The healthcare sector has evolved over the years, these days, patients who need to undergo surgical procedures are given anesthesia and this is where anesthesia technician comes in.
They are professionals who ensure the safety and comfort of patients during procedures. They have become increasingly vital.
Their responsibilities encompass a range of tasks, they not only prepare anesthesia equipment, they also monitor patients during surgery.
In Nigeria, the demand for trained anesthesia technicians is on the rise, offering promising career opportunities for individuals interested in this field.
Sit back, as we delve into the essential aspects of becoming an anesthesia technician in Nigeria, highlighting all the necessary qualifications, training institutions, and career prospects.
What Is an Anesthesia Technician?
An Anesthesia Technician is a healthcare professional who assists anesthesiologists in the administration of anesthesia during surgical procedures.
Their primary duties include preparing and maintaining anesthesia equipment, monitoring patients’ vital signs, and ensuring the safe administration of anesthetic agents.
They work closely with surgical teams to ensure that patients remain stable and comfortable throughout procedures.
In Nigeria, anesthesia technicians are integral members of the surgical team, particularly in teaching hospitals and specialized medical centers.
Their expertise ensures that anesthesia is delivered safely and effectively, minimizing risks associated with surgical interventions.
As the healthcare industry continues to expand, the demand for skilled anesthesia technicians is expected to grow, offering stable career prospects.
How To Become An Anesthesia Technician
If you want to know how to become an anesthesia technician, you first require certain qualifications. Consider the following steps to pursue this career:
1. Attain GCSEs
Complete secondary school and attain your GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. You may require at least five GCSEs in grades 9 to 4 or A* to C. This includes English, maths and science. Doing particularly well in biology and chemistry at this level prepares you for many of the skills you may rely on as you advance in this profession.
2. Attain A-levels
Obtain a minimum of three A-levels or an equivalent qualification, including biology and chemistry. Consider taking maths or physics as your other options to help you apply for a relevant science degree.
The grades you require depend on which university you want to apply to, but science degrees are generally highly competitive, especially at top institutions.
Check entry requirements well in advance to ensure you pick relevant subjects. Universities may also look for evidence that you’re genuinely interested in the subject you’re applying for. You may show this through volunteering, work experience or another extracurricular activity.
3. Go to university
To become an anesthesia technician, gain an upper-second class degree in a health-based subject. This may be in biology, chemistry, biomedicine, biomedical sciences, biochemistry, nursing or pharmacy.
With relevant and high A-level results, you may be able to enter a three-year degree programme right away.
If you lack the required grades or subjects, you may be able to do a four-year programme with a foundation year as a pre-requisite.
Your degree may also take longer if you take a gap year or decide to swap degrees partway through.Some universities offer you the chance to undertake a work placement as part of your degree.
You may opt for this partway through your degree or when you’re applying. Some institutions refer to these programmes as sandwich courses.
Placements may be in a hospital, pharmacy or GP practice depending on your course. They’re usually assigned to you, but you may have some level of choice over where you work.
4. Gain experience
You may start applying for roles immediately after graduating from university, but it’s important to acquire some professional experience first.
You may have gained some experience during your degree on a placement. Otherwise, there are other ways of gaining relevant experience in a healthcare role.
Aim to do this as soon as possible to show evidence of using what you learnt in your degree at a professional level.
At any stage of your career, consider volunteering at your local hospital, shadowing a GP, working as an EMT or applying for a job at a local pharmacy or care home.
Consider any roles that demonstrate your interest and abilities in science and healthcare. This solidifies your concern for self-development, gives you valuable experience of what working in medicine is actually like, builds your knowledge and gives you plenty to discuss on your CVs, in your cover letters and during interviews
5. Apply to become a trainee anesthesia associate
The final step is to apply for an entry-level job as a trainee anesthesia associate. This gives you the specific experience and training required to become a fully qualified anesthesia technician.
With a healthcare degree and relevant experience, you’re able to apply for any open positions you find.This is a competitive role, so try to craft an enticing CV and prepare for interviews.
Ensure you tailor your CV to each individual anesthetist position. For example, note down the key skills and requirements of the role as listed in your job advert and ensure your CV showcases the same skills and abilities
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Skills and Competencies
Anesthesia technicians must possess a diverse set of skills to perform their duties efficiently. Technical proficiency in handling anesthesia equipment is paramount.
They should be adept at assembling, calibrating, and troubleshooting equipment to ensure its proper functioning.
Additionally, a strong understanding of pharmacology is essential, as technicians assist in the preparation and administration of anesthetic agents.
Monitoring patients’ vital signs during surgery is another critical responsibility. Anesthesia technicians must be vigilant in observing changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, reporting any abnormalities promptly to the anesthesiologist.
Effective communication skills are also crucial, as they need to collaborate closely with surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff.
Furthermore, anesthesia technicians should be prepared to respond swiftly to emergencies. Training in life support techniques, including CPR and trauma life support, is often included in their education to ensure they can act decisively in critical situations.
Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations
Graduates of anesthesia technician programs have various career paths available to them. Many find employment in public and private hospitals, particularly in operating theatres and intensive care units.
There are also opportunities in specialized clinics, trauma centers, and research institutions. With experience, some technicians advance to supervisory or managerial roles within anesthesia departments.
In terms of compensation, anesthesia technicians in Nigeria can expect varying salaries based on experience and location.
According to recent data, those with less than two years of experience earn an average of ₦2,460,900 annually.
With two to five years of experience, this increases to approximately ₦3,156,400 per year. Technicians with over 20 years of experience can earn up to ₦6,156,100 annually. (World Salaries)
It’s important to note that salaries can differ between the public and private sectors, with public sector positions often offering slightly higher pay.
Additionally, professionals with advanced degrees or certifications may command higher salaries and have better advancement opportunities.
Challenges and Considerations
While the role of an anesthesia technician is rewarding, it comes with its challenges. The work environment can be high-pressure, especially during complex surgeries or emergencies.
Technicians must be prepared to work long hours, including nights and weekends, as surgical procedures can occur at any time.
Furthermore, continuous professional development is essential. Technological advancements in anesthesia equipment and techniques require technicians to stay updated through ongoing education and training.
Joining professional bodies, such as the Association of Anesthetic Technicians and Technologists of Nigeria (ASATTEN), can provide networking opportunities and access to resources for career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between an anesthesia technician and an anesthesiologist?
An anesthesia technician assists in the preparation and administration of anesthesia, while an anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in anesthesia and oversees its administration during surgeries.
Can I become an anesthesia technician without a science background?
While a science background is beneficial, some institutions may offer preparatory courses to equip non-science students with the necessary knowledge for the programme
How long does it take to become an anesthesia technician in Nigeria?
The duration of training to become an anesthesia technician typically ranges from 2 to 3 years, depending on the institution and program structure.
Most programs combine both classroom teaching and clinical practice to prepare students for real-life situations.
After completing the course, you may also need to register with a relevant professional body to start working.
Is there a difference between an anesthesia technician and an anesthetic nurse?
Yes, there is a difference. Anesthetic nurses are registered nurses who receive additional training in anesthesia care, while anesthesia technicians are trained specifically to support anesthesiologists with equipment and patient monitoring.
Both work closely with surgical teams, but their education, scope of practice, and job responsibilities differ.
In some cases, their roles may overlap, especially in smaller hospitals with limited staffing
Conclusion
As much as the role of an anesthesia technician is one of the most important, it is also one of the most underrated careers in the Nigerian healthcare system.
From preparing life-saving equipment to supporting surgeons and monitoring patients during critical operations, their impact cannot be overstated.
Here are a few personal qualities someone who aspire to be an anesthesia technician should possess; detail-oriented, calm under pressure, and passionate about helping people, if you have these and its likes, this career might just be your calling.
By choosing this path, you are placing yourself at the heart of patient care, where your skills make a direct difference in outcomes.
So, if you’ve been considering a career in health but don’t want to be a doctor or nurse, becoming an anesthesia technician is a strong, respectable option, you should consider it.