A nurse anesthetist is a registered nurse who successfully completed the accredited nurse anesthesia program. In the year 1980, the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists stipulated that all candidates to nurse anesthetist training programs should have at least an Bachelor of Science (but not necessarily having a bachelor\s education in the field of nursing) which was a requirement which was in effect from July 1987. Nurses must have at minimum one year of clinical experience prior to enrolment in an accredited nurse anesthesia program. After completion of a 2- or 3 year program, they must pass an examination for national certification.