Anesthesia Technologist/Technician

Anesthesia treatment teams are comprised of licensed anesthesia technologists and technicians. These specialists assist anesthesiologists organize and prepare anesthesia equipment to deliver medication and monitor sedated patients. Hospitals and medical clinics that staff anesthesia technologists and technicians are able to provide efficient and less expensive anesthesia treatment.

The responsibilities of anesthesia technicians and technologists are dependent upon skills and training. These specialists are typically responsible for calibrating, sterilizing, and maintaining equipment, keeping equipment maintenance records, and setting up and operating electronic, pneumatic, and mechanical technology used to deliver anesthesia and monitor vital signs.

Anesthesia technologists and technicians assist anesthesiologists in routine as well as more complex surgeries. More experienced anesthesia technologists that have acquired more advanced training are often responsible for inspection, maintenance, and on-site repair.

Some technologists and technicians are also responsible for procuring and distributing supplies and equipment, maintaining records and monitoring inventory levels. Successful technicians are self motivated and capable of assuming a supervisory role from time to time.

Education Requirements
The American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) encourages people interested in this field to complete the following education/training program:

1. Element One

Classroom instruction – 800 hours
Clinical training – 800 hours
Combined classroom and clinical training needed to obtain an associate’s degree, including general education requirements – 1,600 hours

2. Element Two

Associate’s degree general education requirements – 30 units
Anesthesia technical classes required for the Certificate of Achievement – 30 units
Minimum unit requirements for graduation – 60 units

Certification
The American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) offers a certification for anesthesia technologists and technicians which is granted for a 2-year period. In order to maintain certification, anesthesia technologist must maintain a minimum of 20 continuing education hours. At the end of each 2-year recertification period, certified anesthesia technicians must reapply for certification.