CRNA vs. anesthesiologist

[jermaughan0814]

Besides the "Initials MD, vs CRNA" what are the practicing differerences between a CRNA and and anesthesiologist. For the CRNA's out there, what was it that led you to make the choice to become CRNA's vs. anesthesiologist. Also I am finishing my B.S. in nursing, and would love to persue a CRNA degree but I am cautious because of all of the physics involved. I would love any input on pro's and con's of this position. THANKS

[ebear, BSN, RN]

There is a HUGE difference. Finish your nursing studies then go work in the O.R. You'll find out...

[wtbcrna, MSN, DNP, CRNA]

Besides the "Initials MD, vs CRNA" what are the practicing differerences between a CRNA and and anesthesiologist. For the CRNA's out there, what was it that led you to make the choice to become CRNA's vs. anesthesiologist. Also I am finishing my B.S. in nursing, and would love to persue a CRNA degree but I am cautious because of all of the physics involved. I would love any input on pro's and con's of this position. THANKS

There is almost NO difference in the practice of a CRNA and an anesthesiologist as far as the OR goes. The only differences that you will see are in practices that utilize ACT model or individual practices that require supervision by MDAs.

Personally, already being a nurse and working in critical care it didn't make much sense to seriously consider becoming an MDA.

Besides there is no valid study that shows that MDAs are better than CRNAs.

[numb_crna]

There is a HUGE difference. Finish your nursing studies then go work in the O.R. You'll find out...

ebear-

Can you please be more specific regarding the "HUGE difference".

Thanks

RSS

[ebear, BSN, RN]

It's been my experience that the majority (not all) anesthesiologists cannot lift a finger to help themselves. The clinical aspect of providing anesthesia care is the same for both. Because they were RNs first, the CRNA seems to be more in tune with pt. care details and comfort measures. The MDAs I've worked with seem to be quite cocky and think they poop ice cream. Give me an excellent CRNA any day!!!! :cheers: I once worked with an MDA who put the pt. on "auto pilot" and walked up and down the hall reading the Wallstreet Journal ! Got to check those stocks ya know!!!!

[numb_crna]

Thanks for elaborating on your initial statement! As a practicing CRNA I very much appreciate nurses like yourself who identify the subtle differences in the practice of anesthesia from the nursing perspective and the practice of anesthesia from the medical perspective.

[ebear, BSN, RN]

urwlcm:Most anesthesiologists want you to :bowingpur (my experience only) There are exceptions, though!

[Biotechnology]

LOL!!!!...... I am going to add the surgeons in that statement too Ebear!!:sasq:(Don't you just want to do that to some docs....or anybody for that matter)

[ebear, BSN, RN]

I sure have had times I'd love to :nclr:(NUKE) a few of them, trust me!!!!

[jermaughan0814]

Thanks EBEAR for clearing that up. It helps, because I have worked in the or before but I live a very RURAL area, and there are NO anesthesiologist ONLY CRNA's. So I have never had the pleasure of having to "KISS UP" or witness their superiority. I must say though, that in our little local hospital the CRNA's have quite the attitude to . I guess it is a supply and demand thing, we get them their supplies because that is what they DEMAND. hahaha.

THanks again

[ebear, BSN, RN]

You're welcome ! I like your "supply and demand" explanation!! :lol2:

[mark2climb]

Keep in mind that anesthesiologists have four years of rigorous medical school and then three years of residency that is equivalent to two full time jobs. You'd expect them to know more medically than your average CRNA. Now, with that being said, I'm not saying that they can provide anesthesia in a safer manner but that is one of the differences.