Question for CRNAs

This may seem like an odd question but here it goes. If a CRNA wishes, can they work as a Registered Nurse as well as an anesthetist?

One could, theoretically, work as an RN having the CRNA title....however, you will be held to a different standard having advanced training. Same as n RN working in an LVN role.

Why would you want to? I don't know what the laws are, but you would most definitely be held to a a higher standard of care. In my hospital, my skills are needed in the OR, they are not going to let anesthetists float down to the floors. Not to mention the money. And realistically, going from total autonomy in the OR to calling the Dr. for everything/following protocols would be very difficult. I can assure you won't lose your skills in the OR and you get plenty of patient contact. You will learn to quickly form a strong rapport with the patient, feel the intense trust they have placed in you by letting you put them under, and great satisfaction as you wake them safely and send them pain free to the recovery room. It is your job to keep them safe during surgery with proper positioning, keeping pt warm, keeping surgical team from leaning on patient's face, etc, etc. It is about the most intense nurse/patient relationship there is. If its more money your looking for, try doing locums (travel) during your time off.

A reason I asked is because I wasn't sure how much interaction I would have with patients.

Thanks for your responses!

I think we get a lot of interaction with patients. You might take care of a couple patients a day or many, and not all patients have general anesthetics. For example, when I do cataracts, I might take care of as many as 10-12 patients who are awake, leaving lots of time to talk with them while they are in the Or or while transporting. Our job is great because you get to see the fruits of your labor, so to speak. Its a great feeling when you develop a relationship with your patient, give them a safe, quality anesthetic, and deliver them comfortably to PACU. You may see some patients coming back for multiple surgeries, so there can be some continuity. And on the flip side, when you have a patient who is a PIA, you get to put them to sleep! Hope this helps.

No way could I afford that paycut.

Me neither!!!

I actually don't want that much interaction with some of my patients!!!! ha, ha!