What will I do in this job?
The chief responsibility of the nurse anesthetist is the administration of drugs and gases to produce anesthesia in a variety of settings.
If you plan to become a nurse anesthetist, you will:
- assist in preoperative care of the patients and in the management of respiratory problems in ancillary departments
- help to educate other hospital staff regarding airway management
- need considerable skill and dedication to the team concept of anesthesia care
- need the ability to work independently
- work in multiple ancillary departments, emergency rooms and dental offices
What type of education will I need?
This specialty in nursing is similar to specialties in medicine as the state licensing is obtained by completing an approved course in nursing and passing the board examination. Certification is then obtained by passing a qualifying exam from the Council on Certification of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetist, with the title Certified Registered Nurse anesthetist (CRNA) being conferred. Recertification is required every two years in nursing and anesthesia and includes the completion of continuing education units.
Will I need a special license?
Admission to nurse anesthesia education programs requires graduation form an approved school of nursing, a BSN or other appropriate bachelor’s degree, current licensure as a registered professional nurse and a minimum of one year professional nursing experience in an acute care setting.
Will I find a job?
F aster than average growth in the employment of RNs is expected through 2006. Nurses with specialized skills and advanced knowledge of anesthetics can expect to find opportunities in a variety of practical settings such as hospital operating rooms, and physician’s offices. Many nurse anesthetists find opportunities in conjunction with not only surgeons, but also dentists, podiatrists, and anesthesiologists.
How much will I make?
Median Salary: $107,819 (Ranges from $98,000-$116,000)
(2000-2003)
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