The Nurse Anesthetist

One nurse brings autonomy, expertise, and compassion into every procedure she touches

Welcome to Nurse Ascent, a twice-weekly newsletter created by nurses, for nurses. For our debut issue, we spotlight the role of the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to provide valuable insights into this specialty. We also share JOBS available now through Mayo Clinic, as well as news on looming Medicare and Medicaid cuts, a court ruling that protects critical NIH-funded research, and how virtual nursing is already reshaping patient care.

Each issue includes:

Interviews with nurses across specialties
Curated job openings from trusted employers
Timely healthcare news and policy updates

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Nurse Spotlight: Nuzhet Meridew, DNAP, CRNA, APRN

Nuzhet Meridew; DNAP, CRNA, APRN; is pictured.

What I do for work

As a resource nurse anesthetist at Mayo Clinic, I rotate across departments—from the OR to interventional radiology, gastroenterology, and bedside sedation—depending on where I’m needed. I provide anesthesia and pain control in both medically directed and independent roles, with a high scope of practice. My responsibilities include patient assessments, prescribing medications, and managing care before, during, and after procedures. I maintain airway support, adjust anesthesia as needed, and perform intubations, insert IVs and arterial lines, and provide ventilator support. While trained in regional anesthesia and central line placement, I don’t currently perform those tasks in my role.

How I got here

I first learned about CRNAs while working in intensive care—one provider’s name tag caught my eye, and I asked about the role. After shadowing a CRNA, I became fascinated and knew it was the path for me. I spent seven years gaining experience in various ICUs before applying to a doctoral CRNA program.

To become a CRNA, you must earn a BSN, then work in an ICU to build clinical experience. From there, you apply to a nurse anesthesia program to earn a Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia—a three-year commitment that has replaced the former master’s requirement.

Featured Jobs at Mayo Clinic

🩺

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist - CRNA

Phoenix, AZ

Apply Now →

☤

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist - CRNA

Jacksonville, FL

Apply Now →

♡

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist - CRNA

Rochester, MN

Apply Now →

💉

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist - CRNA

Eau Claire, WI

Apply Now →

🩹

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist - CRNA

La Crosse, WI

Apply Now →

🩸

Registered Nurse - ICU - RN

Eau Claire, WI

Apply Now →

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More on Nuzhet Meridew

A day in my life

In my non-medically directed role, I begin each day by reviewing patient charts, conducting pre-op assessments, and preparing the operating room. I meet with the patient to gather additional details, then induce anesthesia, provide airway support, and intubate if needed. Throughout the procedure, I monitor vitals, manage pain, and adjust medications based on the patient’s needs. I have significant autonomy in making clinical decisions. After surgery, I help wake the patient, accompany them to PACU, and ensure they receive the right care and medications before discharge.

What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?

One of the most fulfilling moments is when a patient comes in terrified of the procedure or surgery. I can make them comfortable with anesthesia, and I feel happy when they say they feel great afterward. I appreciate having the autonomy to provide patients with what they need.

Additionally, my burnout level is lower; I don’t feel drained after a 12-hour shift, and I experience a high level of job satisfaction. The ability to self-schedule has also contributed to a healthier lifestyle and improved quality of life.

My self-care routine (or what I do for fun, or to relax)

I particularly enjoy exercising, especially running, as it helps keep my mind clear. I also love cooking and spending time with my dog. My favorite moments are spent at home, watching Netflix with my husband on one side and my dog on the other.

Headlines in Healthcare

‘Big, Beautiful’ ... Cuts

As of the sending of this newsletter, the Senate was holding a marathon “vote-a-rama” on Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” in an effort to pass it before the president’s self-imposed July 4 deadline. The proposal includes deep Medicaid cuts—nearly $1 trillion over 10 years—alongside stricter work requirements. It would also increase the deficit, triggering automatic Medicare cuts under federal PAYGO rules unless Congress acts.

A Win for Public Health

In a decision to help protect public health and critical research for life-threatening illnesses, federal courts have ruled that the NIH’s actions targeting this research were unlawful and therefore void. Research scientists are celebrating this as a win that uphold the rigorous scientific process that has previously been in place by the NIH.

Is Virtual Nursing the Future of Care?

As telehealth expands and technology becomes more embedded in clinical practice, virtual nursing is gaining ground. From AI-powered documentation support to remote patient monitoring, hospitals are already incorporating tech-driven tools into everyday care. Nurses are being called to consider how these innovations align with ethical standards and shape the future of compassionate care.

Meet the author:
Renee DLamini
(RN, BSN, Writer)

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