Georgia

Certified nurse anesthetists (CRNA) earn one of the highest salaries in the nursing profession, with an annual base pay between $141,000 and $160,000. Administering anesthesia to patients is the main role of the nurse anesthetist.

Certified nurse anesthetists are mainly employed by hospitals, and they are the main providers of anesthesia services in rural facilities. Certified nurse anesthetists (CRNA) are an integral part of a client's healthcare team. They collaborate with doctors and other health care professionals in many types of health care settings, including surgical suites in hospitals and ambulatory centers, labor and delivery units, plastic surgeons offices, as well as military and veteran healthcare establishments.

Certified nurse anesthetists are advanced practice registered nurses who may practice independently and be directly reimbursed under the Medicare program. To become a certified nurse anesthetist one needs to meet specific education and experience requirements as well as pass a national certification exam. While a nurse anesthetist's job involves a high degree of professional responsibility, it is rewarded with respect and top earning wages.