Anesthesiologist working in the operating room with an Anesthesia Assistant at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

Anesthesia Assistants Education

Anesthesia Assistants are integral members of the perioperative team, playing a crucial role in the Department’s continuing clinical and academic excellence.

Anesthesia Assistants have a diploma/degree in Respiratory Therapy or Nursing. They also have completed advanced certification in an Anesthesia Assistant course. The Anesthesia Assistant course in Ontario is offered by Thompson Rivers Institute or the Michener Institute.

Anesthesia Assistants are supported by the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine and The Ottawa Hospital. The Anesthesia team act as mentors and teachers in clinical placements for the Anesthesia Assistant programs.