This document has been prepared by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) to provide information about the qualifications and capabilities of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). The practice of anesthesia is a recognized specialty within the profession of nursing. As one of the first nursing specialty groups, CRNAs have a longstanding commitment to high standards in a demanding field. As independently licensed healthcare professionals, CRNAs are responsible and accountable for their practice.
In order to be a CRNA one must:
Graduate from a nurse anesthesia educational program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) or its predecessor.
Pass the certification examination administered by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists or its predecessor.