Nurse Anesthetist vs. Anesthesiologist: Key Differences in 2026

The primary distinctions between nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologists are:

• Education. To become an anesthesiologist, individuals typically undergo 12 years of education, which includes undergraduate studies, medical school, and residency, whereas it takes about 6 to 8 years to become a nurse anesthetist.

• Job Duties. An anesthesiologist holds greater authority in directing anesthesia administration and making treatment decisions, while nurse anesthetists focus more on patient care and specific tasks.

• Salary. Anesthesiologists generally have a significantly higher average salary compared to nurse anesthetists.

If you’re considering a career in healthcare and have an interest in anesthesia, two key professions to explore are nurse anesthetist and anesthesiologist. While their titles may sound similar, the roles differ considerably, especially in terms of education, responsibilities, and career paths.

What Is a Nurse Anesthetist?

A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) administers anesthesia to patients, collaborating with physicians, dentists, and surgeons. Their role may involve taking full responsibility for anesthesia or providing assistance as needed.

Certification and licensing for CRNAs are state-specific, with ongoing discussions about nationalizing nursing licensure, which has yet to be realized. The responsibilities of a CRNA can vary by state but typically include:

• Providing pain management

• Assisting with anesthesia administration

• Administering anesthesia

• Monitoring patient vitals during anesthesia

• Overseeing patient recovery

• Performing epidurals and spinal blocks

• Engaging with patients to discuss anesthesia and address their questions

This high-demand, well-compensated nursing role carries significant responsibility as CRNAs often serve as the primary providers of anesthesia in many healthcare settings.

Where Can a Nurse Anesthetist Work?

Nurse anesthetists primarily work in hospitals, but they have a range of employment options beyond high-pressure environments. Here are some settings where CRNAs can be found:

• Hospitals

• Surgical centers

• Doctor’s offices

• A dentist’s office

• Plastic surgery centers

• Military medical facilities

• Ambulatory surgical centers

• Outpatient care centers

CRNAs can work in any location where anesthesia or pain management is required. Some environments will be fast-paced and high-stress, while others may offer a more relaxed atmosphere. This flexibility allows you to choose a setting that aligns with your personal preferences.

What Certifications/Requirements Are Required to Become a Nurse Anesthetist?

Becoming a nurse anesthetist involves a rigorous educational path. Here are the standard steps to becoming a CRNA:

• Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This foundational step provides a comprehensive understanding of nursing, including specialized courses in anesthesiology.

• Pass the NCLEX-RN. The National Council Licensure Examination for nurses is essential for entry-level nursing practice.

• Gain Acute Care Experience. Working in an emergency room or ICU prepares future CRNAs for high-stakes situations and enhances hands-on skills.

• Earn a Master of Science in Nursing. Some students may opt for an accelerated path, entering an MSN program directly with a bachelor’s in a different field, although this is challenging.

• Earn a Doctorate in Nursing. CRNAs must hold a doctoral degree, with the requirement becoming effective by 2025.

• National Certification Examination (NCE). This exam, administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists, is crucial for obtaining CRNA certification and must be renewed every four years.

What Is an Anesthesiologist?

An anesthesiologist, often referred to as a physician anesthesiologist, is a medical doctor specializing in anesthesia, pain management, and critical care. They possess a medical degree and can provide comprehensive patient care beyond the scope of anesthesia.

Becoming an anesthesiologist typically requires 12 to 14 years of education, including 12,000 to 16,000 hours of clinical training. Once their education and training are completed, anesthesiologists can expect to perform the following duties:

• Administering general anesthesia

• Performing IV sedation and monitoring anesthesia

• Applying regional anesthesia for large areas

• Using local anesthesia for smaller regions during “awake” procedures

• Preparing patients for surgery by discussing anesthesia options

• Monitoring patients throughout surgery and adjusting anesthesia as needed

• Supervising anesthesia administration by other staff

• Overseeing patient recovery post-anesthesia

• Developing pain management strategies for patients

It’s essential to recognize that anesthesiologists do much more than simply induce sleep during surgery; their expertise spans the entire perioperative process, including preoperative assessments and postoperative care. Furthermore, pain management is increasingly recognized as a vital aspect of health care practices.

What Certifications/Requirements Are Required to Become an Anesthesiologist?

Becoming an anesthesiologist requires extensive education and training, including:

• Earn a Bachelor’s Degree. While the specific field of study is flexible, many aspiring doctors benefit from coursework in science, math, humanities, and social sciences.

• Pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This examination is a prerequisite for admission to medical school.

• Earn a Medical Degree. Medical school typically takes four years, focusing on advanced medical education.

• Complete a Residency. Anesthesiologists must complete a four-year residency in anesthesiology, which includes demanding hours and additional education.

• Apply for and obtain a medical license. Each state has its own licensing board that reviews applications and grants the right to practice medicine.

• Pass the national board exam. While not mandatory, many anesthesiologists choose to take the American Board of Anesthesiology exam to achieve board certification.

The path to becoming an anesthesiologist is long and challenging, but the responsibilities are significant, as patients’ lives depend on their expertise. Consequently, this profession typically offers a high salary commensurate with their extensive training.

Differences Between a Nurse Anesthetist and an Anesthesiologist

Although the job responsibilities of nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologists often overlap, there are distinct differences between the two roles:

• Education. Anesthesiologists complete the extensive education required for physicians, while nurse anesthetists are expected to have doctoral degrees in nursing, which provides a different scope of training.

• Time. Anesthesiologists typically spend at least 12 years in education and training, while nurse anesthetists can enter the workforce sooner, usually after 6 to 8 years of education and experience.

• Cost of Education. The financial investment in education varies; becoming an anesthesiologist generally incurs higher costs due to the length and depth of training involved.

• Salary. While both professions are well-compensated, anesthesiologists often earn more due to their extensive training and broader scope of practice.

• Licensing. Anesthesiologists must obtain a medical license, which is an additional requirement that nurse anesthetists do not face in the same manner.

In summary, while the duties of nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologists are similar, anesthesiologists are more likely to work in larger facilities with supervisory roles, while nurse anesthetists may operate independently in smaller settings or under the supervision of an anesthesiologist in larger practices.

Author

Kristin Kizer

Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.