What role does the CRNA play in anesthesia care?

The role of a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) primarily involves administering anesthesia and monitoring patients throughout the perioperative period. CRNAs are advanced practice nurses who have specialized education and training in anesthesia care, enabling them to deliver anesthesia legally and safely in various settings including hospitals and outpatient facilities.

Part of their responsibilities includes not only the administration of anesthetic agents but also the continuous monitoring of the patient's vital signs and physiological responses during surgery, ensuring that any changes are readily addressed. This comprehensive approach is paramount to patient safety and effective anesthesia management.

In contrast, performing surgery independently falls outside the scope of practice for CRNAs, as they do not have the training or licensure to conduct surgical procedures. Assessing psychological readiness for surgery is typically addressed by other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists or anesthesiologists, rather than CRNAs. Similarly, providing postoperative physical therapy is the domain of physical therapists, as it focuses on rehabilitation rather than anesthesia care. These aspects help to define and clarify the CRNA's specialized role within the broader healthcare team.