Job Summary:

In accordance with the Purpose, Vision, Values and Coast Salish Teachings, and strategic direction of PHSA, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA. As such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Anesthesia Assistant Trainee functions as an integral member of the surgical team through provision of technical support and clinical assistance with induction, maintenance and emergence of anesthesia, under direct clinical supervision of the attending anesthesiologist and in accordance with the standards of practice guidelines of the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society.

The Anesthesia Assistant Trainee reports to the Anesthesia Supervisor for learning outcomes and the Program Manager for schedule of rotation.  The Anesthesia Supervisor assesses trainee progress and develops an ongoing plan to help the trainee meet all learning requirements.

The Anesthesia Assistant Trainee provides clinical assistance under the direct supervision of an Attending Anesthesiologist. A Qualified Anesthesia Assistant orientates the Anesthetic Assistant Trainee to the role including demonstration and supervision of practice of the technical duties associated with the role. The Anesthesia Supervisor and Program Manager confirms and agrees sufficient proficiency in the required technical duties prior to completion of the orientation process.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1. Assists in the preparation and induction of anesthesia including Preoperative checkout/calibration of the Anesthetic workstation and provision of anticipated equipment needs for each case. Assists with patient preparation by performing duties such as pre-operative patient assessment, positioning, invasive line setup.

2. Assists with and/or performs the insertion of devices such as oro or nasogastric tubes, intravenous, and intra-arterial catheters under the supervision of the attending anesthesiologist. Assists with establishing arterial lines and assist with central line, Swan Ganz, TEE placement. Assist with neuraxial techniques such as epidural, spinal and regional anesthesia. Establishing, monitoring and management of the airway, including assistance with difficult airways and topicalization.

3. Assists in the documentation of patient data on the Anesthetic Record.

4. Under the supervision of the attending anesthesiologist, assists and/or performs procedural sedation as directed. Monitors intra-operative patient status and intervenes as instructed including airway management, NG placement, temperature control (monitoring and devices), diagnostic data such as ABG’s, hemodynamic calculations and glucose testing. Prepares and administers prescribed pharmacological agents to maintain adequacy of anesthesia and hemodynamic stability.  Responds to and assists with all intraoperative crises such as Cardiac Arrest, Malignant Hyperthermia, Failed Intubation and Hemorrhage.  Administration of blood and blood products, including autotransfusion (Cell Saver).

5. Maintains and stocks pediatric, difficult intubation, hemodynamic and malignant hyperthermia carts.

6. Assists anesthesiologist with emergence from anesthesia including Titration of anesthetic, airway maintenance, titration of mechanical ventilation and extubation. Transfer, transportation and postoperative management of ventilation.

7. Assists anesthesiologist with cases outside of the O.R. such as MRI, CT scan, Interventional suites, Cath Lab and Endoscopy.

8. Prepare fiber-optic bronchoscopes and other equipment as required, and assist the anesthesiologist during bronchoscopy with equipment set-up, preparation of and instillation of medication, and sample procurement.

9. In conjunction with Anesthesiology and Biomedical Engineering departments: tests and identifies issues with a variety of medical equipment, assists with the preventative maintenance program, and ensures that equipment is operating effectively.

10. Collection and compilation of statistical data for assigned equipment trials and research.

11. Maintains professional knowledge and competency by participating in educational events and attending regular updates of qualifying education. (eg: ACLS)

12. Participate in the operating room infection control program by performing duties such as maintaining cleanliness in anesthetic equipment in accordance with quality assurance programs. Maintain measures, according to established procedures, to minimize operating room pollution.

13. Carries out responsibilities in accordance with health and safety requirements.  Immediately reports unsafe situations by notifying supervisor or other appropriate personnel.

14. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience

• Graduation from an accredited Respiratory Therapy program. One year of critical care experience or two years’ experience in an acute care environment.
• Active enrolment in the Certificate of Anesthesia Assistant program
• Membership in the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT), and the British Columbia Society of Respiratory Therapists (BCSRT).
• Current Basic Cardiac Life Support


Skills and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with all team members.
• Ability to deal with others effectively.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to organize work.
• Ability to operate related equipment.
• Critical thinking skills.

** Please note: Support for nomination with the BC Provincial Nominee Program is not a guarantee, entitlement or an employee benefit after receiving a full time job offer with PHSA **