Schakowsky, Joyce Reintroduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National CRNA Week

WASHINGTON- Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Dave Joyce (OH-14) reintroduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing National Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) Week. For over two decades, the last week of January has been known as "National CRNA Week," a time to honor the heroic work and expertise of the over 60,000 practicing CRNAs and Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs).

"Access to quality care requires a dedicated and well-trained workforce. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) are a key component of our health care system, administering more than 50 million anesthetics to patients each year in the U.S.," said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. "I am so thankful for the nearly 2,000 CRNAs in my home state of Illinois, many of whom are the sole anesthetic provider in their county. I am proud to reintroduce this resolution with Congressman Joyce to recognize Student and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists nationwide for their service and their continued care."

"Certified registered nurse anesthetists provide heroic and transformative care through their unique expertise in the healthcare field," said Congressman Dave Joyce, Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. "I am honored to co-lead this important resolution alongside Congresswoman Schakowsky to celebrate and recognize the vital contributions CRNAs make every day throughout health systems in Ohio and across the United States."

"Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are so critical to our healthcare system, particularly for access to care for our veterans, our rural patients, and underserved populations," said AANA President Dru Riddle, PhD, DNP, CRNA, FAAN. "I want to thank Representatives Schakowsky and Joyce for introducing this resolution to recognize the importance of CRNA week and the contributions of CRNAs to our healthcare system."

Since the Civil War, CRNAs have served patients in combat zones and continue today in operating rooms, surgical centers, and more. CRNAs are highly educated and skilled anesthesia experts who deliver specialized care to all patients - from infants to seniors. Nurse anesthetists devote countless hours each year to saving lives and advancing patient care. This resolution honors CRNA's hard work and commitment to the well-being of Americans.

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