CRNA
The Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is a qualified anesthesia provider involved in the administration of anesthesia and related services as delineated by the clinical and non-clinical responsibilities described herein. CRNAs practice according to their expertise, Texas State statutes and regulations, and WNJ institutional policy. CRNAs administer anesthesia and anesthesia-related care in four general categories: (1) preanesthetic preparation and evaluation; (2) anesthesia induction, maintenance and emergence; (3) postanesthesia care; and (4) perianesthetic and clinical support functions. CRNAs perform in collaboration with qualified and legally authorized professional health care providers. CRNAs are prepared to recognize those situations where care requirements are beyond their individual competencies and to seek consultation or referral when such situations arise. The CRNA is responsible to the Medical Director of Anesthesia, the Director of Anesthesia Services, and the Attending Physician. Function in a “team approach” to anesthesia with the normal chain of command: the surgeon to the anesthesiologist, and the anesthesiologist to the anesthetists, exceptions may exist to accommodate surgeon requests emergencies and CRNA only services. If the CRNA feels that an anesthetic will put the patient’s life in jeopardy, then this condition must be discussed with the Attending Anesthesiologist, operating Surgeon, or the Medical Director of Anesthesia Services. The CRNA may decline to administer an anesthetic to a patient in this category. The Medical Director of Anesthesia and the Director of Human Resources will review a decision to decline and will make appropriate recommendation to the Chief Executive Officer.
