CRNAs are trained to provide anesthesia for all surgeries and patients. In training, CRNAs complete cardiothoracic, neuro, general surgery, and OB rotations. They are also trained to deal with emergencies and complications.

I have worked for a cardiovascular group where the CRNAs provided anesthesia for all types of cardiothoracic surgery including heart bypass, heart valves, aneurysm repairs, heart & lung transplants, and lung surgeries. The CRNAs provided the highest level of care to their patients and took pride in doing so.

We are in a country that is trying to reduce healthcare costs. Allowing CRNAs to use their full scope of practice will increase access and improve care to all patients.

Please refer to some of the top hospitals in the nation- who use CRNAs to provide anesthesia in their most complicated surgeries. What makes an anesthesia provider competent is: knowledge, continuing education, and a true devotion to their patient. Who better than a nurse?

Dear Mr Wolf, don't hold your breath.

I agree with CA Supreme Court. I find the comments by Curtis Cole to be uninformed, in that many CRNA's practice in areas of trauma, labor & delivery, and even cardiothoracic surgery. The studies examining safety of anesthesia had sample sizes more than sufficient to make the statement that there is no difference in quality or safety between CRNA and MD anesthesia. Mr. Do has also made statements without any basis, emphasizing his bias as an attorney for the MD group. I find it particularly interesting that Mr. Do, who is neither an expert in CRNA education nor continuing education, makes statements about CRNA's not being prepared for medical emergencies. Coincidentally, as a practicing CRNA and faculty member, I personally and regularly conduct a significant amount of training in medical emergency avoidance and management for CRNA, MD anesthesiologists, and residents. In an evidence-based model of practice, there is just no good evidence to suggest differences in quality and/or safety

The comments of Long Do are not accurate. Have him give specific examples of the "strict limits" nurse anesthetists can perform without physician supervision including the states and legal references.