While this profession might not be well heard of, it is experiencing heightened demand in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical and paramedical institutions all across the US and the world. In essence, a perianesthesia nurse is someone who provides specialized care for patients during surgery, under anesthesia, and coming back to consciousness. Often times, this position requires vigilance because the moments after a surgery, or during an anesthetic induced unconsciousness, are very crucial. This requires a nurse with very specific qualifications and a specialized job description.
A Short Guide to Perianesthesia Nursing
A perianesthesia nurse carries more responsibilities than that of a normal RN. They must be present at the most crucial moments of surgical procedure, and they are entrusted with the task of monitoring vitals and ensuring that the patient stays comfortable. This particular job is exploding with opportunity as the job description is becoming more specific; any time a position is specialized like this, not only does the salary hike, but the position carries extra responsibility.
Perianesthesia Nursing Certification
The perianesthesia nurse position is unique in that it does not yet require state certification. While the government does not yet regulate this position, it’s best to seek out a formal certification, if you want to find a well paying job.
Perianesthesia certification will convey to the employer that you not only want to commit to this field, but that you diligently took steps to ensure that you are properly trained to do the job. Having formal training in perianesthesia nursing will keep you current on the newest procedures and technological advances in the field. It is highly recommended that you get certified if you decide take this route.
In order to be certified, you have to have a good amount of perianesthesia nursing time behind you with a minimum of 1,800 hours of experience. The body that regulates nurse certification is the ABPANC (or the American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing Certification). The nurse must also have a bachelor’s or associates degree, so be sure to account for that before you take steps to acquire your perianesthesia nurse certification.
Perianesthesia nurse salary
For nurses, a perianesthesia nurse position is a relative gold mine. For certified nurses who are also qualified to work in surgery, the salary can soar upwards to $38 per hour. If the perianesthesia nurse does become certified, that nurse can then enjoy the title of either a CPAN (Certified Perianesthesia Nurse) or a CAPA (Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse). Either position is extremely coveted, but it is a very lucrative idea to keep becoming more trained, educated, and certified. The higher you climb, the more you get paid.
The Search for Opportunities
Joining with the ASPAN (The American Society of Perianesthesia Nurses) is going to be an excellent decision, as these folks can hook you up with opportunities for advancing your career and can provide invaluable resources. This is a great way to make sure that you’re networked. If a well-paying medical institution is in search of a perianesthesia nurse, they know exactly where to find you.
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