Nursing Professionals Respond to Recent Story on Anesthesia Dangers

The facts surrounding the late Joan Rivers’ sedation came too late.

What Seniors Should Know About Anesthesia 

By now, we all know that it was an anesthesiologist providing Joan Rivers’ anesthetic—not a certified registered nurse anesthetist. The physician anesthesiologist on the case showed a clear lack of vigilance and failed to respond in time to treat Rivers’ declining vital signs. 

The fact remains that anesthesia care today is incredibly safe. Dr. Catherine DiGregorio’s opinion that a CRNA should always be supervised by an anesthesiologist has not been supported by current research.

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Nicole Lentz Montanez, Bridgeport 

What a misleading article. We all know it was an anesthesiologist asleep at the wheel, and yet you’re trying to make it look like it was a nurse? This is why I would ask for a CRNA for my anesthesia.

Mike Hourigan, Salem, Ill.

DiGregorio believes it may have been a nurse supervising Rivers’ sedation. REALLY? How about sticking to the facts, doctor?

Penelope Strauss, Houston, Texas

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Editor’s Note

The fact that Joan Rivers’ sedation was conducted by a physician anesthesiologist was not revealed until after our story went to print. Dr. Catherine DiGregorio is not a spokesperson for the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and she did not intend to insult nurses. 

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