Job Description of a Certified Registered Anesthetist Nurse
A certified registered anesthetist nurse, or CRNA, is a type of registered nurse (RN) specifically trained to administer drugs to induce anesthesia. Usually, CRNAs are found in hospitals, physicians' offices and nursing care facilities. They belong to a group of RNs who specialize in particular areas of nursing.
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Pre-Surgical Duties
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Before surgery, the CRNA performs an assessment of the patient. This is done to determine the appropriate anesthesia dosage and, thus, prevent potential harm. The CRNA administers the drugs to induce anesthesia, blocking sensation temporarily so patients can undergo surgery without feeling pain.
Surgical Duties
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During surgery, the CRNA makes sure that the patient is properly sedated and impervious to pain. If not, the patient's recovery period can be prolonged. The CRNA also checks the patient's vital signs during surgery, and in some cases, adjusts the level of anesthesia accordingly.
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Post-Surgical/Other Duties
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After surgery, the CRNA oversees the patient's post-procedural recovery, including basic needs such as walking and eating. CRNAs also provide emotional support to patients and their families, making them essential to the overall welfare of patients and major agents of direct patient care.
Collaboration
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Due to their role designation, CRNAs commonly work with anesthesiologists--physicians trained in anesthesia and peri-operative medicine--as well as surgeons whose procedures require anesthesia. These surgeons include podiatrists (dedicated to taking care of the foot, ankle and lower leg), dentists (care of teeth and surrounding structures) and even veterinarians and other medical specialties.
Educational Requirements
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Usually, RNs are required to have at least an associate of science degree in nursing, which can be earned in two years from community colleges or technical schools. Many have bachelor's degrees. After graduation, aspiring RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse) to acquire the license to practice nursing. RNs who wish to become CRNAs need a bachelor's degree, a master's degree in nurse anesthesia and some experience in an acute care nursing setting.
Salary and Job Outlook
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According to salary.com, as of June 2010 the median annual salary of CRNAs is $154,000. This is more than twice what RNs reportedly make; salary.com places their median annual salary at about $64,000. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, CRNAs are part of the 2.6 million RNs in the country in 2008, and the agency expects 581,500 new nursing jobs to be added to the workforce by 2018.
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