A Policy Impact Analysis on Nurse Anesthetist Title Change

Abstract

Problem: In 2021, the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) formally became the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiologists. It is of interest to explore if this Mid-Atlantic nurse anesthesia state association and state itself, should pursue legislation to change the title to “nurse anesthesiology.” Purpose: This policy exploration surveys opinions of current Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs) and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) on the title change to provide an impact analysis to the state organization in Spring 2023. Methods: Over a 15 week period a demographic and qualitative survey were disseminated to in-state CRNA schools and over 800 CRNAs statewide. This survey was distributed through a secure and private data collection service, REDCap, and allowed for emails with links to the population of interest. Additional data was collected through focused discussion with CRNAs in the clinical setting. Results: 231 surveys were completed out of 872 distributed. Demographic data indicated 198 of those currently practice in the state of interest. The highest percentage of survey responses by CRNAs was in the 30 to 39 year old group and those practicing over 21 years. Sixty-three of respondents were SRNAs. The favorability of the state association pursuing a name change on a scale of 0-10 is 5.29. Conclusions: Despite an average sense of benefit of 5.29, actual responses indicate extremes of 0 (no benefit at all) and 10 (of great benefit). Conflicting reports exist as some respondents believe the “anesthesiologist” title would provide clarity to the public on the job role, while others report it would cause confusion. Overall, there is a common sense of not wanting to put the financial resources into legally changing the name as an organization and state.