A comparison of nurse anesthesia practice types.

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Nursing Practice
• Healthcare Administration

Background:

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) practice in diverse settings.
• Understanding practice variations is crucial for professional development and healthcare policy.
• Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) and non-ACT models represent distinct practice environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and delineate the key differences between CRNAs practicing within ACT models versus non-ACT models.
• To analyze practice variables including demographics, scope of practice, and employment arrangements.

Main Methods:

• A survey methodology was employed, distributing a 13-item questionnaire to 1,000 practicing CRNAs.
• A response rate of 44.4% was achieved, yielding data for analysis.
• Statistical analysis (alpha = 0.05) was used to compare practice types.

Main Results:

• ACT CRNAs were younger, had less experience, and were more frequently female, holding master's degrees and practicing in urban settings.
• ACT CRNAs performed more laryngeal mask airway and arterial line placements and provided anesthesia for complex cases (pediatric, trauma, etc.).
• Non-ACT CRNAs performed more epidurals, central lines, and were more involved in pain management and critical care consultations, reporting higher incomes but longer work hours.

Conclusions:

• Significant demographic, practice scope, and employment differences exist between ACT and non-ACT CRNA practice types.
• As CRNA employment models evolve, awareness of these practice trends is essential for individual CRNAs.
• These findings highlight the need for CRNAs to understand diverse practice alternatives and their implications.