Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to define current and future role perceptions of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists using a Delphi method. This study was designed to assess the perceptions of a panel of anesthesia provider experts to (1) describe a current baseline of the present roles of the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, (2) delineate the possible future roles of the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist by the year 2015, and (3) compare the present perceived roles of the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists with those forecasted in a Delphi study by Lester in 1988. Methodology. The Delphi method based on Edward Cornish's (1983) Delphi technique was used to reach consensus among an anonymous group of experts using a series of iterative surveys. The study produced descriptive data with two groups: the anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). The statistics were tabulated using means, standard deviations, and t-tests. Consensus was established by a percentage of sixty or more and a mean of four or more. Findings. Analysis of collected data revealed consensus on the need for an increase in levels of performance, computer literacy training, development of distance and problem-based learning, and working in anesthesia teams. The comparison of Lester's (1988) future roles are very similar to the present perceived roles of CRNAs, thus validating the 1988 study. Conclusions. The findings show anesthesiologists want to work with CRNAs but want them to be dependent, not independent. CRNAs also want to work in teams with anesthesiologists but want independence and the right to do all the roles (obstetrical, regional anesthesia, or supervisory) they are capable of doing. Recommendations. (1) The professions included in this study should work toward a common goal (care of the patient), (2) to be more efficient and better serve the patient, roles should be defined for each profession, recognizing there will be overlap in areas, and (3) further study should be done to determine if the future role perceptions remain valid and to identify those perceptions for the future of nurse anesthesia practice, which are as yet unidentified or not defined.