Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

The Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) administers anesthesia under the supervision of the Attending Anesthesiologist, administers local, inhalation, intravenous and other anesthetics prescribed during surgery, deliveries or other medical procedures. Institutes resuscitative procedures throughout the hospital, including the recovery room, and is available at all times while on duty.

Responsibilities:

• Performs complete pre-anesthesia assessment including laboratory and diagnostic studies. Includes important aspects of patient history and physical. Aware of and fully comprehends history, physical, and laboratory data. Establishes good rapport with patients. Anticipates needs and possible problems. Consults with NP/MD as indicated.
• Appropriately prepares for case management. Assembles all essential equipment in an orderly manner. Has equipment ready and in working condition to safely administer anesthesia. Demonstrates knowledge of anticipated needs. Prepares patients for anesthesia to include explaining procedures and positioning patient on the surgical table.
• Develops plan of care for anesthetic management in a systematic manner based on assessment, interpretation and anticipated procedure. Recognizes patient difficulties.
• Demonstrates professional competence in administering and managing anesthetic techniques including regional anesthesia (subarachnoid, epidural, upper and lower extremity blocks, local infiltration, topical, transtracheal blocks), intrascapular, sedation and monitored anesthesia care techniques, CPR, invasive and noninvasive monitoring, airway management techniques, mechanical ventilation/oxygen therapy, fluid, electrolyte acid base management, blood, blood products, plasma expanders, peripheral intravenous/arterial catheter placements.
• Exhibits technical ability to keep patient safe and comfortable at all times. Recognizes problems and takes appropriate corrective action including seeking consultation. Adapts with composure to changing situations and demonstrates good judgment in emergency situations. Remains alert and is aware of surgical events taking place. Keeps accurate records of pertinent information. Coordinates with appropriate health care providers.
• Responsible for post anesthesia care, discharge and handoff reporting. Documents all nursing actions and care appropriately.
• Orients and evaluates new CRNAs as directed. Mentors and evaluates nurse anesthesia students as directed.
• Completes continuing education, professional development and in-service programs to meet regulatory and job requirements. Keeps current on trends and developments in area of practice.
• Responds appropriately in emergency situations.
• Keeps leadership informed of any problems or concerns.
• Participates in performance improvement activities, departmental committees and other operational projects as assigned.
• Promotes a safe, clean environment.
• Presents and promotes a professional demeanor at all times, establishes high standards of customer service, supports responsibility, pride, and teamwork, remains calm under pressure, and offers reasonable solutions for problems.
• Demonstrates appropriate interaction with and provides recommended care and services to all patients.
• Ensures the delivery of age appropriate, culturally sensitive, and ethical care for patients.
• Applies knowledge of principles of standard precautions. Routinely uses PPE to avoid risk of exposure to self and others.
• Takes appropriate care of material resources and equipment.

Education: Master's degree from a school of nurse anesthesia approved by the State Accrediting Agency and the Council on Accreditation of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) required.

Licensure/Certification:

• Currently certified as a CRNA by the AANA.
• Current licensure as a Registered Nurse in the state of North Carolina.
• Certified in ACLS, BLS and PALs

Experience: At least one year experience as a CRNA desired.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Able to pay keen attention to details at all times.
• Must display a high level of understanding and patience when dealing/working with patients.
• Able to build positive relationships with providers, teammates and also patients who may have limitations due to their disease process or mental capacity. Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Able to coordinate different activities simultaneously and manage stress appropriately.
• Able to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Able to work effectively in an environment notable for complex, sometimes contradictory information.
• Good organizational abilities.
• Able to read, write and communicate effectively in English.
• Proficient with Epic and able to learn new software rapidly.