I need help with interview - CRNA role

Not a CRNA but I know that there is a huge dislike for and jealousy of CRNA's by Anesthesiologists.

Special skills - be sure you wake 'em up. I know that's not what you asked - couldn't resist.

Advanced role, historical role = before there were docs passing gas, nurses were doing it.

Have you shadowed a nurse anesthetist? Doing so may give you a better idea of the roles of a CRNA... one does NOT want to apply to anesthesia school without first knowing what it is they are going to do. Be forewarned. Also, explore the AANA website... some good info out there. Good luck.

1.What are actual or perceived barriers to practice or innovation?

The single greatest actual and/or perceived barrier to practice or innovation, which is purely geographic and institutional, is attempts to restrict practice by physician anesthesiologists. There aare no other barriers that i have encountered.

2. Are there any special skills that are needed to lead or influence others on the care team or within the organization?

Clinical skill is the single greatest asset. Even the most 'difficult' personality will garner respect in clinical decision making if the care team has witnessed competance in clinical skills. Beyond the immediate clinical situation a CRNA must have a combination of excellent clinical skills, an ability to work well with many personalities and levels of professionals, a calm and professional demeanor even during emergencies and an ability to mediate disagreaments sucessfully if the CRNA wishes to lead within an organization.

3. How are patient outcomes tracked or reported, so that the value of this advanced practice role contribution can be identified?

Every anesthesia department has a quality assurance and peer review program. patient outcomes are tracked based on a number of markers. Beyond the known high saftey record and excellent patient outcomes known to result from care by CRNA's, institutions can also easily determine that CRNAa are very cost effective.

Greg Stocks CRNA EJD

you can quote me...