Lead Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist CRNA

POSITION SUMMARY

A qualified Lead CRNA is responsible for the management of nurse anesthesia services in collaboration with the Medical Director of Surgical Service (Chief Anesthesiologist) and the Anesthesia Practice Manager and nursing administration.  The Lead CRNA in collaboration with the Medical Director of Surgical Service (Chief Anesthesiologist)   and the Anesthesia Practice Manager develops and interprets organizational policies for budgets and personnel; assumes responsibility for safe and proper operation and quality control of equipment, techniques, and procedures; analyzes and evaluates activities to assure established quality patient care. 

The Lead CRNA provides anesthetic care for all types of patients under the medically directing physician and under the standards of the Department of Anesthesiology and in accordance with Medical Center policies and procedures.  The Lead CRNA administers anesthesia to patients rendering them insensitive to pain during surgery, monitors the patient’s physical reaction to sedatives, analgesics, and anesthetic agents and informs the anesthesiologist of any adverse condition that potentially threatens the safety or care of the patient. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education:

1. Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing. 
2. Master’s degree from an accredited nurse anesthesia education program.

Experience:

1. One year’s experience working in an acute care environment.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

1. Knowledgeable regarding controlled substance policies in accordance with Federal and State laws. 
2. Communicates appropriately using good interpersonal skills.
3. Serves, manages, and supports internal and external customers. 
4. Participates as a team member and is accountable for own work responsibilities. 

License/Certification/Registration:

1. Currently licensed as a Registered Nurse in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 
2. Board Certified, Recertified or eligible by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists.
3. Meets the American Heart Association’s standards for Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) and renews BLS every two years.
4. Meets the American Heart Association’s standards for Healthcare Provider Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and renews ACLS every two years.
5. Meets the American Heart Association’s standards for Healthcare Provider Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and renews PALS every two years.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Receives medical direction from a physician in accordance with Pennsylvania state law. Works in a collective fashion with the Medical Director of Surgical Service (Chief Anesthesiologist) and Anesthesia Practice Manager towards department goals and may receive periodic direction from either. 

SUPERVISION GIVEN

None

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Performs a variety of administrative functions: 
   1. Represents Mount Nittany Medical Center (MNMC) administration in the leadership and management role of the CRNAs.
   2. Supports the mission, vision and values of MNMC and will help to implement strategic initiatives as requested.
   3. Oversees other MNMC CRNAs as well as participate in organizational and leadership roles that are aligned with Mount Nittany Health System’s organization and strategies and initiative.;
   4. Coordinates and mediates as necessary relationships between members of the anesthesia department and other members of the healthcare team.
   5. Serves as a bridge between anesthesiologists and CRNA staff to ensure adequate effective communications occur during transition of staff and ongoing development of the department.
   6. Maintains a smooth efficient working environment between all members of the health care team, patients and families.
   7. Collaborates with the Medical Director, Surgical Service (Chief Anesthesiologist)  and Anesthesia Practice Manager to develop and implement systems for daily anesthesia scheduling, monthly staffing schedules and monitoring of staff requests and vacations.
   8. Develops strategies to improve staffing patterns that are safe and cost efficient.
   9. Works with physician recruitment and medical staff office employees to interview and recruit new permanent CRNAs and assure that adequate locum CRNA staff is available.
   10. Assists in developing programs for recruitment, retention and development and continuing education of all anesthesia staff.
   11. Acts as a mentor, coach, and educator to the CRNA staff.
   12. Assists Medical Director, Surgical Service (Chief Anesthesiologist)  and Anesthesia Practice Manag