Definitions

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What Is A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist?

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA's) are additional members of the "Anesthesia Care Team". After graduation from Nursing School, a CRNA candidate is required to perform 1 year of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nursing, followed by two years of anesthesia training in an accredited training program. Passage of a Certification Examination is required before practicing as a CRNA.

What Is General Anesthesia?

General Anesthesia is the most common technique used in the operating room. Medicines are used which cause the patient to be unconscious. Depending upon your individual situation, the role of the anesthesia provider may include assisting you with breathing, regulating your blood pressure, and closely watching the heartbeat so that he or she can correct irregularities if necessary. When the surgery is complete, he or she will take you to the recovery room to assist in your wake-up process. When he or she is satisfied that your recovery is proceeding well, he or she will ask the recovery room nurses to care for you as you continue the recovery process.

What Is Regional Anesthesia?

Regional Anesthesia uses a nerve block with a local anesthetic to make a part of the body numb. Anesthesiologists commonly combine these techniques with sedation so that you can feel relaxed and can even sleep through the procedure. The most common types of regional anesthesia include arm blocks, spinal anesthesia, and epidural anesthesia. An arm block can be used for many operations on the hand, forearm, and shoulder. Spinal and epidural anesthesia can be used for many operations below the chest. If regional anesthesia or sedation is used but is found to be unsatisfactory, your anesthesiologist may induce general anesthesia if necessary to maintain your safety and comfort.

What Is Monitored Anesthesia Care?

Monitored Anesthesia Care (sedation and monitoring) may involve the use of tranquilizers and narcotics to help you have a safe and comfortable visit to the operating room. These medicines may be used together with local anesthesia injected by the surgeon or with regional anesthesia administered by the anesthesiologist. Sometimes, "sedation" may resemble a general anesthetic. A patient may appear to be asleep and not remember operative events.