CRNAs provide safe pain relief and anesthesia care
January 24-30 was National CRNA Week, and the three full-time CRNAs (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists) at Crossing Rivers Health, Georgia Govier, Doris Barnes and Michael Rider, celebrated with their colleagues by displaying posters in the medical center increasing awareness of their profession. The theme of CRNA week this year was “Making a Difference-One Patient at a Time.” CRNAs are independent practitioners that deliver safe, high quality, cost effective anesthesia care in today's ever changing health care environment.
Georgia Govier is the director of the Anesthesia Department at Crossing Rivers Health. She explains their work, “In the administration of anesthesia, CRNAs enable patients to receive anesthesia services for obstetrical care, surgical care and pain management services. They provide 24 hour call to administer every type of anesthesia including emergency services and trauma stabilization in collaboration with surgeons and other physicians. It is a career with rewards far beyond compensation. CRNAs are rewarded by hearing the first cries of a newborn following delivery, providing pain relief for patients with chronic pain and being part of the team that saves a life in the ER. It is an honor and privilege to provide hands-on, watchful anesthesia care and remain at a patient’s side during surgical procedures. ”
CRNAs were the first advanced practice nurses in America, licensed in all states, but relatively unknown outside the operating room. They may be considered the health care providers patients don’t recognize and don't remember, but as airway and pain specialists, they are watching over patients, making sure they are breathing and feeling no pain during procedures.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are licensed professional registered nurses who have obtained, through additional education and successful completion of a national examination, certification as anesthesia nursing specialists. CRNAs practice independently, are board certified, complete continuing education requirements and re-certify every two years.
Crossing Rivers Health provides over 60 services and programs beneficial to the region. Learn more about Crossing Rivers Health and Crossing Rivers Health Clinics in Prairie du Chien and Fennimore by visiting crossingrivers.org.