Description

JOB PURPOSE:   

As a member of the team, a CRNA is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who practices under the medical direction of anesthesiologists to deliver high-quality, patient centered, evidence-based anesthesia services. The CRNA cares for patients at all acuity levels in a variety of settings including but not limited to surgical, obstetrical, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Clinical responsibilities of the CRNA will be delegated by an anesthesiologist. Care is directed by an anesthesiologist who shares responsibility for the patient. With the direction of the anesthesiologist the CRNA will:

• Contribute to the preoperative collection and documentation of patient data
• Review, request, and order (as permitted by state law), laboratory/diagnostic studies
• Obtain, order, and administer pre-anesthetic medication or treatment
• Develop and implement an anesthesia care plan
• Obtain, prepare, and use equipment, invasive and non-invasive monitors supplies, and drugs for the administration of sedation and anesthesia; perform safety checks as needed
• Select, order, obtain, and administer analgesic and anesthetic agents, adjuvant drugs, accessory drugs, fluids, or blood products necessary to provide anesthesia services
• Perform all aspects of airway management
• Facilitate emergence and recovery from anesthesia by evaluating patient response, and selecting, ordering, and administering medications, fluids, and ventilator support to maintain patient stability during transfer
• Initiate and administer post-anesthesia pharmacological or fluid support of the cardiovascular system
• Initiate and administer respiratory support to ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation in the post-anesthesia period
• Evaluate the patient’s response to anesthesia and surgery; take appropriate corrective action during the post-anesthesia period
• Place and manage regional anesthetic techniques, as delineated by his or her clinical privileges or granted special privileges