Anesthesiologist assistants (AAs) are highly educated allied
health professionals who work under the direction of an anesthesiologist
to help implement the anesthetic plan as prescribed by the
anesthesiologist.
AAs work exclusively within the Anesthesia Care
Team environment as described by the American Society
of Anesthesiologists.
AAs are trained through masters degree professional programs
in the delivery and maintenance of quality anesthesia care
as well as advanced patient monitoring techniques. Practicing
independently or in a primary care setting is NOT included
in the AAs scope of practice. AAs usually practice in a hospital
setting which uses the Anesthesia Care Team approach and are
always supervised by anesthesiologists.
The profession maintains a typical work week with options
for on-call, evening or weekend assignments. Salaries, scope
of practice and job descriptions are identical to certified
registered nurse anesthetists when working within the Anesthesia
Care Team. Starting salaries vary by region but typically
range from $110,000 - $120,000.
RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:
- Pretesting and calibrating of anesthesia delivery systems
and monitors
- Collecting preoperative data and performing physical examinations
- Inserting venous, arterial and other invasive catheters
- Any duties which encompass assistance of the implementation
of the anesthetic plan as prescribed by the anesthesiologist
- Airway management including intubation, fiberoptics
- Making anesthetic adjustments using intraoperative monitoring
modalities
- Providing safe transition from operating room to recovery
area
- Performing functions in the intensive care unit and pain
clinic
- Participating in administrative affairs, research and
clinical instruction
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AAAA Leaders: Deborah Lawson, AA-C,
Pete Kaluszyk, AA-C, MEd,
Michael Nichols, AA-C
AAAA Student Reps:
Christen Donohoe and Jenna Saraniti
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