Working as a CRNA in Washington

Washington is an excellent state for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists due to its strong support for advanced practice nursing and robust demand for anesthesia services. CRNAs in Washington can practice independently without physician supervision, giving them full authority to make clinical decisions regarding anesthesia care. The state opted out of the federal Medicare supervision requirement in 2003, making it one of the nation’s earliest and strongest supporters of CRNA autonomy.

Washington offers a wide range of practice settings, from large systems such as UW Medicine, Swedish Medical Center, Virginia Mason Medical Center, and MultiCare Health System to small community hospitals and facilities in rural regions. CRNAs often serve as primary anesthesia providers in underserved communities, especially in eastern and central Washington, where access to anesthesia services would otherwise be limited.

The professional environment is complemented by competitive salaries, strong continuing education opportunities, and well-established collaborative healthcare networks. Whether practicing in the Seattle–Tacoma metropolitan area or more rural hospital systems, CRNAs in Washington benefit from a high degree of autonomy and professional respect. With its favorable practice laws and growing demand for anesthesia care, Washington remains an outstanding choice for CRNAs seeking independence and strong career opportunities.

Education and Certification

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

Licensure

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

Scope of Practice

• Autonomy: Washington allows CRNAs to practice independently, meaning they can provide anesthesia services without physician supervision.
• Prescriptive Authority: CRNAs in Washington have prescriptive authority for certain medications as part of their practice.

Collaboration

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

State Regulations

It is essential for CRNAs to 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 Washington State Department of Health and the Washington State Association of Nurse Anesthetists .