Working as a CRNA in Mississippi

Mississippi continues to have strong demand for CRNAs, particularly in hospitals and surgery centers that serve rural and medically underserved regions. CRNAs can work across major systems such as University of Mississippi Medical Center, Baptist Memorial Health Care, Forrest General Hospital, North Mississippi Medical Center, and Memorial Hospital at Gulfport. These facilities rely on CRNAs for operating room anesthesia, trauma services, obstetrics, and outpatient surgical care.

Mississippi requires CRNAs to practice under a collaborative or consultative agreement with a physician. Independent practice authority is not currently recognized, and scope of practice is determined by state law, the Mississippi Board of Nursing, and individual facility credentialing policies. Most hospitals utilize collaborative or Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) models to define CRNA clinical responsibilities.

With a wide range of practice environments—including trauma hospitals, community medical centers, ambulatory surgery facilities, and rural hospitals—Mississippi offers CRNAs stable employment options and opportunities to provide essential anesthesia services throughout the state.

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

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

Scope of Practice

• Autonomy: Mississippi does not allow CRNAs to practice independently. CRNAs must be supervised by a licensed physician.
• Prescriptive Authority: CRNAs may have the authority to prescribe medications related to anesthesia and patient care.

Collaboration

Collaborative Care Model and Anesthesia Care (ACT) Model.

State Regulations

CRNAs should stay updated on any changes in state laws and regulations affecting their practice. For current information, check out the Mississippi Association of Nurse Anesthetists (MANA) and Mississippi Board of Nursing as well as other relevant professional organizations.