Introduction
An Anaesthesia Technician is a key paramedical professional who supports anesthesiologists during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing anaesthesia equipment, assisting in anaesthesia administration, and continuously monitoring the patient during surgery.
Anaesthesia Technicians play a vital role in patient safety, pain management, and smooth surgical workflow inside the operating theatre.
Who is an Anaesthesia Technician?
An Anaesthesia Technician is a trained healthcare professional who works under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. Their primary duty is to manage anaesthesia-related equipment, drugs, and monitoring systems before, during, and after surgery.
They are essential members of the OT team and are involved in almost all types of surgical procedures.
Responsibilities of an Anaesthesia Technician
Pre-Operative Responsibilities
Before surgery, the Anaesthesia Technician:
- Prepares anaesthesia machines and circuits
- Checks oxygen supply, ventilators, and suction
- Arranges anaesthesia drugs and emergency medicines
- Ensures the availability of airway equipment
- Assists in patient preparation and positioning
Intra-Operative Responsibilities
During surgery, responsibilities include:
- Assisting an anesthesiologist during induction
- Monitoring vital signs (BP, pulse, SpO₂, ECG)
- Managing anaesthesia equipment during surgery
- Handling airway devices and IV lines
- Responding toanaesthesia-relatedd emergencies
Post-Operative Responsibilities
After surgery, Anaesthesia Technician:
- Assists in patient recovery and extubation
- Monitors patient in recovery room
- Cleans and prepares anaesthesia equipment
- Maintains anesthesia records
- Prepares OT for the next procedure
Anaesthesia Equipment Handled
Anaesthesia Technicians work with:
- Anesthesia machines
- Ventilators
- Patient monitors
- Laryngoscopes and airway devices
- Syringe pumps and infusion pumps
Proper knowledge of these devices is essential for safe anaesthesia practice.
Skills Required for Anesthesia Technician
Important skills include:
- Strong understanding of anaesthesia principles
- Knowledge of emergency drugs
- Ability to work calmly under pressure
- Quick decision-making skills
- Team coordination and communication
Educational Qualification
To become an Anaesthesia Technician, students can pursue:
- Diploma in Anaesthesia Technology
- BSc in Anaesthesia Technology
- Certificate courses related to anaesthesia care
Career Scope of Anesthesia Technician
Anaesthesia Technicians can work in:
- Government hospitals
- Private and corporate hospitals
- Trauma and emergency care units
- Intensive Care Units (ICU)
- Overseas hospitals
With experience, they can advance to senior anaesthesia technologist roles or specialise in critical care and pain management.
Importance of Anaesthesia Technicians in OT
Anaesthesia Technicians ensure:
- Safe administration of anesthesia
- Continuous patient monitoring
- Emergency preparedness
- Smooth coordination between OT team members
They are crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
Conclusion
Anaesthesia Technology is a highly responsible and rewarding paramedical career. Anesthesia Technicians are essential for patient safety and surgical success. With growing surgical demands in India and abroad, this profession offers strong career stability and growth opportunities.
