Top 11 CRNA Certifications

Certifications are a key way for CRNAs to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the job market. Certified RNs are highly sought after by hospitals, medical centers, and other healthcare facilities for their specialized expertise in administering anesthesia to patients. Certification demonstrates that an individual has met established standards of practice and is knowledgeable about current best practices. In addition, certification can provide CRNAs with access to professional development opportunities and networking with other certified professionals. Moreover, certifications can help increase job security as employers are more likely to hire individuals who have demonstrated the appropriate level of competency through certification.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for CRNAs and explain how they can enhance a CRNA's career.

What are CRNA Certifications?

CRNA certification is an advanced nursing credential that recognizes the specialized skills and knowledge of a certified registered nurse anesthetist. The CRNA credential is awarded by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) after an individual has met all requirements, including passing a national certification examination.

CRNAs are highly trained professionals who provide anesthesia services to patients before, during, and after surgical procedures or other medical treatments. They work with surgeons, dentists, podiatrists, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and comfort before, during, and after procedures. To become a CRNA requires specialized education in anesthesia-related topics such as pharmacology, physiology, anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical management principles for pain management services, and more.

Having a CRNA certification can be beneficial for nurses seeking to advance their career in the field of anesthesia. It demonstrates mastery of the specialty area of nurse anesthesia practice and can open up career opportunities such as working in private practice settings or teaching at universities or health care institutions. Additionally, many employers require CRNA certification when hiring new staff or promoting existing personnel within their organizations. Having a CRNA credential also allows nurses to receive higher salaries than those without this advanced credentialing designation.

Pro Tip: When considering CRNA certification, it is important to research the requirements and understand the process. Additionally, it is important to make sure you have a solid foundation in nursing and anesthesiology as these are essential skills for CRNAs. Finally, make sure to take advantage of any resources and support networks available to help you through the process.

Related: What does a CRNA do?

Top 11 CRNA Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to CRNAs today.

1. American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) credential is the highest level of certification for nurse anesthetists. It is a nationally-recognized credential that demonstrates a nurse anesthetist's advanced knowledge and experience in providing anesthesia care. To become a CRNA, one must have at least a bachelor's degree in nursing as well as at least one year of critical care experience.

In addition to completing the required educational and clinical requirements, individuals must also pass the National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). The exam consists of two parts: the Core Modules Exam and the Clinical Simulation Exam. The Core Modules Exam covers topics such as pharmacology, physiology, pathophysiology, anatomy, equipment and technology, patient safety and professional practice. The Clinical Simulation Exam tests clinical judgment skills through simulated scenarios.

It typically takes about two years to complete all of the requirements necessary to become a CRNA. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances such as prior experience or education level.

The cost to become a CRNA varies depending on factors such as tuition costs for educational programs and fees associated with taking the certification exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars to become certified.

2. National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA)

The National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) is a non-profit organization that provides certification and recertification programs for nurse anesthetists. The NBCRNA was established in 1978 to promote excellence in the practice of nurse anesthesia by providing a standardized process for certifying and recertifying nurse anesthetists.

The certification process consists of two parts: the initial certification exam and the recertification exam. The initial certification exam is a computer-based test that covers topics such as pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, equipment operation, patient assessment, and clinical judgment. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible to take the initial certification exam, applicants must have graduated from an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program within three years of taking the exam. Applicants must also hold a valid RN license in the state where they plan to practice.

The cost of taking the initial certification exam is $725 USD for members of NBCRNA or $875 USD for non-members. The cost of taking the recertification exam is $400 USD for members or $500 USD for non-members.

Once certified, nurse anesthetists are required to take continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain their certification status. The NBCRNA offers several online courses that can be taken at any time during the year.

3. American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-NP)

The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-NP) is a certification that recognizes the advanced practice nursing skills of nurse anesthetists. This certification is awarded to those who have completed an accredited program in nurse anesthesia and have passed the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).

In order to become certified, individuals must first complete an accredited nurse anesthesia program. The length of these programs vary but typically take two to three years to complete. After completing the program, individuals must then pass the NBCRNA’s national certification exam. Once they have passed this exam, they are eligible for AANP CRNA-NP certification.

The cost of obtaining AANP CRNA-NP certification varies depending on individual circumstances and can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. This cost includes tuition fees for the accredited nurse anesthesia program, registration fees for the NBCRNA’s national certification exam, and any other associated costs such as travel expenses or study materials.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their credential through continuing education activities in order to remain certified. They must also renew their credential every five years in order to remain current with changes in practice standards and regulations.

4. National Commission for the Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-AA)

The National Commission for the Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-AA) is a certification program offered by the NCCAA that certifies an individual as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. This certification is designed to ensure that individuals have achieved a high level of competency and expertise in the field of anesthesia.

To become certified, individuals must first complete an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program and then pass the NCCAA’s national certification examination. The exam consists of both written and practical components, which are designed to assess knowledge and skills related to patient care, pharmacology, equipment management, airway management, and other areas related to anesthesia practice. Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification through continuing education courses and recertification exams every two years.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on the individual's educational program and examination fees. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

In addition to completing an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program and passing the NCCAA’s national certification examination, individuals must also meet certain requirements in order to be eligible for certification. These include having a valid nursing license in the state where they will be practicing; having at least one year of experience working in an acute care setting; and completing at least 20 hours of continuing education each year.

Overall, obtaining NCCAA Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-AA) certification typically takes between 1-2 years depending on the individual's educational background and experience level.

5. American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ANCC)

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ANCC) is a certification program for nurse anesthetists. It is the only nationally recognized certification for nurse anesthetists in the United States. The certification recognizes nurses who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, experience, and skills in providing anesthesia care to patients.

To become certified as a CRNA-ANCC, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a current unrestricted license as a registered nurse in the United States or its territories.
• Have completed an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program.
• Have at least one year of full-time clinical practice experience as a CRNA within the past three years prior to applying for certification.
• Pass the ANCC Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ANCC) examination.

It typically takes two to three years to complete all of these requirements and obtain your CRNA-ANCC certification. Once you have met all of the eligibility criteria, you can apply to take the ANCC Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ANCC) examination through their website or by mail. The cost of taking the exam is $450 USD, which includes both the application fee and exam fee.

6. American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ASA)

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ASA) is a certification that recognizes the advanced practice and expertise of nurse anesthetists in the field of anesthesia. It is a voluntary certification that is awarded to registered nurses with advanced training in anesthesia care. In order to obtain this certification, the nurse must have graduated from an accredited nursing program and have completed a minimum of one year of clinical experience in anesthesia care.

To become ASA Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ASA), the applicant must pass a written exam administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). The exam consists of two parts: Part I covers general knowledge related to professional practice, while Part II covers specific knowledge related to anesthesia care. Once both parts are successfully passed, the applicant will be awarded the CRNA-ASA credential.

The process typically takes between 12 and 18 months to complete, depending on individual circumstances. During this time, applicants must complete their academic requirements as well as their clinical experience requirements. Additionally, they must submit all necessary documentation to NBCRNA for review prior to taking the exam.

The cost for becoming ASA Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA-ASA) varies depending on individual circumstances but can range from $3,000-$5,000 or more. This includes costs associated with tuition fees for academic courses; registration fees for exams; and any additional expenses such as travel costs or study materials.

7. International Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (IBCRNA)

The International Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (IBCRNA) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification and recertification for nurse anesthetists. The IBCRNA was established in 1991 to promote excellence in the practice of nurse anesthesia by providing a voluntary certification program that assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities of nurse anesthetists.

To become certified by the IBCRNA, applicants must have graduated from an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program and hold a current license as a registered professional nurse. Applicants must also pass both written and oral examinations administered by the IBCRNA. The written examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as pharmacology, physiology, anatomy, pathophysiology, patient assessment, equipment selection and management, regional anesthesia techniques, general anesthesia techniques, airway management techniques, postoperative care management principles and practices. The oral examination consists of 10 questions covering topics related to clinical practice.

The certification process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. To get started on the process you will need to submit your application along with all required documents such as transcripts from your nursing school or college and proof of licensure as a registered professional nurse. Once your application has been approved you will be scheduled for both the written and oral examinations.

The cost for taking the IBCRNA examinations varies depending on where you live but typically ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 USD. This fee includes both the written and oral exams as well as any additional fees associated with scheduling or rescheduling exams.

8. American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN)-Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) credential is a certification that recognizes the advanced knowledge and expertise of registered nurses who specialize in anesthesia. CRNAs are responsible for administering anesthesia to patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. They also provide pain management services and monitor patient vital signs throughout the procedure.

In order to become an AACN-Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, you must first complete an accredited nurse anesthesia program at either the master’s or doctoral level. After completing your program, you must then pass the National Certification Examination for Nurse Anesthetists administered by the National Board of Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). Once you have passed this exam, you can apply for certification with AACN.

The cost of becoming an AACN-Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist varies depending on your educational program and other factors such as test fees and application fees. Generally speaking, it may take up to two years to complete a nurse anesthesia program at either the master's or doctoral level. After completing your education and passing the NBCRNA exam, it typically takes four to six weeks for AACN to process your application and issue your certification.

9. National Board for Certification in Occupational Health Nursing, Inc. -Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Health Nursing, Inc. (NBCOHN) is a non-profit organization that provides certification to Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). CRNAs are advanced practice nurses who specialize in providing anesthesia care to patients before, during, and after surgery or other medical procedures. The NBCOHN's Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) certification is the only nationally recognized credential for nurse anesthetists.

To become certified as a CRNA, you must first meet the educational and clinical requirements set by the NBCOHN. This includes graduating from an accredited nurse anesthesia program with a master’s degree or higher, completing at least one year of clinical experience in an approved setting, and passing the NBCOHN’s CRNA examination. After meeting these requirements, you can apply for certification through the NBCOHN website.

The cost of becoming certified as a CRNA varies depending on your individual circumstances. The application fee is $375 and the exam fee is $600; however, these fees may be reduced if you are enrolled in an accredited nurse anesthesia program or if you are currently employed by a healthcare facility that offers tuition reimbursement programs. Additionally, some states offer financial assistance to help cover the cost of certification exams.

Overall, it typically takes approximately two years to complete all of the necessary steps to become certified as a CRNA.

10. National Council for Prescription Drug Programs -Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

The National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is a certification program that recognizes the professional achievement of registered nurse anesthetists. It is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to practice as a CRNA in the United States.

To obtain this certification, individuals must have successfully completed an accredited nurse anesthesia program and passed the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). The NCPDP CRNA certification is valid for two years from the date of issuance.

To apply for the NCPDP CRNA certification, individuals must submit an application form along with proof of successful completion of an accredited nurse anesthesia program, proof of current licensure as a registered nurse, and payment of the applicable fee. The fee is currently set at $100 per year.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive a certificate indicating their successful completion of the NCPDP CRNA program. This certificate can be used to demonstrate professional competence in providing safe and effective anesthesia care in accordance with established standards of practice.

11. National Organization for Competency Assurance -Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

The National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA) Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) credential is a voluntary certification program that recognizes nurse anesthetists who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skill and experience in the specialty practice of anesthesia. The CRNA certification is designed to ensure that certified nurse anesthetists are knowledgeable and competent in the delivery of safe anesthesia care.

To become a NOCA-Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements, including: current licensure as a registered nurse in the United States; completion of an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program; and successful completion of the NOCA Certification Examination. Once these requirements have been met, individuals can apply for certification through NOCA.

The process typically takes around 4-6 weeks from start to finish. The application fee for NOCA Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist is $400 USD. After submitting your application, you will be required to take the NOCA Certification Examination which consists of two parts: a written examination and a clinical simulation examination. Both examinations must be passed in order to receive your CRNA certification.

Do You Really Need a CRNA Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career aspirations. If you are looking to work in the field of anesthetics, then a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) certificate is essential. It is a professional certification that demonstrates your knowledge, skills, and competency in providing safe anesthesia care to patients. The certification is also a requirement for many states and organizations that employ nurse anesthetists.

A CRNA certificate indicates that you have completed additional training beyond the standard nursing program and have achieved a high level of expertise in administering anesthesia safely. In addition to demonstrating your competence, the certificate can provide you with a competitive edge when applying for jobs or advancing your career. It also allows employers to easily verify your qualifications when considering you for employment.

If you are considering becoming a nurse anesthetist but do not yet have a CRNA certificate, it is important to understand what it takes to become certified. You must complete an accredited nurse anesthesia program and pass the National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Certification & Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). After completing all requirements, including passing the exam, you will receive your CRNA certificate from NBCRNA.

In conclusion, while having a CRNA certificate is not always necessary depending on one's career goals, it certainly has its advantages if you are interested in working as a nurse anesthetist or advancing in your current role. Achieving this certification requires dedication and hard work but can be well worth it in terms of career advancement opportunities and recognition from employers.

Related: CRNA Resume Examples

FAQs About CRNA Certifications

1. What is a CRNA certification?

Answer: A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is an advanced practice registered nurse who has completed an accredited educational program and passed a national certification exam. CRNAs administer anesthesia to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient centers, and ambulatory surgery centers.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a CRNA?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified as a CRNA varies depending on the individual's prior experience and education. Typically, it takes between two and four years of additional education beyond a bachelor's degree in nursing to become eligible for certification.

3. What type of continuing education is required for CRNAs?

Answer: Continuing education is required for all certified registered nurse anesthetists in order to maintain their certification status. The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) requires that all CRNAs complete at least 40 hours of continuing education every two years.

4. What type of salary can I expect with a CRNA certification?

Answer: The median annual salary for certified registered nurse anesthetists was $174,790 in 2020 according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Salary can vary based on location and experience level but generally speaking, CRNAs are among the highest-paid nurses in the healthcare field.

5. Are there any specialty certifications available for CRNAs?

Answer: Yes, there are several specialty certifications available for certified registered nurse anesthetists such as Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC).