The anesthesia technician at this level aids anesthesiologist and nurse anesthetists in less-complex anesthetic procedures such as regional anesthesia (epidural and spinal) laryngeal mask anesthesia and monitored anesthesia care under close supervision. Technicians will exercise minimal independent judgment in anesthesia technology duties.
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education. There are no specific educational requirements for this occupation. Licensure or Certification. Licensure or Certification is not required for this occupation; For certain functional areas at the higher levels or supervisory assignments, specific certifications appropriate to the specialty are indicated in this standard under "Titles and Certification/Registrations". For all specialties identified in this standard, Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications are desirable. Training which does not result in official certification does not meet this definition. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: GS-07 Experience: In addition to the basic requirements candidates must possess at least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics related to the duties of the positions to be filled. Knowledge of the fundamentals of standard equipment operation, calibration and function. Knowledge of correct use of non-invasive patient monitoring equipment specific to anesthesiology. Ability to appropriately interact with patients during anesthetic procedures. Knowledge of anesthesiology supplies and equipment appropriate to routine anesthetic procedures, such as those found in typical inpatient settings. GS-08 Experience: In addition to the basic requirements candidates must possess at least 1 year of experience comparable to the next lower grade level which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics related to the duties of the positions to be filled. Knowledge of the correct use of invasive patient monitoring equipment specific to anesthesiology. Knowledge if basic electrocardiography (EKG) Skill and ability to troubleshoot equipment, often while the patient is anesthetized. Skills and ability to maintain sterility during procedures. Knowledge and understanding of arterial pressure line wave forms including the ability to recognize and distinguish normal from abnormality, and forewarn the physician or anesthetist of an impending life-threatening situation. Knowledge of anesthesiology supplies, medications, and equipment appropriate to more difficult anesthetic procedures such as those found in inpatient settings with more acutely ill patients. Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS 8.
Perform routine user maintenance of anesthesia equipment as prescribed by the manufacturer and section policy. Order supplies as needed to maintain an acceptable inventory. Maintain an inventory of both nitrous oxide and oxygen compressed gas cylinders. Assist with the set up pressure bags for arterial lines. Maintain an up-date inventory of all equipment assigned to the anesthesia section. Maintain and clean and organized storage area for all supplies and equipment. Check inventory each month for out-dated medication and return to pharmacy for replacement. Set up and calibrate both invasive and non-invasive pressure monitoring equipment. Assist members of the anesthesia section with date collection and recording as part if the quality assurance program. Work Schedule: To be determined Telework: NOT available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 570-2470 & 570-2471 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: NOT authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): NOT authorized