CRNA, Nurse Anesthetist​/CRNA

The CRNA is responsible for the delivery of anesthesia care to patients undergoing ophthalmologic surgical procedures at Columbia Eye Surgery Center. This includes performing pre-anesthesia evaluations, administering and monitoring anesthesia (MAC, local, and sedation), and ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative period.

The CRNA upholds the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) Code of Ethics, ensuring the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and clinical excellence in anesthesia practice.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The CRNA functions in accordance with the AANA Scope and Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice and is accountable for all aspects of anesthesia management before, during, and after surgery, including but not limited to:

• Pre-Anesthetic Evaluation and Preparation
  • Performs comprehensive pre-anesthesia assessments and obtains informed consent.
  • Develops individualized anesthesia care plans based on patient history, physical status, surgical procedure, and current standards of care.
  • Collaborates with surgeons and perioperative staff to ensure safe and efficient patient preparation and surgical flow.
• Anesthesia Administration and Management
  • Administers anesthesia using techniques appropriate for ophthalmic procedures, including MAC, peribulbar block, and sedation.
  • Selects, orders, and administers anesthesia medications and fluids consistent with patient needs and institutional protocols.
  • Maintains vigilant and continuous monitoring of vital signs, patient response, and depth of anesthesia; adjusts anesthetic care as needed.
  • Manages the patient’s airway and oxygenation consistent with AANA standards for safe anesthesia practice.
  • Maintains current knowledge of pharmacology, equipment, and techniques relevant to ophthalmic anesthesia.
• Intraoperative and Post-Anesthetic Care
  • Ensures patient comfort and physiological stability throughout the procedure.
  • Provides safe emergence from anesthesia and ensures appropriate postoperative handoff to recovery staff.
  • Evaluates postoperative status, documents care, and communicates findings to the surgical and recovery teams.
• Professional Standards and Compliance
  • Practices in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws, CMS Conditions for Coverage, DHEC regulations, and Board of Pharmacy standards.
  • Adheres to all institutional policies regarding infection control, patient safety, and quality assurance.
  • Maintains complete and accurate documentation of anesthesia services within the electronic medical record (EMR).
  • Participates in ongoing quality improvement and patient safety initiatives.
  • Maintains readiness for emergency response and demonstrates proficiency in life-support measures.
  • Upholds the AANA Code of Ethics, emphasizing accountability, integrity, and respect for patient autonomy and confidentiality.

• Graduate of an accredited nurse anesthesia program (Master’s or Doctoral degree) and obtain a Certificate of Nursing Anesthesia.
• Current licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the State of South Carolina.
• Current NBCRNA certification as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
• Current BLS and ACLS certifications are required.
• Minimum of 5 years of anesthesia experience, preferably in ophthalmology or an ambulatory surgery setting.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a patient-centered approach.
• Ability to function independently and make sound clinical judgements.
• Exceptional organizational, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Proficient in EMR documentation and standard office software.
• Commitment to patient safety, accuracy, and adherence to professional standards of anesthesia care.
• Demonst…