Anasthesia Injection

Anesthesia Technologist Job Duties

Anesthesia technologists are surgical technologists who specialize in assisting anesthesiologists. These professionals heavily assist in pre-surgery by setting up and sterilizing any necessary equipment, taking patient vital signs, and helping anesthesiologists into their sterile gowns. Additionally, before the procedure, anesthesia technologists ensure that all anesthesia equipment functions properly to keep patients sedated. During the actual surgery, anesthesia technologists may observe the vital signs of a patient, but primarily hand materials to doctors and perform minor duties, like applying dressings or monitoring operating equipment.

In order to become an anesthesia technologist, a student must acquire a diploma, certificate, or an associate's degree. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has accredited over 450 training programs around the country. These programs may require anywhere from 9-24 months to finish and include instruction in basic pharmacology, anesthetics, instrumentation and EKG analysis.