By Tanisha Berg


Anesthesia is a requirement in the more than 34 million surgical procedures than take place annually in the United States. Although surgical skills largely determine the success of an operation, the anesthesiologist plays an equally important role. Certified nurse anesthetist programs provide a foundation for those interested in a career working in obstetrical or surgical centers, as well as in dentistry, podiatry, and other related fields.

Two specialized groups of medical technicians can administer anesthesia. Doctors traditionally hold this position after successfully completing medical school and residency, in addition to obtaining a three-year graduate degree. A certified nurse with the same job function is trained in methods of advanced practice, has real-life experience in hospital acute care, and has completed all educational requirements, including graduate work.

The responsibilities of an anesthetist are critical. These individuals must closely observe patients prior to a procedure and during the operation to make sure they are responding properly. Afterward, they are responsible for helping people regain consciousness safely, and must thoroughly explain that process ahead of time. They prepare the appropriate chemical anesthesia prior to surgery, monitor all physical signs during an operation, and constantly control the ongoing administration of drugs.

There is an expectation of high competency levels, and the required higher education is commensurate. Those intent on pursuing this career successfully graduate high school, and then continue their education with a four year Bachelor of Science in health-related fields as preparation for obtaining a registered nursing license. Additional requirements include an accredited graduate degree in an associated anesthesia program.

Those programs not only include advanced training in biochemistry, physics, and anatomy, but also in advanced studies in physiology and pathophysiology, as well as pharmacology as it relates to anesthesia. Practical experience and training in a university or community medical center is also required prior to taking and passing a recognized certification program that meets all modern medical standards and practices.

The importance of this specialized field cannot be overemphasized. While doctors were once the sole administrators of anesthetics during surgery, anesthetists today are primarily responsible for this job in most rural areas, and in many urban centers. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) have helped develop and promote these skills during the past century.

People successfully completing these programs often enjoy six-figure salaries. The field is growing, and the need for competent, fully-trained technicians shows little sign of decreasing. Although the cost of completing the educational requirements are not insignificant, they are still lower than training a doctor for the same tasks, and this impact on the financial bottom line is important to medical center administrators.

People considering this career option must be comfortable working directly with patients, and should be comfortable around high-tech equipment and needles. Work hours can be arduous, with little room for making mistakes with the lives of others. Although some nurses in this field still work together with a doctor, they are increasingly becoming the primary administrators of anesthesia during surgical procedures.




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