I had the opportunity to shadow a CRNA during a cataract procedure. Initially, the CRNA went to see the patient in the pre-operating room, introduced herself and told the patient about the procedure and what to expect. The patient was nervous about been sedated with fears of not waking up after the procedure. The CRNA took the time to explain everything to the patient and I noticed that the patient was calmer afterwards.
I realized that a CRNA does not simply sedate patients or make them pain free, but he/she is more involved in their care before, during and after a procedure, thereby directly impacting the outcome of a procedure.