Demystifying the Role of an Anesthesia Technician
Anesthesia technicians assist anesthesiologists in preparing equipment and monitoring patients throughout surgical procedures. They play a vital patient care role in the operating room. Read on for an in-depth look at this fast-paced allied health career.
Anesthesia Technician Career Path
Most anesthesia techs complete a 6-24 month anesthesia technology training program. These provide classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
With this background, anesthesia techs can find jobs in hospital operating rooms, ambulatory surgery centers, and other surgical settings. Experienced techs may pursue specialized certifications to advance.
Education and Skills Required
While on-the-job training is possible, many employers prefer candidates with formal anesthesia technician education. This provides a solid foundation in equipment, procedures, and patient monitoring. Strong technical aptitude, organization, critical thinking, and calm under pressure are essential.
Salary Insights for Anesthesia Technicians
According to PayScale.com, the average anesthesia technician salary is $51,808 as of March 2023. Those new to the career earn around $35,000, while experienced anesthesia techs with certifications can make over $65,000 per year.
Recommended Reading
- Anesthesia Tech Handbook - Provides fundamental knowledge for new anesthesia technicians including equipment and monitoring.
- Anesthesia Made Easy - Covers anesthesia fundamentals and procedures in an approachable way for students and new techs.
- ASATT Study Guide - Helpful guide for preparing for the ASATT national anesthesia technician certification exam.
Key Topics in Training Programs
Typical anesthesia technician curriculum covers:
- Operating room environment and safety
- Anesthesia equipment function and maintenance
- Patient positioning, monitoring, and care
- Airway management techniques
- Medications and dosage calculations
- Anesthesia documentation
- ACLS protocols
How to Become an Anesthesia Technician
To start an anesthesia tech career:
- Complete anesthesia technician training either on-the-job or through a dedicated program
- Obtain national certification through ASATT
- Develop expertise in anesthesia delivery systems and patient monitoring
- Build a calm, cool-headed mentality and critical thinking skills
- Maintain up-to-date ACLS certification
- Apply for open anesthesia technician roles in surgical settings
Top Programs and Certifications
Leading anesthesia technician programs include:
- Howard Community College Anesthesia Tech Program
- Kaiser Permanente Anesthesia Technician Apprenticeship
- UCLA Anesthesia Technician Training Program
The ASATT Certified Anesthesia Technician certification is the primary national credential.
Job Search Strategies
When applying for anesthesia tech jobs, highlight your specialized skills, training, attention to detail, calm under pressure, and dedication to safe, compassionate perioperative care. With the right credentials, you can begin an exciting and meaningful career as an anesthesia technician.