The Future of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Practice in South Korea: Fading Into the Sunset of Breaking of a New Dawn?

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-1-2017

Department

Nursing

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe the practice of nurse anesthesia in the Republic of Korea and to identify trends, policy, and other factors that affect Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) as a profession. The authors conducted a descriptive study using a cross-sectional online survey of members of the Korean Association of Nurse Anesthetists. The data were collected between July 1 and September 15, 2015. A total of 267 surveys were analyzed. Descrip-tive and nonparametric analysis of data was used to determine differences in practice and job satisfaction related to level of preparation. There were statistically significant differences in work satisfaction between CRNAs and anesthesia registered nurses (ARNs) and statistically significant differences in components of practice between CRNA and ARN respondents. The practices of CRNAs and ARNs in South Korea demon-strate important differences that are likely the result of different levels of education, clinical training, and autonomy. The authors also note that the current CRNA workforce is aging, and many CRNAs plan to retire within the next 10 years. Because only one university produces 10 or fewer CRNAs annually, the profession will experience major attrition in the future.

Publication Title

AANA Journal

Volume

85

Issue

5

First Page

361

Last Page

368

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