A Nurse Anesthetist Policy Analysis for Strategic Planning: State Nurse Anesthetist Organizations

Abstract

Problem: The current policy issue regards the need for more clarity regarding the title Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) to stakeholders. In 2021, The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists officially recognized nurse anesthesiologist as a title descriptor. The title descriptor was part of a long rebranding effort to advocate for CRNAs. The Mid-Atlantic Association of Nurse Anesthetists (MAANA) has yet to recognize the new title descriptor. Purpose: This policy analysis aims to provide an impact assessment for the MAANA to make a knowledgeable recommendation concerning the adoption of the title descriptor nurse anesthesiologist as a synonymous title to nurse anesthetist which will provide clarity to the role of the CRNA. Methods: Information regarding the policy impact assessment was obtained from various state nurse anesthesia associations that have adopted nurse anesthesiologist as a title descriptor. Interviews utilizing a Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threat (SWOT) analysis tool were conducted with the associations. Results: The strengths of the new title descriptor include a better patient understanding of the CRNA's practice role. The common weakness was that having two titles could confuse patients about the difference between the titles. Patient clarity regarding the role of a CRNA was the foremost opportunity acquired by the title descriptor change. The common barrier was the physician's pushback. One state had a supreme court case filed by the Board of Medicine after adopting the title. Conclusions: Findings obtained by four of the six target associations suggest that the title descriptor Nurse Anesthesiologist could benefit the profession of nurse anesthesia because it increases patient clarity regarding the CRNA's role and scope of practice. However, it does not provide additional professional opportunities for the CRNA. Limitations noted after concluding the interviews included the inability to interview two of the six nurse anesthesia associations.