CRNA jobs FAQs

What is a CRNA?

A CRNA is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in administering anesthesia and managing patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. CRNAs are highly trained professionals who often work independently or alongside anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient centers, and military facilities.

What qualifications do I need as a CRNA?

To become a CRNA in the US, you need to have the following qualifications: 

1. Bachelor’s degree: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a related field. 

2. Registered nurse (RN) licensure: An RN license in the US or its territories. 

3. Doctoral degree: A graduate-level nurse anesthesia program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). As of recent standards, this must be a doctoral degree (e.g., Doctor of Nursing Practice or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice). 

4. Certification exam: The National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). 

Even after becoming a CRNA, you’ll need to pursue continuing education to maintain your certification through ongoing professional development and periodic recertification.

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a CRNA?

As a CRNA, you may perform a wide range of tasks, with several responsibilities being part of your daily routine, including: 

• Preparing patients for anesthesia through assessments and pre-op education 
• Administering and maintaining anesthesia throughout procedures 
• Managing patient recovery and monitoring post-anesthesia responses 
• Creating personalized anesthesia plans 
• Administering various types of anesthesia 
• Collaborating with healthcare teams 
• Documenting procedures and patient responses 
• Staying updated through continuing education 

Where do CRNAs work?

In the US, CRNAs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including: 

• Hospital operating rooms (ORs) 
• Postanesthesia care units (PACUs) 
• Emergency rooms (ERs) 
• Outpatient surgery centers 
• Labor and delivery units 
• Physician offices 
• Dental offices 
• Military and veteran healthcare facilities 

How will I know the status of my application?

At SUMO, our CRNA recruitment specialists are committed to keeping you in the loop throughout every step of your application journey. From your first inquiry to final placement, we’re here to provide clear guidance, personalized support, and expert insight. Have questions along the way? Make sure to contact us and one of our specialist recruiters will be in touch.