Joyce Daley, Contributor

A nurse anaesthetist at work in the operating theatre.

Registered nurse anaesthetists are advanced registered nurse specialists trained in the art and science of anaesthesia. They administer anaesthesia and related anaesthesia care to patients, constantly monitoring every important function of the patient's body, regulating the anaesthesia as necessary. They analyse the patient's response, make decisions and respond quickly and appropriately in an emergency.

How does a nurse become a nurse anaesthetist?

A nurse must attend an accredited nurse anaesthesia education programme to receive an extensive education in anaesthesia. Upon graduation, the nurse must pass a certification exam to become a nurse anaesthetist.

What does the nurse anaesthesia education programme include?

The programme includes 32 months of graduate course work including classroom, clinical and a six-month internship period.

The classroom curriculum emphasises anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, chemistry, physics, pharmacology, social psychology, principles of anaesthesia and research methodology. The major clinical component provides experience with a variety of anaesthesia techniques and procedures for all types of surgery and for patients of all ages.

What is the role of the individual nurse anaesthetist?

Takes care of the patient's anaesthesia needs before, during and after surgery.

Performs physical assessment.

Participates in pre-operation teaching.

Prepares for anaesthetic management

Administers anaesthesia to keep patient pain free.

Oversees recovery from anaesthesia.

Follows the patient's post-operation recovery to the recovery room and beyond.

Provides services in conjunction with other health-care professionals such as surgeons, anaesthesiologists, dentists, etc.