Who we are
Anesthesia Answers exists to demystify anesthesia care and highlight the critical role CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologistsSometimes called a CRNA, nurse anesthesiologist, or nurse anesthetist, these are advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) who specialize in administering anesthesia for surgical, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures. play in keeping patients safe. Our goals are to improve patient safety and outcomes, strengthen public trust in and understanding of CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists, and empower patients to be active participants in their own care.
We believe everyone deserves health information they can understand, use, and trust. That’s why everything on Anesthesia Answers is written in plain, inclusive language and grounded in the same clinical expertise CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists bring to every patient. Whether you’re preparing for a procedure, supporting a loved one, or just looking for answers, we’re here to help you be informed and confident throughout your anesthesia experience.
All content is researched and reviewed by CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists affiliated with the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). If you have questions, comments, or ideas for Anesthesia Answers, get in touch!
For patients, by nurse anesthesiologists
CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists are advanced practice registered nursesRegistered Nurses (RNs) who have a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing and special certification. These nurses can treat and manage patient problems, prescribe medications, and order tests. who specialize in anesthesia care. They are among the most extensively trained clinicians in the country, completing graduate-level education, years of training in critical care settings, and national board certification. But their role isn’t just technical. CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists provide individualized, patient-centered care, and they’re with you every step of the way.
Whether working on a team or independently, they manage every phase of anesthesia:
- Evaluating patients before procedures
- Developing individualized anesthesia plans
- Monitoring patients throughout anesthesia or sedation
- Managing recovery
- Ensuring patients are safe and cared for the entire time
CRNAs at a glance
About AANA
The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) has championed the nurse anesthesiology profession since 1931. Through education, advocacy, research, and professional development, we empower CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to drive innovation in anesthesia care and deliver the highest standard of patient safety and outcomes.
Anesthesia Answers is an extension of that mission, bringing trusted, accessible anesthesia information to the public to deepen understanding of CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and advance patient safety for everyone.