Your Care Team
Your anesthesia care team is made up of an anesthesiologist, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), or both.
What is an anesthesiologist?
Anesthesiologists are physicians who have completed 4 years of undergraduate education, 4 years of medical school and 4 years of anesthesia specific residency training. Trained in peri-operative medicine, they help ensure a safe surgical experience before, during and after one’s surgery/ procedure.
What is Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)?
A CRNA is an advanced practice registered nurses who has an unencumbered license as a registered professional nurse and/or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in the United States, has ICU nursing experience and has graduated with a minimum of a master’s degree from an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program. They work independently or alongside anesthesiologists to ensure patient safety and comfort before, during, and after surgery.
What is an anesthesia care team?
An anesthesia care team consists of a physician anesthesiologist and a CRNA. They collaborate on the care and safety of each person they care for, before, during and after a surgery/procedure. Care teams are a common form of anesthesia staffing in the United States and can involve a supervising physician and CRNA who manages the intraoperative delivery of anesthesia.
Will an anesthesia professional be with me during my surgery?
Yes. An anesthesiologist or CRNA will always be with you during your surgery to monitor you and ensure you are as safe and comfortable as possible.
Where can I learn more?
To learn more about anesthesiologists click here: https://madeforthismoment.asahq.org/
To learn more about CRNAs click here: https://www.aana.com/about-us/about-crnas/
