Degree Overview: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Anesthesiology
Majors Overview January 4, 2014Anesthesia is a drug used to numb and ease the body from pain, in order to proceed through a medical procedure. A.A.S. programs offer academic coursework with clinical training for students who are interested in pursuing a career as an anesthesia technologist.
A.A.S. Programs in Anesthesiology
Students enrolled in an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program in anesthesiology are taught about ways of administering chemicals and numbing specific areas of the bodies of patients. Anesthesia is also administered before a major surgery in order to make patients unconscious. Students are taught about the skills, technology and chemicals that are necessarily used by surgeons and anesthesiologists during a surgical operation. Various topics in medical technology and the natural sciences are typically covered by programs, in which students are imparted hands-on training in local hospital settings.
Education Requirements
Schools offering the program expect prospective students to display proficiency in the physical sciences, particularly in chemistry and biology. The need for effective interaction with medical professionals such as nurses, anesthesiologists and nurses entails the need for strong communication skills. Students enrolled in many programs are required to submit to background checks and display evidence of current disease immunizations.
Coursework
Many topics, in medical science, are discussed in classroom lectures related to anesthesiology technology programs – these include topic areas such as medical equipment used and the natural sciences. Enrolled students also acquire the skills and knowledge they would need in order to perform work in high-pressure medical environments. Coursework typically covers topic areas such as:
•Healthcare ethics
•Chemistry
•Microbiology
•Anesthesia equipment
•Patient care
•Pharmacology
•Physiology and anatomy
•Medical terminology
Job and Wage Outlook
Program graduates usually aspire for anesthesia technologist roles. A job growth rate of 25% has been predicted for all surgical technologists including anesthesia technologists, during the period from 2008 to 2018 (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, the average anesthesia technologist earned an annual wage of $90,930.
Continuing Education Choices
The American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) offer professional certifications for anesthesia technologists. Graduation from an approved program, completion of supervised work and passage of a written exam are requirements for certification.