Nurse anesthetist

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Catherine Lawrence in a photograph taken during the Civil War

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Nurse anesthetist

A nurse anesthetist is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in the administration of anesthesia. Nurse anesthetists are integral members of the healthcare team, providing anesthesia and related care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures.

History

The role of the nurse anesthetist dates back to the American Civil War, where nurses administered anesthesia to soldiers. The profession has evolved significantly since then, with formal education programs and certification processes established to ensure high standards of care.

Education and Certification

To become a nurse anesthetist, one must first obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a related field, followed by obtaining a license as a Registered Nurse (RN). After gaining experience in a critical care setting, the nurse must complete a graduate-level nurse anesthesia program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). Upon completion, the individual must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).

Scope of Practice

Nurse anesthetists are trained to provide a wide range of anesthesia services, including:

• General anesthesia
• Regional anesthesia
• Local anesthesia
• Sedation

They work in various settings, such as hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, pain management clinics, and military medical facilities.

Professional Organizations

Several professional organizations support nurse anesthetists, including:

• American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA)
• International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists (IFNA)

Roles and Responsibilities

Nurse anesthetists are responsible for:

• Conducting pre-anesthetic assessments
• Developing anesthesia care plans
• Administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during procedures
• Providing post-anesthesia care
• Managing pain relief

Job Outlook and Salary

The demand for nurse anesthetists is expected to grow due to the increasing need for healthcare services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for nurse anesthetists is significantly higher than the average for all occupations.

See Also

• Anesthesiologist
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
• Advanced practice registered nurse
• Anesthesia