The Illinois Association of Nurse Anesthetists is a professional organization dedicated to the precept that its members are committed to the advancement of educational standards and practices relative to the profession of nurse anesthesia, to advance patient safety, and advocate CRNAs as high-quality anesthesia providers.

CRNAs are independently licensed nurses who provide anesthesia services in collaboration with physicians. These physicians may be anesthesiologists, surgeons, obstetricians, dentists, or podiatrists. Nurse anesthetists are accountable for their individual practices, and are capable of exercising independent professional judgment within their scope of competence and licenser. Anesthesia is part of nursing practice by historic and legal precedent.

Over 1000 Illinois CRNAs provide anesthesia for surgery, obstetrics, and care of trauma patients. CRNAs are also involved in the treatment of acute and chronic pain, and in the management of critically ill intensive care unit patients. In the United States, CRNAs administer more than 65% of the 30 million anesthetics each year. Nurse anesthetists are the only anesthesia providers in 85% of rural hospitals. CRNAs provide anesthesia for all types of surgeries, in every type of treatment facility, and for all levels of patient acuity.