CRNA - Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
- Cost: $1100
- Renews: Every 4 years
COURSE FORMAT
About
The Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is a specialized professional certification for registered nurses who have completed advanced education and training in anesthesia. Administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA), this certification validates the CRNA's expertise in administering anesthesia and providing care before, during, and after surgical or therapeutic procedures. CRNAs play a vital role in ensuring the safety and comfort of patients undergoing anesthesia and are recognized for their advanced clinical skills and knowledge in the field.
Completion Time: The length of your examination will be based on your performance on the questions provided. The estimated duration is around three hours.
Course Format
Exam Format
The National Certification Examination (NCE) for CRNAs includes 100 questions covering anesthesia principles, practices, and patient management across various medical conditions and surgical procedures.
The exam assesses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in nurse anesthesia.
Questions may be multiple choice, calculations, drag and drop, hotspot, and graphics/videos.
A passing score on the NCE is determined by NBCRNA, and passing candidates will receive electronic notification.
Registration for the NCE involves completing an application, meeting eligibility criteria like graduation from a nurse anesthesia educational program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), and paying the examination fee.
The exam is conducted at designated testing centers, following specific protocols.
Certification
Eligibility requirements include a valid RN license, completion of a COA-accredited nurse anesthesia program, and a record of good moral character.
The application process involves submitting transcripts, proof of program completion, and examination fees.
If unsuccessful on the NCE, candidates can reapply following NBCRNA’s guidelines.
Renewal
CRNA certification must be renewed every 4 years through the Continued Professional Certification (CPC) program.
Renewal involves fulfilling clinical practice requirements, completing continuing education units, and passing a recertification exam every 8 years.
Continuing Education
Continuing education requirements include 60 Class A and 40 Class B credits, along with Core Modules in anesthesia practice, during each 4-year CPC cycle.
Detailed records of these activities must be maintained and submitted for the recertification process.
For the most current and detailed information regarding Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist certification, including application guidelines, exam schedules, study materials, and renewal processes, it is advised to refer directly to the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) website.
Other Resources
NBCRNA provides a range of study materials, including a detailed content outline and sample questions.
Additional resources may include review courses, textbooks, and simulation exercises in nurse anesthesia.
Related Certifications
A current, unrestricted RN license and a master’s or doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia from a COA-accredited program are prerequisites.
CRNAs may pursue additional certifications in pain management, critical care, or other advanced practice areas.
Other Certifications:
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Frequently asked questions
What organization offers the National Certification Examination (NCE) certification for CRNAs?
The National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurses Anesthetists (NBCRNA) offers the National Certification Examination (NCE) for CRNAs.
Can I take the National Certification Examination (NCE) exam online?
No you can't take the National Certification Examination (NCE) exam online.
What settings do Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) work in?
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) provide anesthetics to patients in every practice setting and every type of surgery or procedure. They're the sole anesthesia providers in nearly all rural hospitals. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists usually work in hospital operating rooms (ORs), emergency rooms (ERs), intensive care units (ICUs), cardiac care units (CCUs) or outpatient surgical clinics.
Who would benefit from becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)?
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRNs) with graduate-level education who enjoy a high degree of autonomy and professional respect would benefit from becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
What's the difference between a Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)?
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) designation refers to multiple types of advanced practice nursing roles that registered nurses (RNs) can move up to with the right education and experience. APRNs hold a master’s degree (or higher) in nursing and have extensive training in a specialized area. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are one type of APRN with graduate-level education who provide anesthetics to patients in every practice setting and every type of surgery or procedure. CRNAs usually work in hospital operating rooms (ORs), emergency rooms (ERs), intensive care units (ICUs), cardiac care units (CCUs) or outpatient surgical clinics.