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Anesthesia is the use of special drugs to temporarily block sensation in part of the body or to keep a patient unconscious during surgery. Anesthetics are administered by either an anesthesiologist (a physician who specializes in this area) or a nurse anesthetist. The nurse anesthetist is a key member of the operating team. He or she combines professional nursing skills with the science of anesthesia and works under the direction of a doctor or dentist to administer and monitor anesthesia. Environment Although anesthetics are usually administered in a hospital operating room, the nurse anesthetist may work in an emergency room, dental offices, outpatient settings, or any location where anesthetics are used. Prep General college preparation is recommended. Coursework should include three math classes including algebra I, algebra II, and geometry (or a higher level math course for which algebra II is a prerequisite), three science courses including one biological science, one physical science, and one lab course, four English units, and two social studies units. If available, students should take two years of a foreign language. It is recommended that a student be enrolled in a health services endorsement area if available. This is defined as a broad course of study that allows students to explore career opportunities and apply academic knowledge and skills in health services. Academic A nurse anesthetist must be a registered nurse with either a BSN or a bachelor’s degree in a biophysical science, and must have completed a minimum 24-month training course in anesthesiology from an approved school of nurse anesthesia. Training is often provided through a graduate school and leads to a master’s degree. Coursework covers anesthesia practice, pharmacology, respiratory care, anatomy, and physiology. Graduate trainees must pass an examination by the Council on Certification for Nurse Anesthetists to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Earning Potential $129,996.00 - $149,262.00
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