A Guide for RNs/APRNs: Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice

As an RN or APRN considering a career as a CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist, it is crucial to understand the standards that guide nurse anesthesiology practice. The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology has established comprehensive standards to support high-quality, safe anesthesia care with a focus on patient safety. This guide will help you familiarize yourself with these standards and prepare for your future role as a CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist.

Patient-Centered Care

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Respect patient autonomy, dignity, and privacy
• Support patient needs and safety
• Obtain informed consent for anesthesia care
• Communicate effectively with patients and their family/caregivers

Key skills to develop: Strong interpersonal communication and patient advocacy

Comprehensive Patient Assessment

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Perform a thorough preanesthesia evaluation
• Conduct an anesthesia-focused physical assessment
• Formulate a patient-specific anesthesia care plan

Key skills to develop: Advanced health assessment, pharmacology, physiology, and critical thinking

Documentation and Communication

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete anesthesia care records
• Communicate effectively with the healthcare team
• Transfer care appropriately, ensuring continuity

Key skill to develop: Clear and concise medical documentation and communication

Equipment Proficiency

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Conduct appropriate equipment checks
• Verify equipment function before each anesthetic
• Operate equipment safely to minimize risks

Key skill to develop: Technical proficiency with anesthesia equipment

Patient Management and Monitoring

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Implement and modify anesthesia care plans as needed
• Continuously assess patient response to anesthesia
• Monitor oxygenation, ventilation, cardiovascular status, and temperature

Key skills to develop: Vigilance and independent decision-making

Safety and Infection Control

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Adhere to infection prevention and control policies
• Participate in a culture of safety
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams

Key skill to develop: Strict adherence to safety protocols and teamwork

Professional Development and Well-being

As a CRNA, you’ll be expected to:

• Participate in ongoing quality improvement processes
• Maintain physical and mental wellness
• Engage in life-long learning and skill development

Key skills to develop: Self-awareness and commitment to lifelong learning

Becoming a CRNA requires a strong skillset to serve as the foundation for these standards. As you progress in your nursing career, focus on developing the key skills mentioned above. Remember, these standards are the minimum expectations – exceptional CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists often go above and beyond to provide safe, equitable, and efficient patient care.

See Standards or Nurse Anesthesia Practice for more information.