Pharmacology Basics for Anesthesia Technicians

Pharmacology helps anesthesia technicians and technologists understand the common medications used during anesthesia, their general purposes, expected physiologic effects, and important safety considerations. This knowledge supports safer preparation, communication, equipment readiness, and recognition of medication-related changes during patient care.

This lesson covers IV induction agents, inhaled anesthetics, opioids, benzodiazepines, neuromuscular blocking agents, local anesthetics, vasopressors, antiemetics, bronchodilators, anticoagulants, medication labeling, concentration awareness, adverse effects, and safe medication handling within the anesthesia technician's role.