CRNA Frequently Asked Questions
Do CRNAs work with physicians?
Yes. Like all anesthesiaThe use of medications to temporarily block pain, sensations, and awareness during procedures and surgery. There are many different types of anesthesia that a CRNA can provide. professionals, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)Sometimes 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. work closely with the healthcare team to care for patients. This team includes surgeons and other physician specialists. Together, they focus on your safety and comfort.
State laws are different across the country. In more than half of all states, CRNAs do not need physician supervision. No matter the state, CRNAs are always responsible for their own actions. Surgeons rely on CRNAs as experts in anesthesia care.
What's the difference between a CRNA and a physician anesthesiologist?
CRNAs and physician anesthesiologistsSometimes simply called an "anesthesiologist," these are medical doctors who specialize in administering anesthesia for surgical, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures. both provide anesthesia services and work with the same types of physician specialists. When anesthesia is given by a CRNA, it is considered the practice of nursing. When a physician anesthesiologist gives anesthesia, it is considered the practice of medicine.
All anesthesia professionals use the same modern equipment and advanced techniques. Research shows that anesthesia care is just as safe and effective whether it is provided by a CRNA or a physician anesthesiologist. Many studies have found no difference in patient outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CRNAs.
Is anesthesia safe?
Yes. Anesthesia is much safer today because of better medications, improved technology, and advanced training for anesthesia professionals. According to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) anesthesia is nearly 50 times safer than it was 30 years ago.
In a 1999 report, the IOM named anesthesia as one of the safest areas of healthcare. Today, deaths related to anesthesia happen about once in every 250,000 to 300,000 anesthetics. This is true even though patients are older and often sicker than in the past. Studies continue to show that CRNAs and physician anesthesiologists provide the same high level of safe care.
How do CRNAs maintain certification?
To maintain certification, CRNAs must complete at least 100 hours of approved continuing education every four years. They must also show they are actively practicing anesthesia, keep their state license current, and confirm that they do not have any conditions that could affect their ability to provide safe anesthesia care.
How does CRNA education and training compare to that of physician anesthesiologists?
CRNAs and physician anesthesiologists receive similar education and training in anesthesia. Research shows that CRNAs provide anesthesia care that is just as safe and effective as that provided by physician anesthesiologists.
CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in anesthesia. They have strong backgrounds in critical care, advanced degrees, and years of focused training.
Information adapted from Anesthesia Facts FAQs.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a recommendation for any specific anesthesia technique, drug, or treatment. Users should consult a qualified medical professional before making any decisions regarding anesthesia care. For complete terms, see our Terms of Use.
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