Which type of anesthesia provider is directed by an anesthesiologist?

The term "non-physician anesthesia provider" broadly encompasses various roles, including certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and anesthesia assistants, who operate under the supervision or direction of an anesthesiologist. This is an important distinction because these providers are trained to administer anesthesia and manage patient care during procedures, all while adhering to protocols set forth by the anesthesiologist.

In practice, non-physician anesthesia providers have specialized training and license requirements that empower them to independently monitor and manage patients under anesthesia, but they typically work within a collaborative framework directed by the anesthesiologist. This supervision ensures that care is delivered safely and effectively, leveraging the anesthesiologist's extensive medical training and expertise.

While certified nurse anesthetists are indeed non-physician anesthesia providers, this label covers a wider scope that includes other roles as well, making it the most inclusive and accurate answer to the question.