General Information

Qualifications

Completion of a Master of Science Degree in Nursing or graduate level anesthesia program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia. Mandatory national certification examination, continuing education, and recertification required.

What they do

In this oldest of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse roles, Certfied Registered Nurse Anesthetists may conduct:

• Pre-anesthesia preparation and evaluation of the client
• Administer anesthesia
• Manage post-anesthesia recovery
• Insert central vascular access catheters and epidural catheters 
• Consult on respiratory and ventilatory care 
• Initiate and manage pain relief therapy according to established policies and protocols within the practice setting

Certfied Registered Nurse Anesthetists collaborate with Anesthesiologists, Physicians, Dentists, and/or Podiatrists, in almost every setting in which anesthesia is given – Operating Rooms, Doctor’s Offices, Ambulatory Surgical settings.

Who regulates

Board of Nursing