A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed specialized training in anesthesia administration. These nurses provide support for obstetrical, surgical and trauma care by delivering anesthetics.
Nurse Anesthetist Education
Nurse anesthetists must first become a Registered Nurse (RN), which requires an undergraduate nursing degree and RN licensure. To become a CRNA, a RN must have at least one year of experience in acute care, complete an accredited program in nurse anesthesia, and pass a national certification test.
The scope of duties of nurse anesthetists falls into four categories: preanesthetic evaluation and preparation, anesthesia administration, postanesthesia care, and clinical and perianesthetic support. In some settings CRNAs also fulfill administrative roles, which can include the overall management of anesthesia departments. In such capacities, nurse anesthetists can be responsible for a department’s quality of service and efficiency and may oversee the budget, employee relations, recruitment, quality assurance, continuing education and risk management.
Nurse anesthetists are employed in a variety of settings, including hospital surgery departments, delivery rooms, ambulatory surgical centers, trauma hospitals, military healthcare facilities, and the offices of physicians who are in private practice. In rural areas, nurse anesthetists are often the sole anesthesia providers.
CRNAs are often required to work collaboratively with various physicians, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, podiatrists and dentists. However, because these nurses have received specialized training, they are often provided a great deal of professional respect and autonomy.
The average salary for CRNAs reflects the high responsibilities that accompany the job; according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2012 median salary for this profession was $148,000. Projected growth in this field is also good, as trends indicate that there is an increasing need for these types of specialty nurses throughout the country.
CRNAs shoulder a great deal of responsibility, but also enjoy a lot of independence. This career is ideal for people who are looking for intellectual challenge and a high level of autonomy in their every day work.
Frequently Asked Question(s)
Q:What is A Nurse Anesthetist? Can you define is easy words?
A:A nurse anesthetist is a healthcare professional who perform anesthesia on patients. These nurses are skilled in their area of expertise and usually assist doctors during surgery. Their main job duty is to administer anesthesia for relieving pain, surgery, and more. Take a look at our page for more information.
Q:Where do anesthesiologist work?
A:Anesthesiologists are trained physicians who administer anesthesia before, during, and after a surgery. These professionals can be found working in a number of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, offices of physicians, outpatient centers, and surgical hospitals. The income level will vary from state to state and will also depend upon other factors such as employer organization.
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