Anesthesiologist assistants work under the direction of anesthesiologists and as part of an anesthesiology care team, along with nurses and other assistants. Despite the connotation of “assistant” they are highly educated and play an integral part in supporting the anesthesiologist, as well as in patient care before and after surgery.

Anesthesiologist assistants are trained in the adjustment of anesthesia and in advanced monitoring and airway management. AA’s work in a hospital and are always working under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. Other duties can include collecting patient data before surgery and physical examinations, safely transporting the patient from the operating room to the recovery room, and assisting in recovery care.