Common Career Paths for CRNAs
The landscape of healthcare is evolving, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are at the forefront of this transformation. If you're a CRNA or an aspiring one, understanding the diverse career paths available to you can open doors to exciting and rewarding opportunities.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various avenues you can take as a CRNA, the benefits of each, and the steps to achieve your career goals.
The Rising Demand and Critical Role of CRNAs in Healthcare
The demand for CRNAs is skyrocketing. According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA), the career growth for CRNAs is steady, with an expected increase of 38% percent by 2032.
More than 50 million patients in the United States receive anesthesia from a CRNA each year, underscoring the critical role these advanced practice registered nurses play in healthcare.
The Financial Rewards
Beyond job security, CRNAs enjoy substantial financial rewards. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in May 2023 that nearly 47,810 nurse anesthetists are employed in the United States, earning a mean annual wage of $214,200.
Those working in outpatient centers earn even more, with an annual mean wage of $263,960. This financial stability, coupled with the autonomy and professional respect that comes with the role, makes a CRNA career highly attractive.
Different CRNA Practice Settings
CRNAs have the flexibility to work in various practice settings, each offering unique experiences and challenges. Whether you prefer the fast-paced environment of a hospital or the more controlled setting of an outpatient clinic, there's a place for you.
Hospital Surgical Suites
Hospital surgical suites remain a traditional and vital setting for CRNAs. Here, you may provide anesthesia to inpatients and outpatients, including children, adults, older adults, or during childbirth. Some hospitals have all-CRNA practices, while others have large anesthesiology teams.
Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs)
Ambulatory Surgery Centers are becoming increasingly common. According to Fortune Business Insights, the ASC market size is projected to grow from $34.73 billion in 2020 to $58.85 billion by 2028. This growth presents ample opportunities for CRNAs to thrive in an outpatient setting, performing a variety of surgical procedures.
Ketamine Clinics
CRNAs can also work in ketamine clinics, administering ketamine for sedation or infusing the drug to treat psychiatric disorders or chronic pain. This role involves patient monitoring, conducting assessments post-infusion, and collaborating with other healthcare team members.
Medical and Dental Practices
CRNAs are essential in medical and dental practices for podiatrists, ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons, and pain management specialists. While CRNAs in these settings typically earn less (with a mean annual wage of $194,240), the work-life balance and patient interaction can be incredibly rewarding.
Military and Public Health Service
CRNAs also serve in the military, public health service, and Veterans Affairs facilities. These roles can take you to naval ships, front lines, or aircraft evacuation teams, offering a unique blend of service and adventure.
CRNA Career Opportunities and Specializations
Another career path for CRNAs is working as a locum tenens nurse anesthetist, accepting temporary assignments across the country.
Benefits of Locum Tenens
Locum tenens CRNAs enjoy exploring new locations and working in various practice settings or with different patient types. They can earn an hourly pay rate ranging from $146 to $158, above the BLS reported mean hourly wage of $97.34.
Agency Support: Agencies like AMN Healthcare provide numerous benefits for locum tenens CRNAs, including paid housing, travel stipends, licensure and credentialing assistance, and malpractice insurance. This support makes it easier for CRNAs to focus on their clinical duties while enjoying the perks of travel and variety.
CRNA Specialization
Specializing in a particular area can enhance your career prospects and earning potential. Here are some common CRNA specializations:
Pediatrics: Pediatric CRNAs work in children's hospitals or specialized clinics, providing anesthesia to young patients. A certification in pediatric advanced life support (PALS) is often necessary.
Cardiology: Cardiac CRNAs specialize in administering anesthesia during heart surgeries and procedures. They typically work in cardiac care centers and may require additional training in cardiac life support (CLS).
Obstetrics: Obstetric CRNAs are involved in labor and delivery, providing anesthesia for cesarean sections and pain management. Certifications in advanced obstetric life support (AOLS) can be beneficial.
Plastic Surgery: CRNAs specializing in plastic surgery work with plastic surgeons in various settings. They need to be adept at providing anesthesia for cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Dental Anesthesia: CRNAs in dental practices work closely with dentists and oral surgeons, providing anesthesia for dental procedures. Certification in dental anesthesia may be required.
Neurosurgical Anesthesia: Neurosurgical CRNAs work in neurosurgery departments, providing anesthesia for brain and spine surgeries. This specialization often requires additional training in Neuroanesthesia.
Specialization not only allows you to focus on a specific area of interest but also positions you as an expert, potentially leading to higher earnings and more job satisfaction.
Leadership Roles for Nurse Anesthetists
CRNAs can also pursue leadership roles within their facilities or professional organizations.
Facility Leadership: Opportunities are available to serve on boards, committees, and other leadership roles within hospitals and healthcare systems. Experienced CRNAs can become chief nurse anesthetists, managing anesthesiology teams, coordinating care, and handling administrative duties.
Professional Associations: At the state and national levels, CRNAs can take on leadership roles within associations like the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). Many CRNAs leverage their expertise to run for local, state, and national office, influencing healthcare policy and practice.
Ready to Elevate Your CRNA Career?
CRNAs are in high demand, offering a wide range of career paths that cater to different interests and lifestyles. Whether you choose to work in a hospital, outpatient center, or specialized clinic, the opportunities are vast and varied. Specializing in a particular area can further enhance your career, while leadership roles allow you to influence the profession at a higher level. Educating future CRNAs adds another layer of fulfillment to this already rewarding career.
If you're ready to explore the many possibilities within the CRNA profession, consider working with AMN Healthcare for exciting locum tenens positions. Your next career adventure awaits!
