Although an anesthesiologist has an M.D and has had prestigious training, a nurse anesthetist can perform most of the procedures an anesthesiologist can without the supervision of the physician. The only significant difference between an anesthesiologist and a nurse anesthetist is the amount of schooling he or she must receive. CRNAs and anesthesiologists are trained to provide anesthesia the exact same way (“Anesthesia”). In fact, most hospitals would rather hire a nurse anesthetist rather than a high-cost anesthesiologist (“Certified Registered”). More than 49,000 CRNAs today provide high-quality patient care that is essential to the nation’s health system. “CRNAs vigilantly monitor the patient’s vital signs, regulate the anesthetic as necessary,
