Celebrating National CRNA Week: House of Representatives Acknowledges Nurse Anesthetists' Impact

Commemorating National CRNA Week

From January 19 to 25, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives pays tribute to the invaluable contributions of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) through a bipartisan resolution led by representatives from various states. The resolution highlights the critical roles that CRNAs have played in delivering quality healthcare not only to the general public but also to the armed forces for over 150 years.

This year, the theme for National CRNA Week is "CRNAs: Exceptional Care. Innovative Leaders," which underscores the extensive training and education that CRNAs undergo to ensure patient safety and care. These professionals have earned a formidable reputation for providing effective, efficient, and compassionate treatment in a variety of settings, including surgical suites, labor and delivery rooms, and pain management facilities.

AANA President Jan Setnor emphasized the significant number of anesthetics that CRNAs administer regularly—over 58 million annually. These procedures occur not just in traditional healthcare setups, but also in critical access hospitals, Veteran Affairs hospitals, and even military operations. Setnor expressed gratitude for the resolution from the House, stating it recognizes the tireless efforts of all CRNAs dedicated to safeguarding patient safety and health.

Moreover, the resolution shines a light on the indispensable role of CRNAs in rural healthcare. In many medically underserved areas, CRNAs often serve as the sole anesthesia providers, delivering essential services such as obstetrical care and trauma stabilization. Without them, many patients in these areas would struggle to access necessary medical procedures and pain management services.

Setnor also reaffirmed the commitment of CRNAs to uphold their dedication to patients, no matter their geographical location. Whether operating in urban hospitals or remote healthcare facilities, CRNAs prioritize patient well-being and trust—a core value in one of America's most esteemed professions.

As National CRNA Week unfolds, healthcare professionals and the community are encouraged to reflect on the pivotal role of CRNAs and express appreciation for their contributions to healthcare and patient safety. As the acknowledgment continues to grow, it serves as a reminder of the crucial relationships CRNAs build with their patients and the impact they have on the healthcare system as a whole.

The resolution not only honors the history of the CRNA profession but also recognizes the potential they hold for the future of healthcare, particularly in tackling ongoing public health challenges. In a world increasingly dependent on dedicated healthcare providers, CRNAs stand at the forefront of patient care, ready to take on new challenges and deliver exceptional care to those in need.