All CRNAs will naturally focus on acquisition of clinical skills and
specialty knowledge. CRNAs must be expected to acquire the essentials of
professionalism, including accountability, humanism, physical well being,
CRNAs must place the needs of the patient above their own self-
interest. The CRNA must recognize the value of being optimally prepared to
provide patient care, recognize the need to participate in the health care
industry as a whole, respond to the needs of society and to facilitate the
optimum performance of colleagues (Wolf, 1994).
CRNAs must acquire the skills that allow appropriate doctor patient
relationship. Elements include integrity, compassion, and understanding of
diversity, excellent communication skills, dependability and full
participation in group goals (collegiality) (Newton, 1999).
CRNAs must be aware of the need for physical and mental health for
physicians to be able to care for patients. They also must be clearly aware
of the signs of physician impairment. This includes substance abuse,
alcoholism, depression, psychiatric and organic disease and aging (AANA,
2004). Appropriate techniques for intervention should be taught during
The absolutes of honesty and integrity must be a part of all CRNA
work. The CRNA should be expected to demonstrate the highest level of
moral and ethical behavior at all times in the clinical and professional
setting (American College of Physicians, 1998).
The theoretical concept of professionalism is easy to recognize in its
extremes: success and failure. Measurement is more difficult. Some
elements of professionalism in general terms include:
• A commitment to excellence
• Integrity and character
• Respect for all human beings
(Roberts, 2001)
Failure in CRNA performance regardin...