While most cnms can be found in homes or in hospitals

controlled substances and contraceptives). While most CNMs can be found in homes or in
hospitals or birthing centers, they can also be found in acute care clinics, private offices and
community and public health systems. In order to maintain competency, a CNM must
successfully perform a minimum of 15 deliveries in the previous year (Pelletier, 2014).
Cons: Cesarean sections are not allowed and high-risk pregnancies are generally not handled by
CNMs. Hospital settings have CNMs directly under a physician who must be available and must
co-sign all the CNM’s orders (Pettetier, 2014). In addition with the national exam, there is a
recertification every 5 year, or to complete three training modules and 20 contact hours of
continued education to maintain certification (Pettetier, 2014.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Pros: CRNAs provide anesthesia to patients in many different practice settings and for all
surgeries and procedures (Schulz, 2015). CRNAs are imperative to successful surgeries, some of
which may be life-saving procedures. They care for patients before, during and after surgical
procedures. As a nurse anesthetist, you make decisions independently to protect the health and
safety of patients, which allows more control over patient care to come into action (Schulz,
2015).
Cons: CRNAs are limited to patients needing anesthesia and don’t always play an active role
throughout the entire surgery. Surgeries can be rather lengthily and sitting through long hours of
surgery can be physically taxing. CRNAs are also frequently exposed to lawsuits due to the
significance of their job.