National CRNA Week | Jan. 21-27, 2024
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are America’s original anesthesia experts. This highly respected profession traces its origins to the 1860s, when nurses eased the suffering of wounded soldiers in the Civil War.
That same culture of safe, responsible care continues today --- from operating rooms and surgical centers, serving patients and families faithfully --- to the front lines of combat, serving side by side with America’s military personnel.
Nurse anesthetists are among the nation’s most trusted professions, delivering specialized, cost-effective care to all patients --- from newborns to seniors --- for every type of procedure in all types of facilities.
Today, there are nearly 66,000 CRNAs and nurse anesthesia students nationwide, with more than 3,700 in the commonwealth alone. That’s why we celebrate CRNA Week in Pennsylvania each year. Because when seconds count … in war and in peace … CRNAs are there.
CRNAs: The Heart of Anesthesia
National CRNA Week in Pa
JanUARY 18 - 24, 2026
In countless operating rooms, delivery suites, and trauma settings across the state and nation, you’ll find certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) practicing the science and heart of anesthesia.
These highly trained professionals guide patients through their most vulnerable moments with unmatched skill, compassion, and reassurance. Whether it’s a child undergoing their first operation, a wounded soldier on the front lines, or a senior facing a crucial procedure, CRNAs are the hands-on anesthesia experts there to keep their patients safe, comfortable, and cared for.
Consider this:
PANA represents approximately 4,000 certified registered nurse anesthetists and student registered nurse anesthetists in the commonwealth.
Numerous medical by nationally recognized health-care policy and research organizations prove CRNAs provide high-quality care, even for rare and difficult procedures.
CRNAs are battle-tested providers. We are the primary anesthesia providers in austere combat theaters.
When you combine all the years of training, the average nurse anesthetist completes 9,000 clinical hours.
Pennsylvania is among the top draws for CRNA students across the United States, with 15 highly rated nurse anesthetist programs.
CRNAs provide more than 80% of anesthesia care in rural areas. Our presence in the community, skill, and precision ensure patients undergo timely surgery safely, access pain management, and avoid needless delay or travel.
You're members of one of America’s most trusted and respected health-care professions. This week, we thank you … and we celebrate you!
Use this form to nominate individuals for spotlights, publications, research highlights, awards, honors, or other noteworthy accomplishments that advance the nurse anesthesia profession and positively impact
the community.
Jodie B. Szlachta, PhD, CRNA
