Working as a CRNA in Arkansas

CRNAs play a critical role in Arkansas’ healthcare system, particularly in rural and medically underserved regions where anesthesia services are often dependent on advanced practice providers. Although Arkansas is not an opt-out state, CRNAs may provide anesthesia services under a collaborative practice arrangement with a licensed physician, and the specific responsibilities are determined by facility credentialing and collaborative agreements.

CRNAs in Arkansas work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, pain management facilities, and independent anesthesia groups. Major systems such as Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health, Mercy Health, and UAMS Medical Center employ CRNAs extensively across both metropolitan and rural settings.

Compensation in Arkansas is competitive relative to cost of living, and CRNAs commonly participate in collaborative or Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) models. Providers in rural regions often report a wide clinical scope and greater procedural autonomy compared to larger metropolitan systems. Combined with the state’s lower cost of living and outdoor lifestyle, Arkansas remains an appealing location for CRNAs seeking a balance of professional opportunity and quality of life.

Education and Certification

• Educational Requirement: CRNAs must hold a doctoral degree from an accredited nurse anesthesia program.
• Certification: After completing their education, CRNAs must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).

Licensure

• Arkansas License: CRNAs must obtain a registered nurse (RN) license in Arkansas. They also need to apply for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license.
• Renewal: The NBCRNA Recertification Process for All Practicing CRNAs .

Scope of Practice

• Collaboration: CRNAs in Arkansas must work under a collaborative practice agreement with a physician.
• Prescriptive Authority: CRNAs in Arkansas have limited prescriptive authority, which may involve collaboration with physicians.

Collaboration

Collaborative Care Model and Anesthesia Care (ACT) Model.

State Regulations

CRNAs should stay informed about any changes in state laws and regulations that may affect their practice.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check out the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and the Arkansas Association of Nurse Anesthetists .