [tomorrow's list/on-call/simulation].
2) Scenario: Learner level: [junior/senior]; goals: [what to improve].
3) Task: Tailor the output to be educational with brief reasoning, pitfalls, and what to ask the supervisor.
4) Output format: (a) Plan/checklist (b) Why (1–2 lines) (c) Pitfalls (d) Questions for supervisor (e) Verify locally.
5) Constraints: Succinct; no dosing; supportive tone.

META-ROLE-02: On-call consultant wrapper

Best for: Remote supervision scenarios

Inputs needed: Situation, urgency level

1) Role: You are assisting the on-call anaesthesia consultant supervising juniors remotely.
2) Scenario: Information quality: [limited/adequate]; urgency: [low/medium/high].
3) Task: Produce a supervision-focused response: what to do now, what to check, what to delegate, when to attend in person.
4) Output format: (a) Immediate actions (b) Questions to ask junior (c) Delegation/roles (d) Attend-in-person triggers (e) Verify locally.
5) Constraints: No dosing; global; decisive but safe.

META-ROLE-03: Researcher/IRB wrapper

Best for: Research protocol drafting

Inputs needed: Study type, setting

1) Role: You are assisting an anaesthesia researcher drafting IRB-ready materials.
2) Scenario: Study type: [observational/interventional]; setting: [single/multi-center]; data: [available/limited].
3) Task: Draft text that is ethical, privacy-aware, and clearly structured.
4) Output format: (a) Plain-language summary (b) Methods scaffold (c) Risks/mitigation (d) Data handling (e) Open questions.
5) Constraints: No fabricated citations; no jurisdiction-specific claims; global.

1) Communication & Teamwork (OR, ICU, Ward)

COMMS-01: Pre-op expectation setting with surgeon (plan + contingencies)

Best for: Complex cases requiring surgical alignment

Inputs needed: Procedure, patient risks, constraints

1) Role: You are the anaesthesia clinician aligning with the surgeon pre-op.
2) Scenario: Procedure: [procedure]; patient risks: [key risks]; constraints: [time/blood/ICU bed/equipment].
3) Task: Prepare a concise expectation-setting discussion to align on plan and contingencies.
4) Output format: (a) 60-sec script (b) 5 key questions (c) 5 "if-then" contingency agreements (d) shared goals (e) documentation line.
5) Constraints: Global; brand-agnostic; no dosing.

COMMS-02: Structured handover (SBAR/I-PASS) to PACU/ICU/ward

Best for: Post-op handovers

Inputs needed: Case type, key events, current status

1) Role: You are handing over anaesthesia care to [PACU/ICU/ward].
2) Scenario: Case: [type]; key events: [events]; current status: [airway/hemodynamics/pain].
3) Task: Produce a structured handover script and checklist.
4) Output format: (a) SBAR or I-PASS script (b) top 5 watch-outs (c) monitoring priorities (d) escalation triggers (e) one-line summary for notes.
5) Constraints: No dosing; concise; globally applicable.

COMMS-03: Escalation message (call consultant / phone / WhatsApp)

Best for: Urgent escalation to senior

Inputs needed: Problem, actions taken, current status

1) Role: You are a clinician escalating a concern to a senior.
2) Scenario: Problem: [issue]; what's been done: [actions]; current vitals/status: [brief].
3) Task: Draft a concise escalation message suitable for phone/text.
4) Output format: (a) 6-line message max (b) 3 must-include data points (c) 3 questions for senior (d) what you need (e) fallback if unreachable.
5) Constraints: Global; neutral tone; no blame; no dosing.

COMMS-04: Closed-loop communication + role assignment (CRM language)

Best for: Crisis management

Inputs needed: Event type, team present

1) Role: You are team lead during an acute event.
2) Scenario: Event: [e.g., sudden hypotension, desaturation]; team: [roles present]; noise level: [high].
3) Task: Generate closed-loop commands and role assignments for the first 60–90 seconds.
4) Output format: (a) role assignment lines (b) priority commands (c) confirmation phrases (d) "time-out" reassessment script (e) debrief starter line.
5) Constraints: No drug doses; universally usable phrases; succinct.

COMMS-05: Managing conflict respectfully (safety boundary under pressure)

Best for: Pressure to proceed despite safety concerns

Inputs needed: Pressure statement, safety concern

1) Role: You are the anaesthesia clinician facing pressure to proceed despite concern.
2) Scenario: Pressure statement: [quote]; safety concern: [concern]; stakeholders: [surgeon/manager].
3) Task: Produce respectful language to hold the boundary and propose solutions.
4) Output format: (a) 3 boundary phrases (b) 3 solution-bridging phrases (c) escalation script (d) de-escalation phrases (e) neutral documentation line.
5) Constraints: Global; professional; non-accusatory.

COMMS-06: Pre-list huddle for a complex slate

Best for: Morning briefings

Inputs needed: Case list, constraints

1) Role: You are leading the anaesthesia pre-list huddle.
2) Scenario: List: [cases]; constraints: [staff/equipment/ICU beds/blood].
3) Task: Create a huddle plan that anticipates bottlenecks and risk.
4) Output format: (a) agenda (b) role allocation prompts (c) per-case risk flags (d) readiness checklist (e) escalation plan.
5) Constraints: Global; brand-agnostic; concise.

COMMS-07: PACU handover after intraop complication (sensitive + structured)

Best for: Handover after adverse event

Inputs needed: Case type, complication, current status

1) Role: You are handing over after an intraop complication.
2) Scenario: Case: [type]; complication: [event]; current status: [brief].
3) Task: Create a calm, structured handover focused on ongoing risk.
4) Output format: (a) SBAR handover (b) top 5 watch-outs (c) immediate priorities (non-dosing) (d) call triggers (e) documentation one-liner.
5) Constraints: No blame; no dosing; global.

COMMS-08: Communicating unplanned ICU admission to family

Best for: Family conversations

Inputs needed: Reason for ICU, uncertainty level

1) Role: You are speaking to family after surgery.
2) Scenario: Unplanned ICU admission due to: [reason]; uncertainty: [low/medium/high].
3) Task: Draft a compassionate, plain-language explanation with next steps.
4) Output format: (a) empathy opening (b) explanation (c) what is being done now (d) what to expect next 6–12h (e) invite questions + teach-back.
5) Constraints: No promises; culturally neutral; global.

COMMS-09: Late add-on high-risk case phone call to surgeon

Best for: Time-critical add-ons

Inputs needed: Procedure, patient risks, time pressure

1) Role: You are preparing for a time-critical add-on case.
2) Scenario: [procedure] added late; patient risks: [key risks]; time pressure: [details].
3) Task: Create a concise call script to align on timing and prerequisites.
4) Output format: (a) 30–60 sec script (b) 5 must-ask questions (c) prerequisites checklist (d) contingency triggers (e) documentation line.
5) Constraints: No dosing; brand-agnostic; global.

2) Patient Education, Counseling & Shared Decision-Making

PTED-01: Consent script (plain language + teach-back)

Best for: Pre-op consent conversations

Inputs needed: Technique, patient context

1) Role: You are explaining anaesthesia to a patient.
2) Scenario: Technique: [GA/spinal/epidural/regional/sedation]; patient context: [age/comorbidities/anxiety].
3) Task: Write a consent explanation that is clear and balanced.
4) Output format: (a) what it is (b) benefits (c) common side effects (d) serious but rare risks (no numbers) (e) 3 teach-back questions.
5) Constraints: <200 words; global; no legal/jurisdiction specifics.

PTED-02: Addressing a specific fear (succinct)

Best for: Anxious patients

Inputs needed: Specific fear

1) Role: You are counseling a worried patient.
2) Scenario: Fear: [awareness/paralysis/needle pain/PONV/pain]; setting: [elective/emergency].
3) Task: Provide a short response that validates, explains, and reassures without overpromising.
4) Output format: (a) empathy line (b) brief explanation (c) what we do to reduce risk (d) what the patient can do (e) invite questions.
5) Constraints: Max 120 words; global; no statistics.

PTED-03: Teach-back question builder

Best for: Confirming understanding

Inputs needed: Topic explained, patient factors

1) Role: You are ensuring informed consent comprehension.
2) Scenario: Topic explained: [topic]; patient factors: [language/literacy/anxiety].
3) Task: Generate teach-back questions that test understanding without sounding like an exam.
4) Output format: (a) 5 teach-back questions (b) what "good understanding" sounds like (c) red flags for misunderstanding (d) re-explanation tips (e) documentation sentence.
5) Constraints: Respectful; culturally neutral; concise.

PTED-04: Counseling special groups (plain language)

Best for: OSA, obesity, elderly, pregnancy

Inputs needed: Patient group, planned anaesthesia

1) Role: You are counseling a patient in a special group.
2) Scenario: Group: [OSA/obesity/elderly/pregnancy]; planned anaesthesia: [type]; key concern: [e.g., breathing, nausea, baby].
3) Task: Create a plain-language explanation of what changes and why.
4) Output format: (a) key risks in simple terms (b) what we will do differently (c) what patient should tell us/bring (d) postop expectations (e) 3 teach-back questions.
5) Constraints: No local policy; no dosing; globally applicable.

PTED-05: Pre-op fasting + medication instructions (generic, safe)

Best for: Pre-op patient instructions

Inputs needed: Surgery time, key meds, comorbidities

1) Role: You are providing pre-op instructions.
2) Scenario: Surgery time: [morning/afternoon/unknown]; meds: [key meds classes]; comorbidities: [diabetes/HTN/etc.].
3) Task: Draft generic instructions with clear placeholders for local policy.
4) Output format: (a) fasting guidance with [LOCAL POLICY HERE] placeholders (b) meds list: continue/hold/ask clinician (c) day-of-surgery checklist (d) red flags to call hospital (e) documentation phrase.
5) Constraints: Avoid specific drug holds; emphasize "confirm with your team"; global.

PTED-06: Discharge / postop guidance (global, non-prescriptive)

Best for: Day surgery discharge

Inputs needed: Setting, procedure type, risks

1) Role: You are writing postoperative advice after anaesthesia.
2) Scenario: Setting: [day surgery/inpatient]; procedure type: [type]; risks: [OSA/elderly/etc.].
3) Task: Create a short discharge guidance note.
4) Output format: (a) what to expect (b) activity/safety advice (c) nausea/pain general advice (non-dosing) (d) urgent red flags (e) follow-up placeholders.
5) Constraints: <180 words; no local numbers; global.

PTED-07: Difficult consent with language barrier + time pressure

Best for: Consent challenges

Inputs needed: Case urgency, interpreter availability

1) Role: You are obtaining consent with a language barrier.
2) Scenario: Case urgency: [elective/urgent]; interpreter: [available/not]; patient understanding: [level].
3) Task: Create a safe consent approach and documentation wording.
4) Output format: (a) stepwise approach checklist (b) minimum information set (c) teach-back via interpreter (d) escalation options (e) documentation template lines.
5) Constraints: No legal specifics; global; succinct.

3) Documentation & Medico-Legal Robustness

DOC-01: High-quality pre-anaesthesia assessment note (template)

Best for: Pre-op documentation

Inputs needed: Case type, key risks, plan

1) Role: You are documenting a pre-anaesthesia assessment.
2) Scenario: Case: [elective/emergency] [procedure]; key risks: [list]; plan: [overview].
3) Task: Create a concise, defensible note template with example phrasing.
4) Output format: Headings + short example lines for: assessment, risks discussed, plan, alternatives, postop disposition, questions answered.
5) Constraints: Global; no guideline thresholds; no dosing.

DOC-02: Post-op note + PACU orders phrasing (non-dosing)

Best for: Post-anaesthesia documentation

Inputs needed: Case type, key events, concerns

1) Role: You are writing the immediate post-anaesthesia note and PACU priorities.
2) Scenario: Case: [type]; events: [key events]; concerns: [airway/hemodynamics/pain].
3) Task: Draft crisp note wording and a PACU priority checklist (non-dosing).
4) Output format: (a) narrative summary (3–5 lines) (b) problems list (c) PACU monitoring priorities (d) escalation triggers (e) pending tasks.
5) Constraints: No medication doses; global.

DOC-03: Incident documentation framework (facts + timeline)

Best for: Adverse events, near misses

Inputs needed: Facts, outcome

1) Role: You are documenting an adverse event/near miss.
2) Scenario: Facts (bullets): [paste]; outcome: [brief].
3) Task: Convert facts into neutral, structured documentation.
4) Output format: (a) timeline (b) actions taken (c) communications (d) patient response (e) plan + follow-up.
5) Constraints: No blame; no speculation; de-identified; global.

DOC-04: Difficult consent documentation (capacity/refusal)

Best for: Capacity concerns, refusal

Inputs needed: Issue, supports available

1) Role: You are documenting a difficult consent situation.
2) Scenario: Issue: [capacity doubt/refusal/high anxiety]; supports: [family/interpreter/senior].
3) Task: Draft documentation lines that are respectful and complete.
4) Output format: (a) capacity/understanding assessment wording (b) info provided (c) patient's stated preference (d) escalation/second opinion (e) plan.
5) Constraints: Avoid legal claims; global; succinct.

DOC-05: SOP/policy wording support (template + placeholders)

Best for: Department policy drafting

Inputs needed: SOP topic, setting constraints

1) Role: You are drafting or revising a departmental SOP.
2) Scenario: SOP topic: [topic]; setting constraints: [resources].
3) Task: Create a usable SOP template that can be localized.
4) Output format: (a) purpose/scope (b) definitions (c) step-by-step workflow (d) roles/responsibilities (e) audit/metrics + [LOCAL POLICY HERE] placeholders.
5) Constraints: Global; brand-agnostic; concise.

DOC-06: Neutral internal safety report + systems recommendations

Best for: Safety reporting

Inputs needed: Event, location, outcome

1) Role: You are completing an internal safety report.
2) Scenario: Event: [what happened]; location: [OR/PACU/ICU]; outcome: [brief].
3) Task: Write a neutral report and propose system improvements.
4) Output format: (a) timeline (b) contributory factors headings (c) mitigations (d) immediate actions (e) 5 system-level recommendations.
5) Constraints: No blame; de-identified; global.

4) Teaching & Learning

TEACH-01: Viva/OSCE case generator (with rubric)

Best for: Exam preparation

Inputs needed: Topic, learner level

1) Role: You are an examiner creating an assessment.
2) Scenario: Topic/case: [topic]; learner level: [junior/senior].
3) Task: Generate a viva/OSCE station with model answers.
4) Output format: (a) stem (b) questions (progressive) (c) excellent answer elements (d) pitfalls (e) 10-point scoring rubric.
5) Constraints: No dosing; global; succinct.

TEACH-02: Micro-teaching script (5 minutes)

Best for: Bedside teaching

Inputs needed: Topic, audience level

1) Role: You are teaching juniors in theatre/PACU.
2) Scenario: Topic: [topic]; time: 5 minutes; audience: [level].
3) Task: Create a tight teaching script that improves performance.
4) Output format: (a) 3 objectives (b) 5 key points (c) 2 questions to ask learners (d) 2 common pitfalls (e) 30-sec summary.
5) Constraints: Global; avoid guideline-specific thresholds; concise.

TEACH-03: Simulation scenario + debrief (advocacy–inquiry)

Best for: Simulation training

Inputs needed: Theme, participants, environment

1) Role: You are designing a simulation for anaesthesia team training.
2) Scenario: Theme: [event]; participants: [roles]; environment: [OR/PACU].
3) Task: Create the scenario and a high-quality debrief guide.
4) Output format: (a) scenario stem (b) expected actions (c) likely errors (d) instructor prompts (e) debrief questions using advocacy–inquiry.
5) Constraints: No dosing; global; succinct.

TEACH-04: Flashcard generator (verification step built-in)

Best for: Spaced repetition learning

Inputs needed: Topic, learner level

1) Role: You are creating spaced-repetition flashcards.
2) Scenario: Topic: [physiology/pharm/equipment]; learner level: [level].
3) Task: Generate flashcards that test understanding (not trivia).
4) Output format: (a) 15 Q→A cards (b) 5 "why" cards (c) 5 clinical application cards (d) common confusions (e) verification reminder ("confirm locally for doses/policies").
5) Constraints: Avoid dosing unless user supplies; global; concise.

TEACH-05: Rotation goals + competency mapping + reflection

Best for: Training rotations

Inputs needed: Subspecialty, duration, current gaps

1) Role: You are an anaesthesia trainee planning a rotation.
2) Scenario: Rotation: [subspecialty]; duration: [weeks]; current gaps: [list].
3) Task: Create goals and a simple tracking/reflection system.
4) Output format: (a) 5 SMART goals (b) weekly focus plan (c) competency checklist (d) logbook prompts (e) end-of-rotation reflection questions.
5) Constraints: Globally applicable; succinct.

TEACH-06: MCQs/SAQs aligned to curriculum objectives

Best for: Assessment writing

Inputs needed: Topic, level, domain

1) Role: You are an educator writing questions.
2) Scenario: Topic: [topic]; level: [junior/senior]; domain: [safety/airway/etc.].
3) Task: Generate assessment items with rationales.
4) Output format: (a) 5 MCQs (single best) (b) answers (c) rationales (d) why distractors wrong (e) key learning point per question.
5) Constraints: No dosing unless provided; global.

TEACH-07: Case-of-the-week teaching post

Best for: Department teaching

Inputs needed: De-identified case, learning goal

1) Role: You are creating a de-identified teaching post for the department.
2) Scenario: Case summary: [paste de-identified]; learning goal: [goal].
3) Task: Turn it into a concise case-based learning post.
4) Output format: (a) case vignette (b) 3 discussion questions (c) "what we did" summary (d) key takeaways (5 bullets) (e) pitfalls and how to avoid.
5) Constraints: No identifiers; no guideline-specific thresholds; global.

5) Research, Academics & Writing

RES-01: Clinical problem → research questions (PICO + feasibility)

Best for: Research idea development

Inputs needed: Clinical problem, setting, population

1) Role: You are assisting an anaesthesia researcher.
2) Scenario: Clinical problem: [paste]; setting: [resource level]; population: [who].
3) Task: Convert into 3 PICO questions with feasible study plans.
4) Output format: For each: (a) PICO (b) suggested design (c) primary outcome (d) key confounders (e) feasibility risks + mitigation.
5) Constraints: No fabricated citations; global.

RES-02: Literature search strategy builder (database-agnostic)

Best for: Systematic reviews, literature searches

Inputs needed: Question, scope

1) Role: You are helping plan a literature search.
2) Scenario: Question: [question]; scope: [broad/narrow]; years: [if any].
3) Task: Create a search strategy and screening plan.
4) Output format: (a) keyword blocks + synonyms (b) inclusion criteria (c) exclusion criteria (d) 5 screening questions (e) data extraction fields.
5) Constraints: No database names required; global; succinct.

RES-03: Protocol drafting scaffold (IRB-friendly)

Best for: Research protocols

Inputs needed: Idea, design, sites, data sources

1) Role: You are assisting with a protocol first draft.
2) Scenario: Idea: [paste]; design: [obs/intervention]; sites: [#]; data: [sources].
3) Task: Produce a clean protocol scaffold.
4) Output format: (a) background (brief) (b) objectives/hypothesis (c) methods (participants/exposure/outcomes) (d) analysis plan (high-level) (e) ethics + data management.
5) Constraints: No regulatory specifics; no fabricated citations; global.

RES-04: Manuscript—structured abstract from bullets

Best for: Abstract writing

Inputs needed: Key points (background/methods/results)

1) Role: You are assisting with manuscript writing.
2) Scenario: Paste key points: [background/methods/results].
3) Task: Draft a structured abstract and list missing info.
4) Output format: (a) Background (b) Methods (c) Results (d) Conclusion (e) 5 clarification questions.
5) Constraints: Do not invent results; global; succinct.

RES-05: Discussion + limitations scaffold (balanced, credible)

Best for: Manuscript discussion sections

Inputs needed: Study summary, context

1) Role: You are assisting with the Discussion section.
2) Scenario: Study summary: [design + main finding]; context: [setting].
3) Task: Create a Discussion scaffold that is balanced and non-hyperbolic.
4) Output format: (a) main interpretation (b) comparison to prior work (placeholders) (c) strengths (d) limitations (e) implications + future research.
5) Constraints: No fabricated citations; global.

RES-06: Responding to reviewers (point-by-point)

Best for: Manuscript revisions

Inputs needed: Reviewer comments, manuscript topic

1) Role: You are assisting with a revision response letter.
2) Scenario: Reviewer comments: [paste]; manuscript topic: [topic].
3) Task: Draft polite responses and proposed edits.
4) Output format: (a) response letter intro (b) point-by-point table style (comment → response → change) (c) disagreements (if any) (d) revised text snippets placeholders (e) final checklist.
5) Constraints: Professional tone; no invented data; global.

RES-07: Journal selection + cover letter (criteria-driven)

Best for: Journal submission

Inputs needed: Manuscript type, audience, novelty

1) Role: You are helping select a journal and draft a cover letter.
2) Scenario: Manuscript type: [RCT/obs/QI/review]; audience: [who]; novelty: [low/med/high].
3) Task: Suggest journal selection criteria and draft a generic cover letter.
4) Output format: (a) selection criteria checklist (b) "fit" questions (c) cover letter draft (d) title suggestions (5) (e) ethical statements placeholders.
5) Constraints: Don't name journals unless I provide; global; succinct.

RES-08: Conference abstract/poster/storyline builder

Best for: Conference submissions

Inputs needed: Study points, format, time

1) Role: You are assisting with conference submission and presentation.
2) Scenario: Study points: [paste]; format: [abstract/poster/oral]; time: [minutes].
3) Task: Create a clear storyline and section-by-section draft.
4) Output format: (a) one-sentence message (b) abstract draft (c) poster section headings with bullet content (d) 6-slide narrative outline (e) likely questions + answers.
5) Constraints: No invented data; global; concise.

6) Quality Improvement, Audit & Patient Safety

QI-01: QI project idea generator (aligned to common metrics)

Best for: Starting QI projects

Inputs needed: Department goal, constraints

1) Role: You are assisting a QI lead in anaesthesia.
2) Scenario: Department goal: [goal]; constraints: [staff/time/data].
3) Task: Propose QI project options that are feasible.
4) Output format: (a) 5 project ideas (b) for each: aim, measures, change ideas (c) risks (d) data collection approach (e) first PDSA test.
5) Constraints: Global; no local policy assumptions.

QI-02: Define outcome/process/balancing measures (clean)

Best for: QI metrics

Inputs needed: QI aim, intervention

1) Role: You are helping define measures for a QI project.
2) Scenario: QI aim: [aim]; intervention: [idea].
3) Task: Propose robust measures and operational definitions.
4) Output format: (a) outcome measures (b) process measures (c) balancing measures (d) definitions/units (e) data sources + feasibility notes.
5) Constraints: Global; succinct.

QI-03: PDSA cycles + run chart plan

Best for: QI execution

Inputs needed: Project topic, baseline, constraints

1) Role: You are assisting with QI execution.
2) Scenario: Project: [topic]; baseline: [what you know]; constraints: [data frequency].
3) Task: Plan PDSA cycles and simple tracking.
4) Output format: (a) 3 PDSA cycles (b) predictions (c) data plan (d) run-chart interpretation tips (e) decision rules for scaling/abandoning.
5) Constraints: Global; no complex stats required.

QI-04: Audit tool + sampling plan + dashboard sketch

Best for: Clinical audits

Inputs needed: Audit topic, timeframe, resources

1) Role: You are helping run an audit.
2) Scenario: Audit topic: [topic]; timeframe: [dates]; resources: [who collects].
3) Task: Create an audit pack that is easy to execute.
4) Output format: (a) inclusion/exclusion (b) sampling plan (c) data collection table (d) dashboard metrics (e) presentation summary template.
5) Constraints: Global; minimal viable; concise.

QI-05: RCA / fishbone / 5-Whys (systems-focused)

Best for: Root cause analysis

Inputs needed: Event, known facts

1) Role: You are facilitating a systems-focused analysis.
2) Scenario: Event: [event]; known facts: [bullets].
3) Task: Produce RCA artifacts and system actions.
4) Output format: (a) 5-Whys (b) fishbone categories + factors (c) latent conditions (d) prioritized action list (5) (e) measures to confirm improvement.
5) Constraints: No blame; de-identified; global.

QI-06: Cognitive aid creation/check (usability)

Best for: Emergency checklists

Inputs needed: Emergency topic, users

1) Role: You are helping draft or review a cognitive aid.
2) Scenario: Emergency topic: [e.g., anaphylaxis, MH]; users: [OR team].
3) Task: Create or improve a short cognitive aid focused on usability.
4) Output format: (a) purpose (b) first-60-seconds actions (c) role allocation (d) do-not-miss reminders (e) usability checklist (layout/wording/testing).
5) Constraints: No dosing; global; brand-agnostic.

7) Operations, Workflow & Efficiency

OPS-01: OR list planning (sequencing + turnaround + readiness)

Best for: List coordination

Inputs needed: Case list, constraints, priority

1) Role: You are coordinating anaesthesia coverage for an OR list.
2) Scenario: List: [cases]; constraints: [staff/equipment/ICU/blood]; priority: [efficiency/safety].
3) Task: Suggest sequencing and readiness steps to reduce delays safely.
4) Output format: (a) proposed order + rationale (b) readiness checklist per case (c) bottlenecks + mitigations (d) huddle points (e) escalation plan.
5) Constraints: Global; brand-agnostic; concise.

OPS-02: Resource checklist (room setup / carts / block room)

Best for: Setup checklists

Inputs needed: Area, activity

1) Role: You are preparing a resource checklist.
2) Scenario: Area: [block room/OR/PACU]; activity: [regional day/airway list].
3) Task: Create a practical setup checklist with "must-have" vs "nice-to-have".
4) Output format: (a) must-have (b) nice-to-have (c) daily checks (d) restock triggers (e) owner assignment template.
5) Constraints: No brand names; global.

OPS-03: Staffing/rostering heuristics (fair + safe)

Best for: Rota planning

Inputs needed: Staff mix, coverage needs, constraints

1) Role: You are assisting with rota planning.
2) Scenario: Staff mix: [numbers/skill levels]; coverage needs: [OR/ICU/on-call]; constraints: [fatigue rules/local norms].
3) Task: Propose rostering heuristics and a fairness checklist.
4) Output format: (a) principles (b) risk flags for unsafe coverage (c) allocation heuristics (d) handover coverage plan (e) fairness checks.
5) Constraints: Don't cite laws; use placeholders for local rules; global.

OPS-04: Pre-op clinic triage rules (localizable)

Best for: Pre-op clinic design

Inputs needed: Patient categories, resources

1) Role: You are designing pre-op clinic triage.
2) Scenario: Patient categories: [elective]; resources: [clinic slots/tests].
3) Task: Create triage rules and scripts with local placeholders.
4) Output format: (a) triage categories (b) referral triggers (c) script for patient instructions (d) data fields to capture (e) [LOCAL POLICY HERE] placeholders.
5) Constraints: Global; adaptable; concise.

OPS-05: Reducing delays (Pareto + quick tests)

Best for: Efficiency improvement

Inputs needed: Common delay reasons, baseline

1) Role: You are leading an efficiency improvement effort.
2) Scenario: Common delay reasons: [list]; baseline: [what's measured].
3) Task: Propose high-leverage interventions and a quick test plan.
4) Output format: (a) top 5 interventions (b) expected mechanism (c) measures (d) 2-week test plan (e) sustainment plan.
5) Constraints: Global; pragmatic; concise.

8) Leadership, Management & Governance

LEAD-01: Meeting agenda + minutes + action tracker

Best for: Department meetings

Inputs needed: Topic, attendees, time

1) Role: You are chairing a departmental meeting.
2) Scenario: Topic: [topic]; attendees: [roles]; time: [minutes].
3) Task: Create agenda, minute template, and action tracker.
4) Output format: (a) agenda with timeboxes (b) decision points (c) minutes template (d) action log (owner/date/metric) (e) follow-up email draft.
5) Constraints: Global; concise.

LEAD-02: Policy/protocol drafting + revision checklist

Best for: Policy development

Inputs needed: Document topic, problem, constraints

1) Role: You are revising a department policy/protocol.
2) Scenario: Document: [topic]; problem: [why revise]; constraints: [resources].
3) Task: Draft structure and a revision/approval checklist.
4) Output format: (a) proposed sections (b) change log template (c) stakeholder review list (d) implementation plan (e) audit plan.
5) Constraints: Global; placeholders for local governance.

LEAD-03: Business case (equipment/staffing/service)

Best for: Investment proposals

Inputs needed: Request, current gap, constraints

1) Role: You are proposing a departmental investment.
2) Scenario: Request: [equipment/staffing/service]; current gap: [impact]; constraints: [budget].
3) Task: Draft a one-page business case.
4) Output format: (a) problem (b) proposed solution (c) expected benefits (quality/safety/efficiency) (d) implementation + training (e) evaluation metrics + risks/alternatives.
5) Constraints: No made-up costs; global; concise.

LEAD-04: Stakeholder mapping + change-management messaging

Best for: Change initiatives

Inputs needed: Change, affected groups, expected resistance

1) Role: You are leading a change initiative.
2) Scenario: Change: [what]; affected groups: [list]; resistance: [expected].
3) Task: Map stakeholders and craft messages tailored to each.
4) Output format: (a) stakeholder table (influence/interest/concerns) (b) engagement plan (c) key messages (d) FAQ responses (e) success metrics.
5) Constraints: Respectful, non-patronizing; global.

LEAD-05: Mentoring + feedback scripts (SBI/Pendleton options)

Best for: Mentoring conversations

Inputs needed: Situation, relationship

1) Role: You are mentoring a junior colleague.
2) Scenario: Situation: [performance issue or growth area]; relationship: [supervisor/mentor].
3) Task: Provide feedback scripts and a development plan.
4) Output format: (a) SBI script (b) Pendleton-style questions (c) agreed goals (d) support/resources (e) follow-up plan.
5) Constraints: Professional; kind; concise.

LEAD-06: Meeting Minutes Generator

Best for: Converting meeting notes/transcripts into structured, actionable minutes

Inputs needed: Raw notes, audio transcript, or AI bot output; meeting type/purpose

1) Role: You are an experienced anaesthesia department administrator skilled in creating clear, actionable meeting minutes.
2) Scenario: I have notes from a [type of meeting]. The notes are in the form of [audio transcript / handwritten notes / AI bot summary / mixed format].
3) Task: Convert these notes into professional meeting minutes.
4) Output format: (a) meeting details (date, attendees, apologies) (b) key discussion points (summarized) (c) decisions made (d) action items (who, what, by when) (e) matters arising for next meeting.
5) Constraints: Concise; focus on decisions and actions, not discussion details; flag any unclear action owners or deadlines

9) Professionalism, Wellbeing & Career Development

PROF-01: Reflective practice after difficult case/event

Best for: Post-event reflection

Inputs needed: De-identified event, what felt hard

1) Role: You are reflecting as an anaesthesia clinician.
2) Scenario: Event: [de-identified]; what felt hard: [brief].
3) Task: Guide a structured reflection that leads to action.
4) Output format: (a) what happened (b) thoughts/feelings (c) what went well (d) what to improve (e) 3 actions + support needed.
5) Constraints: Non-therapeutic; practical; concise.

PROF-02: Burnout self-check + coping plan structure (non-medical)

Best for: Wellbeing check-ins

Inputs needed: Symptoms, timeframe, work context

1) Role: You are supporting clinician wellbeing.
2) Scenario: I feel: [symptoms]; timeframe: [weeks]; work context: [on-call load].
3) Task: Provide a structured self-check and a practical support-seeking plan.
4) Output format: (a) self-check prompts (b) immediate low-effort steps (c) boundaries to consider (d) when to seek professional help (generic) (e) 2-week plan.
5) Constraints: Not medical advice; encourage local support resources; concise.

PROF-03: Time management system for exams/CPD

Best for: Study planning

Inputs needed: Goal, time available, weak areas

1) Role: You are coaching an anaesthesia clinician on study planning.
2) Scenario: Goal: [exam/CPD]; time available: [mins/day]; weak areas: [list].
3) Task: Create a sustainable system, not just a timetable.
4) Output format: (a) weekly structure (b) daily routine (c) spaced repetition plan (d) self-testing prompts (e) tracking template.
5) Constraints: Simple; realistic; concise.

PROF-04: CV/appraisal/portfolio narrative (impact-focused)

Best for: Professional documentation

Inputs needed: Achievement, evidence

1) Role: You are helping write professional documentation.
2) Scenario: Achievement: [teaching/QI/research/leadership]; evidence: [metrics/feedback].
3) Task: Convert into a strong, honest narrative.
4) Output format: (a) context (b) actions (c) outcomes (d) reflection (e) next steps.
5) Constraints: No exaggeration; professional; concise.

PROF-05: Fellowship/research statement/interview practice

Best for: Applications, interviews

Inputs needed: Role applied for, strengths, gaps

1) Role: You are an interview coach/editor.
2) Scenario: Role applied for: [position]; strengths: [list]; gaps: [list].
3) Task: Produce application narratives and interview practice.
4) Output format: (a) 150-word statement draft (b) 5 likely questions (c) STAR answer outlines (d) "tell me about yourself" version (e) improvement checklist.
5) Constraints: No false claims; concise; global.

10) Ethics, Equity & Culturally Competent Care

ETH-01: Capacity and consent exploration (structured)

Best for: Capacity assessments

Inputs needed: Concern, supports available

1) Role: You are assessing understanding and consent readiness.
2) Scenario: Concern: [capacity/anxiety/delirium/language]; supports: [family/interpreter].
3) Task: Provide a structured approach and documentation wording.
4) Output format: (a) questions to assess understanding (b) decision support steps (c) escalation triggers (d) respectful phrasing (e) documentation lines.
5) Constraints: Avoid legal specifics; global; concise.

ETH-02: DNR/ceilings-of-care perioperative conversation framework

Best for: Goals of care discussions

Inputs needed: Context, existing directives

1) Role: You are discussing perioperative goals of care.
2) Scenario: Context: [urgent/elective]; existing directives: [yes/no/unknown].
3) Task: Create a conversation framework and summary documentation.
4) Output format: (a) opening (b) values questions (c) explain periop risks/options (d) confirm decisions (e) documentation summary line + "verify local policy" note.
5) Constraints: Universal; non-legal; respectful.

ETH-03: Bias-aware language rewrite

Best for: Communication review

Inputs needed: Text to review

1) Role: You are reviewing clinical communication for respectful language.
2) Scenario: Text to review: [paste].
3) Task: Rewrite respectfully and flag potential bias.
4) Output format: (a) revised text (b) flagged phrases + why (c) alternatives (d) 3 bias-check questions (e) documentation tip.
5) Constraints: Non-judgmental tone; global.

ETH-04: Handling request for non-indicated procedure ethically

Best for: Ethical boundaries

Inputs needed: Request, reason given, risk

1) Role: You are responding to a request you believe is not indicated.
2) Scenario: Request: [what]; reason given: [why they want it]; risk: [concern].
3) Task: Provide a respectful refusal + alternatives + escalation.
4) Output format: (a) empathy (b) explanation (c) boundary (d) alternatives (e) documentation line + when to involve ethics/senior (generic).
5) Constraints: Global; non-legal; concise.

ETH-05: Confidentiality and sensitive disclosures (perioperative)

Best for: Privacy management

Inputs needed: Disclosure topic, patient preference, urgency

1) Role: You are managing sensitive information disclosed perioperatively.
2) Scenario: Disclosure: [topic]; patient preference: [who can know]; urgency: [risk level].
3) Task: Provide a privacy-respecting approach and communication plan.
4) Output format: (a) principles (b) questions to clarify (c) what to share/with whom (generic) (d) documentation guidance (e) escalation triggers.
5) Constraints: Avoid legal specifics; global; respectful.

11) Informatics & Data

DATA-01: Data collection sheet + variable definitions

Best for: QI/research data collection

Inputs needed: Topic, workflow, users

1) Role: You are designing a data collection form for QI/research.
2) Scenario: Topic: [topic]; workflow: [where collected]; users: [roles].
3) Task: Propose a minimal, high-quality data collection sheet.
4) Output format: (a) variables list (b) definitions/units (c) allowed values (d) missing-data rules (e) data quality checks.
5) Constraints: Global; minimal viable; concise.

DATA-02: De-identification checklist (cases/datasets)

Best for: Privacy protection

Inputs needed: Material type, audience

1) Role: You are ensuring privacy before sharing a case/dataset.
2) Scenario: Material type: [free text/table/images]; audience: [internal/public].
3) Task: Create a de-identification checklist and common pitfalls.
4) Output format: (a) direct identifiers (b) indirect identifiers (c) dates/locations rules (d) image pitfalls (e) final privacy checklist.
5) Constraints: Global; conservative; concise.

DATA-03: SQL/query brainstorming (if database exists)

Best for: Database queries

Inputs needed: Tables/fields, outcome of interest, timeframe

1) Role: You are assisting with database querying for audit/QI.
2) Scenario: Tables/fields I have: [paste]; outcome of interest: [outcome]; timeframe: [period].
3) Task: Propose query logic and data validation steps (no execution).
4) Output format: (a) required fields (b) join logic (plain English) (c) filters (d) data sanity checks (e) pitfalls/biases.
5) Constraints: No assumptions about schema; global; concise.

DATA-04: EHR smart phrases / note macros (adaptable)

Best for: EHR efficiency

Inputs needed: Use case, local style

1) Role: You are helping draft EHR macro text.
2) Scenario: Use case: [preop note/handover/consent summary]; local style: [brief/detailed].
3) Task: Draft macro text with placeholders.
4) Output format: (a) macro text (b) required placeholders (c) optional fields (d) red flags to include (e) "verify local policy" footer.
5) Constraints: No local contacts; global; concise.

DATA-05: Department "AI-safe use" guideline (starter)

Best for: AI governance

Inputs needed: Intended users, environments

1) Role: You are drafting a departmental guideline for AI usage.
2) Scenario: Intended users: [trainees/consultants]; environments: [OR/PACU/ICU/clinic].
3) Task: Draft a short, practical guideline.
4) Output format: (a) allowed use cases (b) prohibited use cases (c) privacy rules (d) verification expectations (e) governance + incident reporting.
5) Constraints: Global; model-agnostic; concise.

12) Education Products & Content Creation

EDU-01: Patient leaflet (one-page, readable)

Best for: Patient education materials

Inputs needed: Topic, audience, reading level

1) Role: You are drafting patient education material.
2) Scenario: Topic: [GA/spinal/epidural/nerve block]; audience: [general]; reading level: [basic].
3) Task: Write a one-page leaflet text.
4) Output format: (a) what to expect (b) benefits (c) common side effects (d) serious but rare risks (no numbers) (e) FAQs (3) + when to seek help (placeholders).
5) Constraints: <350 words; no local phone numbers; global.

EDU-02: Department newsletter/SOP summary (clear, short)

Best for: Internal communications

Inputs needed: Topic/update, audience

1) Role: You are creating department-facing communication.
2) Scenario: Topic/update: [policy/QI result/new workflow]; audience: [mixed].
3) Task: Create a clear summary that drives correct behavior.
4) Output format: (a) headline (b) what changed (c) why it matters (d) what to do now (e) where to find full policy [placeholder].
5) Constraints: Non-technical where possible; global; concise.

EDU-03: Infographic text (no images; copy-ready)

Best for: Posters, visual aids

Inputs needed: Topic, location

1) Role: You are drafting text for an infographic/poster.
2) Scenario: Topic: [handover standard/PONV prevention pathway/etc.]; location: [OR/PACU wall].
3) Task: Produce crisp, minimal text that fits a poster.
4) Output format: (a) title (b) 5 key bullets (c) "Do/Don't" (d) escalation triggers (e) footer with [LOCAL POLICY HERE].
5) Constraints: No dosing; brand-agnostic; global.

EDU-04: Journal club discussion guide (teaches appraisal)

Best for: Journal clubs

Inputs needed: Paper type, topic, audience

1) Role: You are leading journal club.
2) Scenario: Paper type: [RCT/cohort/review]; topic: [topic]; audience: [level].
3) Task: Create a discussion guide.
4) Output format: (a) 5-sentence summary template (b) validity questions (c) results interpretation prompts (d) applicability across resource settings (e) take-home points + practice change decision.
5) Constraints: No quoting paywalled text; global; concise.

EDU-05: Case-of-the-week content pack (post + questions + takeaways)

Best for: Recurring teaching features

Inputs needed: De-identified case, objective

1) Role: You are creating a recurring teaching feature.
2) Scenario: De-identified case: [paste]; objective: [objective].
3) Task: Create a reusable "case-of-the-week" pack.
4) Output format: (a) vignette (b) 5 questions (c) model answers (short) (d) pitfalls (e) key takeaways (5 bullets).
5) Constraints: De-identified; no dosing; global.

Final Thoughts: Your AI Co-Pilot Awaits

Prompt engineering isn't about becoming a tech expert—it's about learning to communicate clearly with a tool that can amplify your effectiveness across every non-clinical dimension of your work.

The prompts above are your starting point. Adapt them. Refine them. Share them with colleagues. Build on them.

And remember: AI is cognitive support, not a directive. Always verify locally. Always de-identify. Always think critically.

The future of anaesthesia isn't just about better drugs or devices—it's about better systems, better communication, and better use of our limited time and energy. Prompt engineering is one small but powerful way to get there.

What's your experience with AI tools? Have you tried prompt engineering?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—I'd love to hear what's working (and what's not) for you.

P.S. - If you found this useful, bookmark it, share it with your department, and let me know what other non-clinical challenges you'd like prompt templates for. This is a living resource—let's build it together.

About the Author: Dr. Murali Thondebhavi is an anaesthesiologist, educator, and host of the Luminary Lounge podcast. He writes about systems thinking, professional development, and the intersection of medicine and technology at muralithondebhavi.com.