Behind the Mask: A Look at the Nurse Anesthetist

Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) specialize in the practice of anesthesia. They were among the first nursing specialty groups recognized within the profession of nursing and in the community, and have been practicing the art of anesthesia for over 100 years. CRNAs administer more than 65% of all the anesthetics administered in the United States. In more than two thirds of all rural hospitals in the United States, CRNAs are the sole providers of all anesthetics administered.