PRN Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Summary

The Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) provides anesthesia services to patients across the enterprise. The CRNA will perform safety inspections on anesthesia machines and assist with the preparation of supplies, monitoring lines and other anesthesia related equipment such as fluid warmers and warning blankets. He or she will seek prompt consultation from appropriate department members or help arrange for maintenance of malfunctioning equipment.

Accountabilities

• Make preoperative visits, assess the patient's condition, discuss anesthetic management and administer anesthesia, all with consultation of the appropriate staff anesthesiologist in accordance with accepted standards of professional practice, licensing laws.
• Assemble, prepare, and test needed supplies and equipment prior to an anesthetic for self and colleagues, as needed.
• Assist in preparing the patient in the operative room.
• Apply, insert and utilize various monitoring equipment including arterial, CVP and SG catheter lines, oximetry, capnography and peripheral nerve stimulators.
• Administer various types of anesthesia, including inhalation, intravenous, spinal, epidural and nerve blocks. All anesthesia is administered under the supervision and attendance of staff anesthesiologists.
• Maintain the anesthetic state according to current standards, keep the anesthesiologist and surgeon informed as to the patient's condition, and be competent to deal with anesthetic emergencies.
• Record the preoperative, operative and postoperative data describing the condition of the patient. Record the drugs used for anesthesia. This information is transcribed on progress notes and the anesthesia record in accordance with correct charting techniques. This information is the permanent record concerning the anesthetic.
• Aid in the postoperative care of the patient, remain with the patient until transfer to the PAR or SICU and check periodically on the postoperative condition.
• Give a full report to the receiving nurse (PAR, SICU, etc.) and verify initial vital signs before transfer is complete.
• Aid in the evaluation and care of the intubated and/or ventilated ICU patient as directed.
• Participate as a member of the Cardiac Resuscitation Team.
• Aid in the practical instruction of techniques of anesthesiology to interns, residents, medical students and supportive staff.
• Participate in the care and maintenance of equipment as necessary.
• Participate in the Quality Improvement activities of the Anesthesia Department.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (Required)
• Master's Degree Graduation from an approved CRNA school (Required)
• 0-1 years Accredited anesthesia school, prior experience not necessary.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to take the initiative in decision making.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions.
• Ability to be responsive to the needs of a variety of customers at the same time.
• Ability to balance independent activity and physician supervision.