How much does a nurse anesthetist make?

In the United States, pay can differ by location and workplace: BLS data show different patterns for physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient centers, and across states. Certification and the exact role also matter; working more or fewer hours changes total earnings.

Administer anesthesia, monitor patient’s vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. May assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, or dentists. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.

What's a typical day like?

Before surgery, they check a patient's health and plan anesthesia; in the operating room, they give it and watch breathing and vital signs. Afterward, they monitor the patient waking up and help manage pain.

Earn a bachelor's nursing degree, pass the RN exam, and work at least a year in critical care. Then complete an accredited doctoral anesthesia program, pass the national CRNA exam, and meet state licensing rules.

Graduate degree or long training (preparation level 5 of 5)

Good for people who like helping and teaching and figuring things out.

Nurses first gave anesthesia to wounded soldiers on U.S. battlefields during the Civil War.