When considering a career in nurse anesthesia, individuals often have questions about the profession. The following includes answers to some of the most frequently asked questions and suggestions on where to get answers to other questions you may have. It is hoped that you will find this information useful in considering a career as a nurse anesthetist.
Nurse anesthesia is an advanced clinical nursing specialty.
A nurse attends an accredited Nurse Anesthesia Education Program to receive an extensive education in anesthesia. The major clinical component providing experience with a variety of anesthesia techniques and procedures for all types of surgery and obstetrics. Currently, a few Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs grant a professional certificate while the majority confer a master s degree in nursing, allied health, or biological and clinical sciences. Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs are modifying their curricula to meet the requirement that all programs offer a master s degree beginning in 1998. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing or another appropriate baccalaureate degree from an approved nursing program.