W‑2 full-time

Full details

Working under the supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist and following established policies and procedures, the nurse anesthetist induces and maintains anesthesia for patients undergoing surgical, diagnostic, or therapeutic procedures, and manages their airway or provides cardiopulmonary resuscitation when needed. The role serves patients of every age group.

Responsibilities begin with a preoperative assessment, which includes examining the patient, reviewing medical history and the chart, and seeking advice from the surgeon or anesthesiologist when high-risk factors appear. The nurse anesthetist places intravenous catheters and starts medicated fluids before surgery, and performs endotracheal intubation in the operating room to deliver anesthetic gases to the lungs.

During procedures, the nurse anesthetist gives anesthesia through intravenous agents, inhaled gases, or both, adjusting them as the patient's needs change. The nurse watches for significant blood loss or pressure on nerves or vital organs, tracks pulse, blood pressure, and breathing continuously, adjusts intravenous flow to blood pressure changes, and monitors transfusions as a physician directs. Vital signs are checked until the patient is stable enough to move to post-anesthesia recovery. The role also includes routine technical upkeep of anesthesia equipment and supplies.

Qualifications include graduation from an approved nursing school and completion of an anesthesia program of at least 18 months accredited by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, plus passing that association's qualifying examination and state recognition as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. A current valid New York State nursing license is required, along with recertification through the Council on Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists. A high level of analytical ability and excellent written and verbal communication skills are expected. New hires complete a three- to six-month orientation to learn institutional and departmental policies and anesthesia techniques.