<p>If you’re a nurse who wants to become a specialist, there are many career options and fields to choose from. If you haven’t already, you should consider a career in nurse anesthesia, as it offers many <strong>benefits</strong>, from earning potential to independent contract work. Learn more about nurse anesthesia and nurse anesthetists in our guide below. </p><h2>Good Earning Potential</h2><p>As with any career, whether it’s in healthcare or business sales, earning potential is a significant factor in how attractive a career it is. Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) have one of the highest earning potentials in nursing, making it one of the most lucrative nurse specialty careers. </p><p>The average CRNA earns well over six figures, and the top salary in the field for those in the right position and with some experience is over $250,000. While the extra schooling that becoming a CRNA requires may be difficult, it can certainly pay off with a strong salary later. </p><h2>In-Demand Field </h2><p>One of the reasons that CRNAs are paid so well, and one of the principal benefits of a career in nurse anesthesia, is that it’s an in-demand healthcare field. Due to the aging population of the US and the increase in chronic conditions, more surgeries and anesthesia are necessary. </p><p>But while the demand for anesthesia and CRNAs has grown, the number of practicing nurse anesthetists hasn’t increased much, leading to a strong demand for any available CRNAs. Therefore, a CRNA will likely have many lucrative options when they start work—which isn’t something every nurse specialty can offer. </p><h2>Job Autonomy</h2><p>One aspect of the CRNA career that many current and former CRNAs say they enjoy is the autonomy of the job. While CRNAs typically work under an anesthesiologist, they don’t have to, and many end up setting up their own independent anesthesia practice. </p><p>If you think you might want to be your own boss and open your own practice, a career in nurse anesthesia may be right for you. And even CRNAs working under anesthesiologists have many independent responsibilities, like preanesthetic preparation, postanesthetic care, and more. </p><h2>Work as an Independent Contractor </h2><p>Another way that CRNAs can enjoy independence and freedom is by working as independent contractors. There are many <a href="https://baxterpro.com/pros-and-cons-of-becoming-an-independent-crna-contractor/">pros and cons of becoming an independent CRNA contractor</a>, but for those wanting the ability to frequently pick up and go somewhere new, the position is ideal. </p><p>Working as an independent contractor also gives CRNAs more leverage to negotiate for a better salary, and many say it offers a better work-life balance. If you want a career that allows you to travel to new places and work in new areas frequently, an independent CRNA contractor role may be right for you. </p>
