Nurse anesthetists have been providing anesthesia care to patients in the United States for more than 150 years. They are the primary providers of anesthesia care in rural America, enabling healthcare facilities in these medically underserved areas to offer obstetrical, surgical, pain management and trauma stabilization services.

The Certified course is one of four advanced practice registered nurse roles recognized in the U.S., They practice with a high degree of autonomy and professional respect. They carry a heavy load of responsibility and are compensated accordingly.