Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Anesthesia Assistant (AA) is a regulated healthcare professional, most commonly a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) or Registered Nurse (RN). They work under the supervision of an anesthesiologist to support the delivery of anesthesia care. Anesthesia Assistants help prepare patients and equipment, assist with airway management and anesthesia procedures, monitor patients during anesthesia, and support post-anesthetic care.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 26.5% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 12 000
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 19% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Physician Assistants, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals. According to the wage tables, average income is $97K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $50K per year | NA per year | $97K per year | NA per year | $125K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $32K above the national average. | ||||
Anesthesiologist Assistants typically work in operating rooms within hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, or specialty clinics. The environment is fast-paced and requires strict adherence to safety and hygiene standards. They work closely with anesthesiologists, surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff, often in high-pressure situations during surgical procedures.
Anesthesiologist Assistants are integral members of the anesthesia care team. They work under the direction of licensed anesthesiologists to ensure safe and effective anesthesia care for patients undergoing various procedures. This role requires a deep understanding of anesthetic drugs, techniques, and technology, as well as human physiology and pharmacology.
Daily responsibilities include preoperative patient evaluations, assisting in developing anesthesia plans, and monitoring patients' vital signs and comfort levels during procedures. They must be adept at using a range of medical devices and monitoring equipment. Their role is crucial in quickly responding to changes in a patient's condition and effectively communicating with the surgical team.
The career demands strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. Anesthesiologist Assistants must be compassionate and skilled in patient care, as they play a key role in easing patients' fears and ensuring their comfort and safety before, during, and after procedures.
Canada uses the role of Anesthesia Assistant (AA), which is typically filled by Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) or Registered Nurses (RNs) who complete postgraduate certificate or diploma training in anesthesia assistance. These programs are usually 1 year or less and are regulated at the provincial level, with practice occurring under the supervision of an anesthesiologist.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
