What Anesthesia Technicians Do

An anesthesia technician is responsible for supporting the anesthesiologist and other anesthesiology personnel. This includes the management and maintenance of the equipment used by anesthesiologists. The anesthesia technician is responsible for sterilizing, cleaning, assembling, calibrating, testing, and troubleshooting various pieces of machinery. They may also be in charge of equipment monitoring a patient actively under anesthesia.

Types of Work Environments

  • Hospitals
  • Operating suites
  • Emergency rooms

Education and Training Requirements

The minimum requirement for an entry-level position as an anesthesia technician is a high school diploma or GED. However, some employers may require a two-year associate's degree in healthcare. The American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) also administers an examination that certifies anesthesia technicians to work in hospitals.

Salary

According to salary.com, the median salary for anesthesia technicians is approximately $46,830 per year.

Professional Organization

The American Society of Anesthesiologists - Types of Careers in Anesthesiology