KANSAS ASSOCIATION OF NURSE ANESTHETISTS PATIENT AND PUBLIC INFORMATION

When you or a loved one needs anesthesia, you deserve to feel informed, confident, and safe. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are trusted anesthesia experts who care for Kansans every day. The Kansas Association of Nurse Anesthetists (KANA) is here to help you understand your options, know who will be caring for you, and feel prepared for any procedure—from surgery to childbirth to outpatient treatments.

Who are CRNAs 

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are highly trained advanced practice nurses who specialize in providing anesthesia care. With more than 150 years of history in the United States, CRNAs have long been essential in delivering safe, reliable anesthesia in every setting where it is needed.

In Kansas, CRNAs care for patients in:

• Hospital surgical suites and labor & delivery units

• Critical access and rural hospitals, where CRNAs often serve as the sole anesthesia providers

• Ambulatory surgery centers

• Dental, podiatry, ophthalmology, and pain management offices

• Emergency and trauma settings

CRNAs are known for their expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to patient safety.

Your Anesthesia

In Kansas, anesthesia may be provided by a CRNA, an anesthesiologist, or a team that includes both. In more than 80% of Kansas hospitals—especially in rural areas—CRNAs are the only anesthesia providers available, ensuring that patients can receive lifesaving and routine care close to home.

If a CRNA is your anesthesia provider, they will:

• Stay with you for the entire duration of your procedure

• Continuously monitor your vital signs

• Adjust your anesthesia for comfort and safety

• Work closely with your surgeon, obstetrician, dentist, or other procedural provider

• Answer your questions and help you understand what to expect

Your CRNA’s primary role is to keep you safe, comfortable, and supported from start to finish.

KANA is committed to ensuring every Kansas patient feels informed and empowered. If you have questions about your upcoming procedure or who will be providing your anesthesia, we encourage you to contact your facility directly and ask to speak with your anesthesia provider.

For additional information or general questions, you are always welcome to reach us at info@kana.org