COVID Guidance

Confronting COVID-19 in the Clinical Setting

Excellence in care, safety, and continuous improvement of care are hallmarks of the anesthesia profession. Nurse anesthetists may be called upon to care for patients infected with COVID-19. The AANA is committed to supporting CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and the healthcare team to safely deliver patient care while maintaining the health of the nurse anesthetist and the families and the community they serve.

The AANA recognizes that as COVID-19 continues to put strain on hospitals around the country, all healthcare providers can play a critical role in managing the delivery of care. During this time, it is essential for each facility to optimize its healthcare workforce and utilize CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists as advanced practice nurses.

CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists can play an important role in providing life-saving critical care management for patients impacted by the COVID-19 virus in their APRN role. CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists are prepared to practice autonomously and are qualified to make independent judgments based on their education, licensure and certification.

COVID Resources

Position Statements

COVID-19 Vaccination Position Statement Resuming Elective, Non-Urgent Gastrointestinal Procedures during the COVID-19 Pandemic The Use of Personal Protective Equipment by Anesthesia Professionals during the COVID-19 Pandemic CRNAs Asked to Assume Critical Care Responsibilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Additional Guidance

CRNAs as Advanced Practice Providers in Critical Care Settings Utilizing CRNAs Unique Skill Set During COVID-19 Crisis