Occupation Description Anesthesia technology is an allied health profession specifically focused on fundamental and advanced clinical procedures which assist the anesthesia provider in the safe and efficient care of patients under anesthesia. The Anesthesia Technologist works under the direction of an anesthesia provider as a vital member of the anesthesia care team. The Anesthesia Technologist is proficient in the acquisition, preparation, and application of various types of equipment required for the delivery of anesthesia care. Cognitive abilities involve knowledge of anatomy/physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and principles of anesthesia technology. Independent judgment is required for rapid response to the quickly changing circumstances in the patient care environment. The Anesthesia Technologist exhibits professionalism in patient and staff interactions.
Job Description Anesthesia technicians are responsible for preparing patients, equipment, and rooms for anesthesiologists, and for maintaining the equipment and supplies used in anesthesia. They prepare equipment including cleaning, sterilizing, and setting up anesthesia equipment, including machines, ventilators, and monitors. They also inspect, troubleshoot, and calibrate machines and equipment. and calibrating anesthesia machines and equipment. They ensure there are adequate supplies of anesthesia drugs, medical oxygen, nitrous oxide, and air, and assist with intubation and extubation, and with sterile procedures like blood transfusions. They help the anesthesiologist by reporting blood gas test results and entering information into patient charts. Anesthesia technicians should be comfortable in fast-paced environments and have strong critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. They should also be able to work in stressful situations and have an advanced understanding of HIPAA regulations.
Employment Characteristics Anesthesia technologists work in a variety of clinical settings, including hospital operating rooms, interventional and diagnostic radiology, labor and delivery units, intensive care units, emergency rooms, outpatient procedure suites, and ambulatory surgery centers.
Length. Accredited programs must ensure graduates have obtained an Associate Degree upon completion of the program. Programs can be 1-4 years in length, depending on the program design, required prerequisites, and student qualifications. Applicants must meet specific entrance/admission requirements of the institution sponsoring the program.
Certification/Registration Organization(s) American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians 6737 W Washington St., Ste 4210 Milwaukee, WI, 53214
Email: asatt@asatt.org Website: www.asatt.org
Careers/Curriculum Before embarking on your allied health journey, delve into the essential requirements of your desired profession. Understanding the certification, registration, or licensure process will help you select the right education program and confidently pursue your career goals. The following organization(s) can assist you in becoming an allied health professional: American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians 6737 W Washington St., Ste 4210 Milwaukee, WI, 53214 Email: asatt@asatt.org Website: www.asatt.org
American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians 6737 W Washington St., Ste 4210 Milwaukee, WI, 53214
Email: asatt@asatt.org Website: www.asatt.org
