Which professional is listed as being capable of ordering/administering regional, spinal, and general anesthesia?

• A. Certified midwife
• B. CNA
• C. CNS
• D. CRNA

Answer: (D)

Regional, spinal, and general anesthesia require specialized anesthesia training and certification. Among nursing professionals, the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist has the scope of practice to order and administer these forms of anesthesia. CRNAs are trained to assess patients, plan the anesthesia approach, administer the anesthesia, monitor the patient throughout the procedure, manage airway and vital signs, and respond to any complications, all within approved protocols and supervision requirements.

The other roles do not have this authority in most settings. A certified nurse-midwife specializes in obstetric and gynecologic care; a certified nursing assistant provides basic bedside care but does not order medications or administer anesthesia; a clinical nurse specialist offers expert nursing care in a specialty area but does not routinely administer anesthesia unless they hold the CRNA certification.