Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) provide and administer anesthetics to patients in a variety of workplace settings. The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) reports that nurse anesthetists in the United States safely provide over 50 million doses of anesthetics to patients.

Nurse anesthetists collaborate closely with physicians to provide optimal care for patients. In the case of surgery, they serve on the front line of ensuring a safe and successful operating room experience. They monitor each patient’s vital signs throughout the surgical procedure and make informed medical decisions about whether to administer more medication.

Before a medical procedure, nurse anesthetists administer tests to ensure that patients are not allergic to any anesthesia medications. They also review the patient’s medical history and ensure that no medication interferes with anesthesia. Another responsibility is educating patients, families, and caregivers on the process of administering anesthetics, as well as answering questions about what a patient might expect when they wear off.

Workplace environment

If you pursue a career as a CRNA, you may work in a variety of settings throughout your career. If you are interested in a fast-paced work environment, the emergency room may be the best environment for you. If the challenges of the emergency room or intensive care unit are not a good fit, you can work in a dentist’s office, plastic surgeon’s office, or even an outpatient clinic. Nurse anesthetists have the flexibility to choose among many health care settings.

Skill set

If you decide to pursue a career as a CRNA, you’ll need a developed set of skills to help you provide optimal care. A good understanding of the nurse anesthetist job description will help you learn the value of certain competencies, including analytical, communication, technological, and organizational skills.

● Analytical skills: CRNAs analyze a patient's health records before administering anesthetics to help them provide the safest, most effective results. They must decide whether they will administer general anesthesia, regional or local anesthesia, or intravenous sedation.
● Communication skills: Patients may have concerns about anesthesia before an operation. CRNAs provide them with useful information and answer their questions. Some CRNAs may even explain the whole anesthetic process from pre- to post-surgery.
● Technological skills: The importance of technological skills in the health care industry continue to grow. CRNAs must access and interpret electronic health records and stay up to date on the latest medical technology.
● Organizational skills: A CRNA’s organizational skills allow them to effectively manage complex tasks and responsibilities. For example, during surgery, they monitor a patient’s oxygen levels, temperature, cardiovascular stats, and ventilation.