Job Outlook for Nurse Anesthetists

Americans are more active than ever before and they are living longer, healthier lives, due in part to taking charge of their health and being more involved in their own medical care. As such, the need for all types of healthcare professionals, including certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), is expected to grow at a faster-than-average rate.

CRNA opportunities extend far beyond a traditional operating room setting. There is, and will be for the foreseeable future, an increased need for nurse anesthetists in hospital labor and delivery units, and as the primary providers of anesthesia in military and government medical facilities and in rural healthcare clinics.

RNs, in general, are expected to create the second largest number of new jobs among all occupations. In addition, the impending shortage of anesthesiologists will only increase the need for CRNAs.

CRNA Salary Information

Certified registered nurse anesthetists are some of the highest paid advanced practice nursing professionals. Salaries vary greatly by region, type of facility, number of years in practice and sub-specialty. The average CRNA salary for 2006 was more than $160,000. Nurse anesthetists can expect to begin their careers earning in the low $110,000 salary range and can move toward $200,000 or more as they gain additional experience. The rate of pay increases for CRNAs practicing in specific areas.

Temporary Pay Rates for Nurse Anesthetists

Since there is a shortage of CRNAs, qualified individuals can command excellent pay for temporary work (locum tenens). Although pay rates vary by assignment location and setting, on average nurse anesthetists make close to $100 an hour. In certain areas, CRNAs can make $95-$105 per hour. For a 40-hour work week, that translates to approximately $3,800-$4,200.

If you are a certified registered nurse anesthetist looking for work, search our CRNA jobs to find outstanding employment opportunities with excellent pay and benefits.

Sources: United States Department of Labor, Salary.com