What makes CRNA's unique?

[drum0]

Hey everybody,

I've been really considering the position for a CRNA but I can't quite distinguish what makes that role unique other than they can provide anesthesia. Is this all or am I missing something?

Thanks for your help :)

[beachgirl17]

Hi drum0. If you are a new RN, then you are most likely not qualified at this time. CRNAs usually have years of ICU or similar experience. Then, he/she goes to school for years to learn anesthesia. Then, he/she passes exams and then is a CRNA. CRNA school is 2-3 years (I think) on top of RN school. That is my understanding. Hope this helps.

[drum0]

Erm, well, I am just trying to distinguish the difference between CRNA's and other nurses... I haven't started classes yet, so I'm not even an RN :)

[roser13, ASN, RN]

The difference between RN's & CRNA's? Pretty much the same difference between RN's and any other advanced practice nurses....education. Lots of it.

[Otessa, BSN, RN]

More education, more risk, more pay.

[drum0]

What is it about their role and position that makes them so unique? I guess I'm just wondering why it's "more risk".

[drum0]

Thank you for all your replies so far :)

[MoLee228]

CRNA's provide anesthesia, just as an anesthesiologist would. In most states they can practice independently, which means they could be the sole person in charge of the patient's anesthesia. This is a HUGE responsibility, and the reason they require the extra experience and education. Even when they are MDA supervised, they still usually manage their cases start to finish.

CRNA's do not usually work on units or floors providing general nursing care as an RN would. They work in OR's at hospitals or outpatient surgery centers. When it comes down to it, a CRNA does the same thing an anesthesiologist does. You can't say that for many other nursing specialties.

[roser13, ASN, RN]

You will understand more as you progress in your studies. More education = more awareness of the responsibilities of various medical personnel.

[MoLee228]

I forgot to mention that many CRNA's work outside of the OR...in labor & delivery doing epidurals, providing specialized pain management, regional blocks, etc. But, wherever they work, the stakes are pretty much always high.

[kanzi monkey]

Just noticed that someone posted this. The article focuses on the financial aspect, but gives a decent description of CRNAs nonetheless

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Specialist-nurses-paid-higher-hmoney-2327465018.html?x=0

[~Mi Vida Loca~RN, ASN, RN]

What is it about their role and position that makes them so unique? I guess I'm just wondering why it's "more risk".

it's more risk because it is a much higher chance something can go wrong because of what you are giving and where you might be giving it sometimes. So a persons life or them getting a disability are at higher risk. I mean anytime you give meds of course there is a risk for nurses. But the nature and the placement (IE, if they are getting an epidural or spinal block) if done wrong and even if not done wrong, can cause some serious damage or death. You will want a very good malpractice ins. in this field for that very reason to. I am sure it's even required I would think but you will want to be well covered.