Columbia State Community College recently honored three anesthesia technology graduates in a pinning ceremony in the Waymon L. Hickman Building.

“The demand for entry-level anesthesia technologists remains strong across the state and the majority of our students have already secured employment prior to graduation,” said Sue Christian, Columbia State program director and assistant professor of anesthesia technology. “This speaks to the quality of education and training provided by the college. Employers recognize the value of formally educated anesthesia technologists and actively seek out graduates from Columbia State’s program.”

The Anesthesia Technology Associate of Applied Science degree academic plan involves two or more semesters of general education coursework followed by a 12-month, three semester, series of core courses designed to provide classroom and clinical-based competencies which provide students with the skills required for credentialing exam success and immediate in-field employment.

“The availability of credentialed anesthesia technologists in area healthcare facilities changes the workflow and efficiency of a department,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “Columbia State is proud to sponsor one of only eleven accredited anesthesia technology programs in the U.S. and the only program in Tennessee.”

Anesthesia technologists support the licensed anesthesia provider with the acquisition, preparation and application of various types of equipment required for the delivery of anesthesia. Other job responsibilities of the anesthesia technologist include maintaining the anesthesia machine, assisting with vascular access and regional anesthesia procedures, troubleshooting equipment, assisting with difficult airways, performing point of care lab tests and operating rapid infusers. More advanced duties might include the operation of autotransfusion equipment or intra-aortic balloon pumps.