Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians

What Do They Do?

What Do They Do?

Anesthesia technologists and technicians assist anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists by preparing, maintaining, and monitoring anesthesia equipment and supplies before, during, and after surgeries. They provide essential support in both routine and complex procedures in various surgical settings under direct supervision. They are responsible for maintaining, sterilizing, assembling, and troubleshooting anesthesia equipment. Their tasks may include operating patient monitoring devices, managing equipment inventories, and maintaining service records. Technologists provide technical support for anesthesia professionals, including pressure monitoring, autotransfusion, and lab functions. Technicians handle first-level maintenance, cleaning, sterilization, and routine stocking of anesthesia supplies.

Where Do They Work?

Where Do They Work?

Anesthesia technologists and technicians work mostly in hospitals and outpatient surgical settings. They may work in the operating rooms, anesthesia work rooms, post anesthesia recovery rooms, intensive care units, and in outpatient surgery rooms.

How Much Do They Earn?

How Much Do They Earn?

Median annual salary: $48,995

 

Entry-level annual salary: $42,499

Educational Requirements

Educational Requirements

A high school diploma is required to become an anesthesia technologist or technician. Some positions may require a 2 year health care degree or 2 to 4 years of healthcare experience. Completion of an anesthesia technician trainee program may also be necessary to gain knowledge of standard practices and procedures in the field.

Licensure Requirements

Licensure Requirements

New York does not require anesthesia technologists and technicians to be licensed, but voluntary certification through ASATT is recommended. ASATT offers the nationally recognized Cer AT certification for technicians, requiring 20 continuing education hours every 2 years. Certification for technologists also exists, requiring 30 continuing education hours.

Education Programs

Education Programs

There are no accredited anesthesia technologist and technician educational programs in New York State.