Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are in high demand — and the locum tenens route offers some of the best opportunities to practice at the top of your license, earn competitive pay, and explore new places.
Whether you’re newly certified, mid-career, or scaling back before retirement, locum tenens CRNA work gives you the power to shape your schedule and your income.
Daily Life on Assignment
Locum CRNA assignments range from Level 1 trauma centers to rural community hospitals and outpatient surgical centers (ASCs). Your daily responsibilities may include:
- Pre-op assessments and anesthesia planning
- Regional, general, or MAC anesthesia delivery
- Post-anesthesia care and patient handoffs
- Collaborating with anesthesiologists or working independently (state-dependent)
Some facilities require CRNAs to take call or manage obstetric cases, while others are strictly outpatient or M–F daytime blocks.
CRNA Practice Varies by State
CRNA scope of practice and supervision rules vary widely. In independent practice states like Arizona, Iowa, and New Hampshire, CRNAs can work without anesthesiologist oversight. Other states require varying levels of supervision or team-based models.
If independence is important to you, your locum agency can help target states where you can practice fully.
Why CRNAs Love Locum Tenens
- Top Pay Rates: CRNA locum rates can range from $130 to $200+ per hour, depending on location, urgency, and call requirements.
- Travel Flexibility: Choose short or long-term assignments, with paid travel and housing.
- Professional Growth: Gain exposure to new facilities, case types, and regional blocks.
- Work-Life Control: Take breaks between contracts or build a full-time career on your terms.
Best Assignments for CRNAs
Top-paying and highest-demand CRNA assignments are often in:
- Rural hospitals needing OR coverage or solo practice
- Facilities with OB or cardiac cases
- Outpatient surgery centers seeking short-term fill-ins
- States with CRNA independence and high demand (e.g. Montana, Alaska, Kansas, Wisconsin)
Credentialing & Licensing Tips
To streamline your CRNA locum career:
- Maintain up-to-date NBCRNA certification and CME logs
- Renew BLS, ACLS, and PALS proactively
- Apply for additional state licenses in compact nursing states and key CRNA-friendly regions
- Keep references and immunization records ready for credentialing
Your agency will typically cover licensing and guide you through any state-specific requirements.
What About Malpractice Coverage?
Reputable agencies (including Odyssey Staffing) provide malpractice insurance with tail coverage for all assignments — meaning you're protected during and after the contract. Always confirm that the policy meets AANA-recommended limits.
Conclusion
Locum tenens offers CRNAs a unique opportunity to grow, earn, and explore — without giving up professional control. From rural solo practice to high-acuity ORs, each assignment brings a new challenge and reward. If you're ready to see what’s out there, the CRNA locum lifestyle may be exactly what you’ve been looking for.