CRNA meaning in Medical ?

A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is a specialized type of advanced practice nurse who administers anesthesia in the United States. CRNAs account for approximately half of the anesthesia providers in the United States and are the main providers of anesthesia in rural America. Historically, nurse anesthetists have been providing anesthesia care to patients since the American Civil War and the CRNA credential came into existence in 1956. CRNA schools issue a master's or doctorate degree to nurses who have completed a program in anesthesia, which ranges from 2-3 years in length.

Scope of practice and practitioner oversight requirements vary between healthcare facility and state, with 20 states and Guam granting complete autonomy as of 2021. In states that have opted out of supervision, the Joint Commission and CMS recognize CRNAs as licensed independent practitioners. In states requiring supervision, CRNAs have liability separate from supervising practitioners and are able to administer anesthesia independently of anesthesiologists.