30+ Anaesthesia Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Anesthesia is a medical practice that involves the administration of drugs to induce a temporary loss of sensation or consciousness during surgical procedures.

• Anesthesia is used to prevent pain and discomfort during surgery or other medical procedures.

• It can be administered through various methods such as inhalation, injection, or topical application.

• Anesthesia is closely related to the field of anesthesiology, which focuses on the study and practice of anesthesia.

• Different t...read more

The operation theatre can be sterilized using a combination of physical and chemical methods.

• Clean the operation theatre thoroughly before sterilization.

• Use steam sterilization for heat-resistant equipment and instruments.

• Use chemical sterilization for heat-sensitive equipment and instruments.

• Ensure proper ventilation and air filtration in the operation theatre.

• Follow strict protocols for hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment.

• Regularly monitor and maintain ste...read more

The fibro optic scope can be sterilized using various methods such as autoclaving, chemical sterilization, or gas sterilization.

• Autoclaving involves subjecting the scope to high-pressure steam for a specific duration.

• Chemical sterilization involves immersing the scope in a solution of disinfectant or sterilant.

• Gas sterilization involves exposing the scope to a gas such as ethylene oxide.

• The method used will depend on the manufacturer's recommendations and the type of scope be...read more

There are several types of anesthesia used in medical procedures.

• General anesthesia: used for major surgeries, patient is completely unconscious

• Regional anesthesia: numbs a specific area of the body, patient remains conscious

• Local anesthesia: numbs a small area, often used for minor procedures

• Sedation anesthesia: combines local anesthesia with sedation to relax the patient

• Topical anesthesia: applied to the surface of the skin or mucous membranes

Anesthesia machine parts include vaporizers, flowmeters, breathing circuits, and pressure gauges.

• Vaporizers: These devices deliver the anesthetic agent to the patient.

• Flowmeters: They control the flow of gases, such as oxygen and nitrous oxide, to the patient.

• Breathing circuits: These connect the patient to the anesthesia machine and deliver the gases to the patient's lungs.

• Pressure gauges: They monitor the pressure of gases in the anesthesia system.

• Other parts may include ve...read more

To change the oxygen cylinder, I will first close the cylinder valve, then remove the regulator, replace the cylinder, and finally attach the regulator and open the valve.

• Close the cylinder valve before removing the regulator

• Remove the regulator from the empty cylinder

• Replace the empty cylinder with a full one

• Attach the regulator to the new cylinder

• Open the cylinder valve slowly to check for leaks

General anesthesia is a state of unconsciousness induced by medications to ensure a painless and safe surgical procedure.

• General anesthesia involves the use of intravenous drugs and inhaled gases to induce unconsciousness.

• It is administered by an anesthesiologist or anesthesia provider.

• During general anesthesia, the patient is unable to feel pain, has no awareness, and is unable to remember the procedure.

• Examples of medications used in general anesthesia include propofol, sev...read more

During an emergency intubation, I prioritize airway management, assess the patient's condition, gather necessary equipment, and communicate effectively with the team.

• Assess the patient's airway and breathing status

• Prepare necessary equipment such as laryngoscope, endotracheal tube, and suction

• Position the patient appropriately for intubation

• Administer appropriate medications for sedation and paralysis if needed

• Communicate effectively with the team to ensure smooth coordinatio...read more

During surgery, managing cardiac arrest involves immediate recognition, calling for help, starting CPR, defibrillation if needed, and identifying and treating the underlying cause.

• Immediately recognize cardiac arrest by checking for absence of pulse and unresponsiveness

• Call for help and activate the emergency response team

• Start CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths

• Use defibrillation if indicated

• Identify and treat the underlying cause of the cardiac arrest, such as el...read more

The dose of anaesthetic drugs varies depending on the patient's age, weight, medical condition, and the type of surgery being performed.

• The dose of anaesthetic drugs is determined by the anaesthesiologist based on the patient's individual characteristics.

• Factors such as age, weight, and medical history are taken into consideration when calculating the dose.

• Different surgeries may require different doses of anaesthetic drugs.

• The dose may also be adjusted during the procedure b...read more

Assisting with difficult airway involves using various techniques and equipment to ensure proper ventilation and oxygenation.

• Assess the patient's airway anatomy and potential difficulties

• Use alternative airway devices such as laryngeal mask airway (LMA) or intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA)

• Consider fiberoptic bronchoscopy for visualization of the airway

• Perform a surgical airway (cricothyroidotomy or tracheostomy) as a last resort if unable to secure the airway via tradit...read more

Blocks are regional anesthesia techniques used to numb a specific area of the body.

• Peripheral nerve blocks

• Epidural blocks

• Spinal blocks

• Interscalene blocks

• Femoral nerve blocks

• Axillary blocks

• Popliteal blocks

• Paravertebral blocks

Preparing a patient for surgery involves assessment, education, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.

• Conduct a thorough pre-operative assessment, including medical history and physical examination.

• Ensure all necessary laboratory tests and imaging studies are completed and reviewed.

• Educate the patient about the surgical procedure, risks, and post-operative care.

• Verify that the patient has fasted according to the surgeon's instructions to reduce the risk of aspiration.

• Con...read more

Managing a difficult airway involves assessment, preparation, and the use of advanced techniques to ensure patient safety.

• Assess the airway: Evaluate the patient's anatomy and history for potential difficulties.

• Prepare equipment: Ensure availability of tools like video laryngoscopes, bougies, and supraglottic devices.

• Use the Mallampati classification: Determine the airway difficulty based on the visibility of the oropharyngeal structures.

• Consider alternative techniques: If in...read more

Inj:amidrone infusion can be diluted by adding it to a compatible IV solution.

• Check the compatibility of the IV solution with amidrone

• Calculate the required amount of amidrone to be added to the IV solution

• Mix the solution thoroughly before administering

• Monitor the patient for any adverse reactions

Assist in general anaesthesia by preparing equipment, monitoring patient vitals, and ensuring a safe environment.

• Prepare anaesthesia equipment: Ensure all necessary tools like anaesthesia machines, monitors, and drugs are ready.

• Check patient history: Review the patient's medical history and allergies to avoid complications.

• Monitor vital signs: Continuously observe heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation during the procedure.

• Assist with airway management: Help secure...read more

Achieving work-life balance involves setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring personal time for well-being.

• Set clear boundaries: Define work hours and stick to them to avoid burnout.

• Prioritize tasks: Use tools like to-do lists to focus on urgent tasks first.

• Schedule personal time: Allocate time for hobbies or family to recharge.

• Practice self-care: Engage in activities like exercise or meditation to maintain mental health.

• Communicate: Discuss workload with supervis...read more

Managing critical patients involves assessment, monitoring, and timely interventions to ensure patient safety and stability.

• Conduct thorough assessments: Evaluate vital signs, airway, breathing, and circulation.

• Implement continuous monitoring: Use ECG, pulse oximetry, and blood pressure monitoring to track patient status.

• Administer medications: Provide necessary drugs such as analgesics, sedatives, or vasopressors as per protocols.

• Ensure airway management: Be prepared to secu...read more

Positioning of the patient is crucial for ensuring safety and optimal access during anesthesia procedures.

• Proper positioning helps maintain patient comfort and prevent complications.

• Positioning should be tailored to the specific procedure and patient's condition.

• Common positions include supine, prone, lateral, lithotomy, and sitting positions.

• Positioning aids such as pillows, padding, and straps may be used to support and secure the patient.

• Care should be taken to avoid press...read more

The normal weight of a baby after birth varies, but the average is around 7.5 pounds.

• The normal weight of a baby after birth can range from 5.5 to 10 pounds.

• Factors such as gestational age, maternal health, and genetics can influence a baby's weight.

• Babies born prematurely tend to have lower birth weights, while babies born after a full-term pregnancy tend to have higher birth weights.

• For example, a baby born at 37 weeks gestation may weigh around 6 pounds, while a baby born ...read more

Essential items and preparations for administering epidurals in a clinical setting.

• Sterile drapes and gloves to maintain aseptic technique.

• Epidural catheter kit including a needle, catheter, and syringe.

• Local anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine) for skin infiltration.

• Sedation medications if required for patient comfort.

• Monitoring equipment (e.g., blood pressure cuff, pulse oximeter).

• Emergency resuscitation equipment (e.g., oxygen, airway management tools).

• Post-procedure care items (e...read more

Sterile anesthesia equipment is essential for preventing infections during surgical procedures.

• Use of autoclaves to sterilize instruments like syringes and needles.

• Single-use items, such as IV catheters and breathing circuits, minimize contamination risk.

• Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment to ensure sterility.

• Proper storage in sterile containers to avoid exposure to contaminants.

• Adherence to aseptic techniques during setup and administration.

Anaesthesia is a medical practice that induces a temporary loss of sensation or awareness for surgical procedures.

• Types of anaesthesia include general, regional, and local anaesthesia.

• General anaesthesia renders the patient unconscious, e.g., during major surgeries.

• Regional anaesthesia blocks sensation in a specific area, e.g., epidurals for childbirth.

• Local anaesthesia numbs a small area, e.g., dental procedures.

• Anaesthesia is administered by trained professionals, such as a...read more

Anaesthesia technicians assist anaesthesiologists in preparing and administering anaesthesia to patients before medical procedures.

• Assist anaesthesiologists in preparing and administering anaesthesia

• Ensure all equipment is functioning properly

• Monitor patients during procedures

• Maintain accurate records of anaesthesia usage

• Provide support to patients before and after procedures

Intubation is the process of inserting a tube into the trachea to maintain an open airway during anesthesia or emergencies.

• Preparation: Gather necessary equipment, including endotracheal tube, laryngoscope, and suction.

• Positioning: Place the patient in the 'sniffing' position to align the airway.

• Pre-oxygenation: Administer 100% oxygen to the patient to increase oxygen reserves.

• Laryngoscopy: Use a laryngoscope to visualize the vocal cords and facilitate tube insertion.

• Tube Ins...read more

The number of drugs used in anaesthesia varies based on procedures, patient needs, and protocols, typically ranging from 5 to 20.

• Induction Agents: Common drugs include Propofol and Thiopental, used to initiate anaesthesia.

• Analgesics: Opioids like Fentanyl and Morphine are used for pain management during procedures.

• Muscle Relaxants: Drugs such as Succinylcholine and Rocuronium facilitate intubation and surgical access.

• Inhalational Agents: Agents like Sevoflurane and Isoflurane...read more

Loading drugs involves preparing and administering medications safely and accurately in an anaesthesia setting.

• Verify the medication order and patient details before loading drugs.

• Use aseptic technique to prevent contamination when handling vials or syringes.

• Check the expiration date and integrity of the drug packaging.

• Draw up the correct dosage using a syringe, ensuring no air bubbles are present.

• Label the syringes clearly with the drug name, dosage, and patient information....read more