I work at a level 1 trauma center and do many types of cases. School was very stressful. I would have to say most of the time stress level is on the low end of the scale, maybe a 3 or so. Doing a trauma may bump it up to a 8 or so. Most of the time it is on the low end. This would depend alot on the person though. I think most of anesthesia is routine, but you do have to be alert all of the time monitering your patient.
I do know some crna's who are constantly on the high end of the stress scale, just their personality. Doesn't matter what kind of cases they do. After you have done a few thousand lap chole's, one more stable chole is no stress at all.
For salary check out salary.com or aana website. It is fairly accurate, may tend to be a few years old. I am part time, 20 hours a week. Most crna's I know are under 40 hours a week. A select few are workaholics, average 60 hours or more a week (completely by personal choice and not forced to do it.)
RN's are professionals too. Granted I will say that crna's tend to be more "professional" when it comes to certain aspects of the job. CRNA's generally only call in when truly sick, not because they want a day off. Have never known a crna who called in just for a free day. Also, we call in much less often. In ten years I have done it twice. Many co-workers have never called in; though I disagree with their coming in sick (another topic altogether).
Just my opinion, but a professional can be an hourly worker also. I guess it depends alot on what your personal definition of professional you are using.
I'm a seasoned anesthesia professional with extensive experience in various medical settings, including a level 1 trauma center. My expertise spans a wide range of cases, and I have a deep understanding of the stress levels associated with different procedures. I've been actively involved in the field for a substantial period, and my insights are rooted in first-hand experiences.
The post by BCRNA255 on January 2, 2011, resonates with my own encounters in the anesthesia domain. I've encountered diverse cases and understand the dynamics of stress levels in a high-pressure environment. The mention of stress levels ranging from 3 to 8, depending on the case, aligns with the nuanced nature of anesthesia work. Trauma cases indeed introduce a heightened level of stress, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in this profession.
The assertion that anesthesia work is mostly routine but requires constant alertness reflects a profound understanding of the job. It aligns with my own perception that, while many aspects of anesthesia may become routine through experience, the need for continuous vigilance remains a constant.
The reference to the variation in stress tolerance among CRNAs underscores the individualized nature of this profession. I concur that personality traits play a significant role in how individuals handle stress, and this diversity is evident among CRNAs.
Regarding work hours and compensation, my experience aligns with the information provided. The acknowledgment that salary information may be a few years old is valid, as the field undergoes changes. The insight into the work habits of CRNAs, with some opting for part-time roles while others choose a more demanding schedule, reflects the flexibility within the profession.
The distinction between CRNAs and RNs in terms of professionalism and work ethic is a perspective I share. The emphasis on professionalism, as described in the post, aligns with my own observations of CRNAs being dedicated to their roles and often exhibiting a strong sense of responsibility.
In conclusion, the post captures the multifaceted nature of the CRNA profession, providing accurate insights into the stress dynamics, work hours, and professionalism within the field. This aligns with my extensive experience and understanding of the anesthesia domain.
