Specialty Organizations & Communities

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Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice nurses trained to administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or other procedures. CRNAs meet with patients and initiate a pre-operative interview to determine what anesthesia would be suitable. They answer any questions or concerns, monitor the patient closely under anesthesia, wake the person afterward, and may escort them to the recovery area. Some CRNAs work collaboratively with other anesthesiologists; others can work independently depending on their location, and in some states, a CRNA can prescribe medication independently.

Education Requirements

CRNAs must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and successfully pass the state's NCLEX-RN exam. Nurses with ADN degrees will need to obtain their BSN first or combine a BSN to an MSN or BSN to doctoral degree program. Nurses should have at least a year of experience, preferably with critical care experience, before pursuing a CRNA career.

CRNAs must complete an MSN; however, by 2025, all CRNAs programs are intending to transition to doctoral training (DNAP). All programs must be accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) and include all necessary clinical hours.

How to advance/career pathway

After completing your CRNA program, apply and take the CRNA exam to gain certification.

Apply for your state licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).

Each state has different rules about licensing and certification. You can check your state’s status here and here.

In addition, CRNAs often take out their own malpractice insurance.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Evaluate the patient prior to surgery or the procedure
Determine the type of anesthesia to administer and maintain proper levels
Intubate patient if needed and manage the ventilator
Ensure equipment works accurately
Monitor vital signs and protect the patient from injury
Communicate patient status to the physician and operative staff

MOST COMMON CASES

It entirely depends on the setting. CRNAs see a wide variety of cases from children to the elderly.

How to become a

Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Complete an ADN or BSN program in nursing
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for your RN license
Have one to two years of experience working as an RN preferably in critical care settings
Apply and complete either an MSN (until 2025) or DNAP program to become a CRNA
Apply and take your CRNA exam to gain certification and obtain licensing per your state’s rules

Specialty Groups and Communities

The Pros

High degree of autonomy and professional respect
Enjoys gaining the trust of anxious patients
Satisfaction at the end of a surgery that goes well
Increased responsibility but still can defer to anesthesiologists if needed

The Cons

Must obtain and maintain more education
Increased liability risk and may need malpractice insurance
Exposure to bodily fluids and air-borne communicable diseases
Political differences with MD Anesthesiologists at times

Personality Traits

Critical thinker, quick decision-maker
Focused, attentive, and calm
Works well in stressful situations
Excellent communicator

Average Salary

Nurse Anesthetists typically make between $93k - $189k, with a median salary of $147,237. For the most up-to-date salary information, check out Salary Explorer.