September 14, 2026 At the 2026 Annual Congress, held Aug. 21–25 in Boston, the AANA Board of Directors approved updates to two important practice documents: Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice and Analgesia and Anesthesia for the Obstetric Patient, Practice Guidelines. Together, these documents provide current guidance to support safe, high-quality anesthesia care and informed clinical decision-making. Why the updated Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice matter to you The Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice provide a foundation for CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice in every setting where anesthesia services are delivered. They apply to anesthesia and related services for surgical, obstetric, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures, as well as pain management. The Standards were revised by the AANA Practice Committee and support consistent, patient-centered care while recognizing the CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist’s independent professional judgment. Their application must account for patient-specific circumstances, applicable laws, accreditation requirements, and facility policies. Key updates include: Additional detail on developing and documenting the plan of care Verification of advanced directives and preferences Greater focus on interdisciplinary process during patient positioning More detailed requirements for physiologic monitoring A new standard on integrating technology and decision-support tools The new technology standard emphasizes that these tools should serve as adjuncts to clinical decision-making. CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists remain responsible for independently evaluating whether their use is appropriate, evidence-based, and in the patient’s best interests. Download the updated Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice. Obstetric guidelines expand support for individualized care The updated Analgesia and Anesthesia for the Obstetric Patient, Practice Guidelines provide recommendations for managing obstetric analgesia and anesthesia during labor, delivery, and related procedures. The guidelines are designed to inform each patient’s individualized plan of care. They do not replace federal, state, or local requirements, accreditation standards, institutional policies, or professional judgment. Key updates include additional guidance on: Providing respectful care and addressing maternal health disparities Incorporating mental health considerations into assessment and planning Recognizing and managing inadequate labor analgesia and breakthrough pain during cesarean delivery Converting labor epidural analgesia to anesthesia for cesarean delivery These guidelines reinforce shared decision-making and early communication among anesthesia, obstetric, and pediatric professionals. They also emphasize considering maternal, fetal, procedural, psychosocial, and cultural factors when developing the plan of care. Download the updated Analgesia and Anesthesia for the Obstetric Patient, Practice Guidelines. Help shape future practice documents AANA practice documents are reviewed regularly to reflect current evidence and clinical practice. Through the open comment process, members can review proposed revisions and provide feedback based on their clinical experience. Participating in open comments helps ensure AANA guidance remains relevant to the CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists who apply it every day. Continue exploring To deepen your understanding and stay engaged, explore: Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice Analgesia and Anesthesia for the Obstetric Patient, Practice Guidelines Professional Practice Resources Hub How to Participate in Open Comment FAQs What are the Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice? The Standards for Nurse Anesthesia Practice provide a foundation for CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice in all settings where anesthesia services are delivered. What do the obstetric practice guidelines cover? The guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations and safety considerations for managing obstetric analgesia and anesthesia during labor, delivery, and related procedures. Why should I participate in open comment opportunities? It’s your opportunity to directly influence practice documents and ensure they reflect real-world CRNA/nurse anesthesiology experience. #Clinical practice #News Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Share Print