What does an Anesthesia Technician do?
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Anesthesia technicians are responsible for preparing and maintaining equipment used during surgery. This includes setting up the anesthesia machine, monitoring patients' vital signs, and ensuring that the operating room is ready for surgery.
Anesthesia Technician job duties include:
- Assist in the administration of anesthesia under the direction of a licensed anesthetist
- Prepare and maintain anesthesia equipment
- Monitor patient vital signs during procedures
- Keep accurate records of patient care
- Respond to emergency situations
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment
- Stock supplies and medications
- Transport patients to and from the operating room
- Assist with patient positioning and preparation for surgery
Anesthesia Technician Job Requirements
Anesthesia technicians typically have an associate's degree in applied science or a related field. They may also have certification from the American Society of Anesthesia Technicians and Associates. Anesthesia technicians must have experience working with anesthesia equipment and monitoring patients during surgery.
Anesthesia Technician Skills
- Anesthesia
- Analgesia
- Airway management
- Ventilation
- Circulatory support
- Fluid management
- Electrocardiography
- Invasive monitoring
- Pharmacology
- Resuscitation
- Emergency medicine
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How to become an Anesthesia Technician
The anesthesia technician is a medical professional who works with anesthesiologists to provide care for patients before, during and after surgery. Anesthesia technicians are responsible for preparing and maintaining the equipment and supplies used during anesthesia, as well as monitoring patients' vital signs.
To become an anesthesia technician, you will need to complete a formal education program and earn certification from the American Society of Anesthesia Technicians and Technologists (ASATT). Once you have completed your education and earned certification, you will be eligible to take the National Certification Examination for Anesthesia Technicians (NCEAT).
Formal education programs in anesthesia technology are typically offered at the certificate or associate's degree level. Certificate programs typically last one year, while associate's degree programs can take up to two years to complete. During your coursework, you will take classes in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical terminology and math. You will also receive clinical training in an operating room setting.
Upon completion of your formal education program, you will need to pass the NCEAT exam to earn national certification as an anesthesia technician. Once you are certified, you will need to maintain your certification through continuing education courses and recertification every four years.
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