Happy National CRNA week! We celebrate these 48,000+ providers during the week of January 24 – January 30.
CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) credentialing became available in 1956 and has grown significantly across America since then. There are many people that do not understand completely what a CRNA does so let me explain. A CRNA is a licensed practitioner that goes through many months of extra schooling while working toward their graduate level education in nurse anesthesia. They are responsible for the patient safety and anesthesia before, during and after surgery of any kind depending on where they are working. They can work independently or with other physicians.
CRNAs are the primary providers of anesthesia to many rural American facilities. They provide care in all areas that anesthesia may be administered including dental offices and pain management facilities. Before a provider can become a CRNA they must first complete a BSN in Nursing from an accredited school and pass the boards. There are many RNs today that look into the CRNA program once they finish with their nursing schooling, as it is wonderful job to have!
In many facilities, the CRNA may be the sole provider caring for patients. This usually occurs in rural towns across America. They hold a very important role when a patient is going into surgery, so this week and throughout the rest of the year, we want to make sure they are recognized and appreciated. Thank you for all you do!
Staci Neneman is the Branch Manager for the Advanced Practice division of Aureus Medical Group.