Every day, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists play a critical role in delivering exceptional care across Minnesota’s health care system. Whether it’s in a rural hospital or a bustling surgical center, or serving our military and veterans, CRNAs are often the unsung heroes ensuring patients receive safe, high-quality anesthesia care when they need it most.
Minnesota is fortunate to have over 2,000 CRNAs, advanced practice registered nurses with specialized training in anesthesia, serving patients in every corner of the state. CRNAs administer more than 50 million anesthetics to patients nationwide each year, a testament to their expertise, reliability and dedication to patient safety.
For many Minnesotans, particularly in rural areas, CRNAs are the primary — if not the only — providers of anesthesia care. In Greater Minnesota, CRNAs make essential surgical, trauma stabilization, obstetrical and pain management services possible. Without their presence, residents in rural and underserved communities would face significant challenges in accessing these vital medical services. CRNAs ensure patients don’t need to travel long distances or delay care because a qualified provider isn’t available locally.
This role is even more pronounced during emergencies. Whether in small rural hospitals or large urban centers, CRNAs bring a high level of clinical skill, autonomy and sense of calm to ensure patient safety during critical situations.
CRNAs have a proud history of advancing the practice of anesthesia. Minnesota’s own Alice Magaw, known as the “Mother of Anesthesia,” began this legacy over a century ago while working at the Mayo Clinic. Today, that same spirit of leadership and innovation continues to define CRNAs’ work.
CRNAs provide anesthesia care in collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, podiatrists, dentists and other health care professionals across diverse settings, including outpatient clinics, military facilities and Veterans Administration hospitals. Whether delivering anesthesia in an operating room, managing advanced patient monitoring or supporting trauma teams during emergencies, CRNAs are recognized for their ability to provide safe, high-quality and cost-effective care.
At a time when health care costs are rising, CRNAs represent a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. Numerous studies have shown there is no difference in the safety or outcomes of anesthesia care provided by CRNAs and physician anesthesiologists. CRNAs can independently deliver anesthesia care, allowing hospitals and clinics — especially in rural areas — to optimize resources and serve more patients.
CRNAs also play an important role in addressing workforce shortages, particularly in Minnesota’s smaller communities. Through education and training programs, Minnesota continues to graduate highly skilled CRNAs ready to meet the state’s health care needs.
The theme for this year’s CRNA Week — “Exceptional Care, Innovative Leaders” — perfectly describes the contributions of CRNAs across Minnesota. CRNAs are not only clinical experts but also trusted leaders who advocate for patient safety, advance the practice of anesthesia and help shape the future of health care.
In addition to providing care, CRNAs are educators, mentors and advocates. They serve on hospital committees, engage in research and help guide policy decisions to improve health care outcomes for all Minnesotans. Their leadership ensures that patients continue to have access to the highest level of care, no matter where they live.
On behalf of the Minnesota Association of Nurse Anesthetists, I want to thank every CRNA in our state for their unwavering commitment to their patients and communities. You are the reason Minnesotans can undergo surgeries, deliver babies and receive life-saving trauma care with confidence.
CRNA Week will be recognized Jan. 19-25. To the public, I encourage you to recognize and appreciate the incredible contributions CRNAs make to our health care system. The next time you or a loved one receives anesthesia care, know that a CRNA is likely by your side, ensuring your safety and comfort every step of the way.
Every breath. Every beat. Every second. CRNAs are there.
Kevin Cardinal is president of the Minnesota Association of Nurse Anesthetists.
