This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Under the direction of an anesthesiologist, administers local, inhalation, intravenous, and other anesthetics during surgical, obstetrical, or other medical procedures. Interprets and records patient's physiological and pharmacological status. Ability to provide continuity of care during the pre-op and post-op period and respond to life-threatening situations as required.
Duties and Responsibilities
Reviews patient's chart, including lab, X-ray, EKG, and other information, to evaluate physical status and anesthesia risk.
Evaluates patient's condition and recommends anesthetics to be used.
Prepares prescribed solutions and administers local, intravenous, spinal, or other anesthetic following specified methods and procedures.
Observes condition of patient during surgical procedures, including skin color, dilation of pupils, and vital signs; initiates remedial measures to prevent surgical shock or other adverse conditions as required.
Informs physician of patient's condition and supportive needs during anesthesia.
Accompanies patient to recovery area and remains until patient's immediate condition is acceptable.
Observes patients receiving spinal or local anesthetic; provides post-anesthetic care.
Prepares operating room; checks anesthesia machine, supplies, medications, and gases.
Performs pre- and post-anesthesia patient visits; documents anesthesia notes on patient records.
Responds to patient resuscitation calls.
Maintains professional growth and development through seminars, workshops, and professional affiliations.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
For Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA): State of New Mexico Licensed Registered Nurse or licensure pending as documented by temporary licensure or current RN licensure from a state participating in the multistate privilege to practice compact with New Mexico Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist; no previous directly related experience required. OR For Anesthesiology Assistants-Certified (AAC); Certified by National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) and National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME); Must maintain biannual certification through the submission of Continuing Medical Education credits (CMEs); NM Licensure as Anesthesiologist Assistant; no previous directly related experience required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques.
Current knowledge of the nature, toxicity, and antidotes of a range of drugs, poisons and other substances.
Ability to communicate medical information to health care professionals and the public over the telephone under crisis circumstances.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community.
Data entry and documentation skills.
Ability to perform case audits and reviews for continuous quality improvement.
Knowledge of a wide range of pharmaceutical and other drugs and their indications, contraindications, dosing, and side effects.
Skill in preparing operating room for required procedures.
Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel.
Ability to clearly communicate medical information to professional practitioners and/or the general public.
Knowledge of CPR and emergency medical procedures.
Knowledge of medical equipment and instruments utilized in anesthetic procedures.
Knowledge of patient care charts and patient histories.
Knowledge of possible patient symptoms and reactions under anesthesia.
Knowledge of current anesthesiology principles and practices.
Knowledge of agents, equipment, procedures, and techniques for the provision of anesthesia to patients.
Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
Knowledge of pre- and post-anesthetic patient care procedures and standards.
Skill in preparing and maintaining patient records.
Ability to observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress.
Conditions of Employment
CPR Certified.
Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
May be subject to credentialing process; must maintain credentialed status, if applicable.
Must maintain certification status.
Successful candidate must submit to a post-offer, pre-employment physical.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Work involves considerable exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
Considerable physical activity. Requires moving objects or people 50 to 100 pounds occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds consistently; standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
