If you would like to advance in your nursing career with a specialty that can earn you an excellent salary, consider becoming a nurse anesthetist. This role requires completing advanced training and education in order to gain the skills and certification needed. Nurse anesthetists work with patients prior to, during, and after surgical procedures. They administer anesthesia to patients in order to keep them comfortable and pain-free during a wide variety of procedures, from dental to major surgeries and everything in between. This career is ideal for nurses who enjoy working directly with patients and alongside surgeons and other healthcare professionals.