Alaina
Do nurse anesthetists work very closely with anesthesiologists?
I am planning on being a nurse anesthetist. I would like to learn as much as I can about this job and maybe even get some experience to make sure it is what I want. #nurse #anesthetist
3 answers
Aijaz Pasha
Aijaz’s Answer
A nurse anesthetist is a registered nurse who works closely with doctors to administer and monitor a patient's anesthesia for medical procedures. If you enjoy helping people, have a keen eye for detail, and are interested in a demanding but rewarding career, you might consider becoming a nurse anesthetist. Schools offering Nursing degrees can also be found in these popular choices
A nurse anesthetist is an advanced practice nurse who specializes in administering anesthetics to patients and coordinating their care with other medical professionals. He or she may remain with a patient from pre-operative procedures through surgery and into recovery, ensuring that a patient is as safe and comfortable as possible. As a nurse anesthetist, you may work in several different medical settings, such as surgery clinics, dental clinics, or hospital operating rooms. As a result, the types of patients you care for might vary widely and include trauma victims, obstetrics patients, surgery patients, and patients managing chronic pain problems
Kerrie Chambers, MSN, RN, CNOR, CNS-CP, CLNC
Kerrie’s Answer
CRNAs practice in every setting in which anesthesia is delivered: traditional hospital surgical suites and obstetrical delivery rooms; critical access hospitals; and ambulatory surgical centers are the locations where CRNAs would most likely collaborate with an anesthesiologist for patient care.
A great resource for CRNAs is AANA.com
Ryan C
Ryan’s Answer
I am currently in CRNA school and will be graduating soon. CRNAs work in a variety of settings, both with and without anesthesiologists. Some CRNAs work independently while others work in a team. A lot of this depends on where you end of practice anesthesia and the setting. For example, at a large trauma facility, you are more likely to be working in a care team approach with an anesthesiologist. Or perhaps you will be practicing anesthesia in a rural town were you are the sole anesthesia provider.
Both are excellent options and I have been able to experience each as a student. I really enjoy working with anesthesiologists, but providing anesthesia independently is very satisfying. The good thing is you will always have options!
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