The American Society of Anesthesia Technologists & Technicians (ASATT) offers the National Certification Examination (NCE) to recognize individuals who have met the prescribed standard of preparation and have a requisite body of knowledge in anesthesia technology. Earning the Certified Anesthesia Technologist (Cer.A.T.T.) designation demonstrates your proficiency and commitment to the profession, making it a vital step for those looking to advance their career in this critical field. This certification is designed for anesthesia technicians who seek to validate their experience, and graduates of accredited anesthesia technology programs entering the workforce. It confirms a professional's ability to support the anesthesia provider, maintain complex equipment, and ensure patient safety throughout the perioperative process.
Preparing for the ASATT NCE requires a deep understanding of multiple distinct domains. The examination content is derived from a national job analysis, ensuring it reflects the essential tasks and knowledge required for safe and effective practice. The exam covers the following six core content domains, with approximate weighting:
Equipment, Instrumentation, and Technology (35%): This is the largest section, focusing on anesthesia machines, pneumatic and electronic monitoring devices, airway equipment, and troubleshooting, as well as auxiliary devices like cell savers and fluid warmers.
Basic Sciences (15%): This domain tests knowledge in anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and microbiology, specifically related to anesthesia.
Pharmacology (15%): Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of anesthetic agents, adjunctive drugs, dosage calculations, and the physiologic effects of medications.
Basic Principles of Anesthesia (15%): This section covers the fundamental practices of general, regional, and monitored anesthesia care (MAC), including patient positioning and monitoring.
Advanced Principles (15%): This includes pediatric, obstetric, and cardiovascular anesthesia principles, and more complex monitoring techniques.
Professional Aspects (5%): This domain addresses safety standards, regulatory requirements, ethical considerations, and the technologist's role within the healthcare team.
The ASATT National Certification Examination (NCE) is a computer-based test consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions. It is designed to be completed in a single 3 hour and 45-minute session. Of the 200 questions, only 160 are scored; the remaining 40 questions are pre-test items that are being evaluated for future use and are distributed throughout the exam. Because you cannot identify which questions are pre-test items, it is critical to answer every question with equal effort.
A raw score, representing the total number of scored questions answered correctly, is converted into a scaled score ranging from 0 to 100. To pass, candidates must achieve a scaled score of 75 or higher. This scaled score is determined through a statistical process called equating, which maintains the same standard of passing across different forms of the examination. You will receive an immediate preliminary score report after the exam, followed by an official score report from ASATT by mail. If a candidate does not pass, they may re-take the examination after a 90-day waiting period, up to three times in a 12-month period, provided they meet the eligibility requirements for each attempt.
Preparation for the ASATT NCE should be a multi-faceted process. The most effective strategy is to start by downloading the official 'ASATT NCE Candidate Handbook' and 'Exam Content Outline' from the ASATT website. These documents are invaluable, as they detail the precise knowledge and skills tested within each domain. Use this outline to create a structured study plan, allocating more time to areas with a higher examination weight or where you feel less confident.
Leverage the 'ASATT Reference List' included in the handbook. It lists the actual textbooks and resources from which exam questions are drawn. ASATT also offers official practice exams that provide a realistic simulation of the actual testing experience. Practicing these will help you gauge your readiness and identify areas that need further study. Many students also find study apps and online mock exams helpful for quick review and familiarization with multiple-choice question formats. Forming a study group with colleagues who are also preparing for the NCE can provide mutual support and fresh perspectives.
The ASATT NCE is administered through Meazure Learning, a professional testing company. Once you are approved to take the exam, you will be sent a Notice to Schedule (NTS) email. This allows you to choose a testing session from a network of Meazure Learning contracted assessment centers distributed geographically across the United States. While most sessions are in-person, some may offer live, online proctoring, depending on availability.
Earning the ASATT Certified Anesthesia Technologist (Cer.A.T.T.) credential provides clear validation of your expertise and significantly enhances your career prospects. It is often the preferred, or required, qualification for anesthesia support personnel in major medical centers, large health systems, and specialized surgical facilities. The Cer.A.T.T. designation unlocks new job opportunities, including:
Certified Anesthesia Technologist
Lead Anesthesia Technologist
Anesthesia Tech Supervisor
Anesthesia Tech Clinical Instructor
Operating Room Equipment Coordinator
Perioperative Service Manager
This certification also paves the way for specialized roles, such as the following, in areas that require advanced technology and patient care skills:
Cell Saver/Blood Salvage Technician
Cardiovascular Anesthesia Technologist
Anesthesia Tech in a Level 1 Trauma Center
By achieving national certification, you demonstrate to employers and colleagues your dedicated focus on patient safety and commitment to professional excellence.
Create an account or log in to unlock full access and continue with this quiz and download the printable pdf with all questions and answers.
