Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Nurse Anesthetists are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who specialize in providing anesthesia and related care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures. They also provide pain management and emergency services, such as airway management.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 9.0% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 2,700
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 25% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $237K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $155K per year | $207K per year | $237K per year | $294K per year | $340K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $186K above the national average. | ||||
Nurse Anesthetists work in a variety of medical settings including hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, physicians' offices, and military health facilities. They often work in operating rooms, labor and delivery units, and pain management clinics.
Nurse Anesthetists play a crucial role in the success of a wide range of medical procedures by ensuring patient comfort and safety. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, dentists, podiatrists, and other healthcare professionals. Their responsibilities include not only administering anesthesia but also monitoring the patient's vital signs and adjusting anesthesia as necessary during procedures.
This profession requires a high level of expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions. Nurse Anesthetists need to have a deep understanding of both the physical and psychological aspects of anesthesia, as well as the ability to respond to emergency situations effectively.
Nurse Anesthetists must also possess excellent communication skills, as they are responsible for educating patients about anesthesia and addressing any concerns they may have. They need to maintain a calm demeanor and provide reassurance, particularly in high-stress situations.
Becoming a Nurse Anesthetist typically requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which is a 4-year program, followed by passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This is followed by 1-3 years of experience in acute care nursing and a 2-3 year nurse anesthesia educational program, leading to a Master's or Doctorate degree in Nurse Anesthesia.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
