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Anesthesia Technician Degree Review - Associate Degree Program

Published Dec 28, 2006

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An Anesthesia Technician Associate Degree educates students to function as entry-level technicians, assisting anesthetists in surgery. Students who complete the associate program as Anesthesia Technicians can start their careers by working in hospitals, medical clinics or medical centers.

An Anesthesia Technician Degree Overview

Summary of the Degree

An Anesthesia Technician Degree provides students with the credentials they need to work with anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists in surgical suites. Some of the more general courses mandatory in an Anesthesia Technician Degree Program include:

  • Operating Room Environment
  • Sterilizing Techniques
  • Managing Material
  • Fundamentals of Life Support
  • Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology
  • Different Types of Anesthesia
  • Managing Airway Equipment
  • Gas Machines and Delivery
  • Accessories and Monitors
  • Anesthesia and Pharmacology
  • Complications of Intraoperative
  • Intravenous Theory of Application
  • Monitoring Cardiac
  • Specific Anesthesia for Type of Surgery
  • Advance Life Support
  • Advance Life Support for Pediatric
  • Anesthesia Gas Delivery System

Skills Obtained

An associate degree in Anesthesia Technician teaches the graduate to work under direct supervision, and to follow the standard procedure for preparation of equipment, supplies and patients. The graduate also learns how to troubleshoot all equipment and to maintain a clean, organized work and storage area.

Career Fields

According to the American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (www.anesthetist.org), the biggest draw to a career in anesthesia technology is the demand for such technicians. Currently, a shortage of anesthesia personnel is reported because of three factors: more procedures are being done, more off-site facilities are opening up, and the population is aging and requires more surgery.

Occupational Outlook

The American Society of Anesthesia Technologies and Technicians published a salary survey claiming that the average annual salary range for anesthesia technician is $31,000 to $40,000. The highest annual salary range is $50,000 or above.

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