Purpose:

The Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) administers and monitors the anesthetized patient during surgical procedures, which may include those receiving open heart surgery, obstetric and radiologic procedures. They are also members of the Code Blue Team. Off-site responsibilities may include providing anesthesia services under the direct supervision of the surgeon or proceduralist.

Responsibilities:

Performs and documents a pre anesthesia assessment of the patient and interprets the data. Under the direction of the Anesthesiologist or Proceduralist selects appropriate anesthetic. Administers anesthetic in accordance with clinical privileges delineated and any restrictions imposed. Selects, applies and inserts appropriate noninvasive and invasive monitoring modalities. Monitors, interprets and evaluates information derived from monitors intraoperatively on the patient. Selects, obtains and administers adjunct and accessory drugs and fluids necessary to manage the anesthetic. Manages the patient's airway and pulmonary status. Facilitates emergence and recovery from anesthesia. Performs post operative evaluation of the patient and remains immediately available within the department until all patients are physically discharged from facility or are admitted to nursing unit. Reviews all medical records of patients scheduled for surgery at least 2 days prior to surgery to allow sufficient time to intervene and address additional needs of the patients as necessary. Demonstrates compliance with all hospital wide competencies: Patient Rights and Organizational Ethics; Performance Improvement; Core Values, Mission and Vision; and Minimal Job Requirements Operates equipment/skills pertinent to practice area. Performs other duties as assigned.