Working as a CRNA in Louisiana

Louisiana has a high demand for CRNAs across both large hospital networks and rural medical centers. Major health systems such as Ochsner Health, LSU Health, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Tulane Medical Center, and Willis-Knighton Health System employ CRNAs in trauma hospitals, academic medical centers, ambulatory surgery centers, and critical access facilities. CRNAs support a broad range of services including cardiac anesthesia, pain management, obstetrics, and outpatient surgical care.

Louisiana does not grant fully independent practice to CRNAs. State regulations require physician supervision or a collaborative relationship as defined by the Louisiana Board of Nursing and facility credentialing policies. Most organizations use the Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) model or structured collaborative frameworks that outline CRNA clinical responsibilities and practice expectations.

With growing demand for anesthesia services, competitive compensation, and a wide mix of urban and rural practice settings, Louisiana provides strong opportunities for CRNAs seeking stable employment and diverse clinical experience in a variety of hospital and surgical environments.

Education and Certification

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

Licensure

• Louisiana License: CRNAs must hold a valid Louisiana Registered Nurse (RN) license and apply for certification as a Nurse Anesthetist through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.
• Renewal: The NBCRNA Recertification Process for All Practicing CRNAs .

Scope of Practice

• Autonomy: CRNAs in Louisiana have the authority to practice independently, including performing anesthesia care without the supervision of a physician.
• Prescriptive Authority: CRNAs can prescribe medications related to anesthesia and other aspects of patient care under the APRN scope.

Collaboration

CRNA-only model, Collaborative Care Model, and Anesthesia Care (ACT) Model.

State Regulations

CRNAs should stay informed about changes in state laws and regulations that may impact their practice. For the most current information, consult the Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthetists and Louisiana State Board of Nursing as well as other relevant professional organizations.