The fluorescent lights hummed overhead as Alejandro Reyes stood at the head of the operating table, monitoring vitals, checking the flow of anesthesia, and preparing to guide another patient safely through surgery. It was a familiar rhythm. Calm. Methodical. Unseen by most, but essential to everyone in the room. What no one else could see in that moment was the path that brought him there.

Finding His Calling as a CRNA

Alejandro's path to anesthesia was shaped by two formative experiences: his medical education in Cuba and his time working as an ICU nurse. Both environments required critical thinking and attention to detail, and both left a lasting impression.

"During my time as an ICU nurse, I was always fascinated by the precision, calm, and vigilance required in anesthesia," he explained. "My background as a medical student in Cuba also deepened my interest in complex physiology and critical decision-making. Anesthesia felt like the perfect field to bring those passions together."

That early interest grew into a long-term vision for a career as a CRNA, which would allow him to apply both his ICU experience and his medical education in a role focused on patient safety and clinical independence.

"Becoming a CRNA was the realization of a long-held dream to continue practicing advanced medicine and provide critical care, even after starting over in a new country," he shared. "It offered me the perfect blend of autonomy, patient impact, and the chance to use my ICU background to keep people safe during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives."

Choosing a Locum Tenens Career

After several years working as a full-time CRNA within the hospital setting, Alejandro began rethinking what he wanted from his career. The clinical work was rewarding, but the structure left little room for work-life balance.

That realization prompted him to explore locum tenens work. "The flexibility and freedom were very appealing, especially after years of structured hospital schedules," he shared. "Locums also gave me the chance to explore different practice environments, meet new colleagues, and keep learning — all while better balancing my personal life."

For Alejandro, the shift to locum tenens work was a strategic choice. It gave him more control over his schedule and allowed him to keep growing clinically while staying connected to impactful patient care.

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Working as a Locum Tenens CRNA

Now one year into working full-time as a locum tenens CRNA, Alejandro has come to appreciate the variety and advantages that come with locum tenens work. "The biggest benefits are flexibility, variety, and professional growth," he explained. "Locum work keeps me challenged by exposing me to different cases and systems."

There are adjustments, of course. Walking into a new facility requires focus and adaptability. Alejandro views this as one of the biggest challenges, yet also one of the most valuable aspects of the work. "The main downside is needing to adapt quickly to new places and workflows, but that challenge can also be a strength over time."

While every new environment brings its challenges, it also opens the door to rewarding patient experiences. One such moment involved an elderly patient who was visibly anxious before surgery. "I took extra time to speak in Spanish — their first language — and explain every step," he explained. "Seeing their relief and gratitude reminded me why personal connection matters as much as clinical skill."

Recognizing the Long-Term Value of Locum Tenens Work

Reflecting on his experience, Alejandro describes the locum tenens lifestyle in three words: flexible, dynamic, empowering. Locum tenens has supported his career growth while allowing space to stay grounded in what matters to him personally.

His experience as a locum CRNA has also shaped his perspective on the future of locum tenens work. "I see locum tenens growing as healthcare becomes more fluid and clinicians look for work–life balance," he said. "I hope to continue being part of this movement, showing that you can provide excellent, consistent care even while working across multiple sites."

For CRNAs and other clinicians considering the transition to working locum tenens, Alejandro offers encouragement grounded in experience. "Be open-minded and adaptable. Ask good questions at each new assignment, and remember that while the environment changes, your core skills and compassion travel with you," he advised. "Locums can be a great way to keep your career fresh and balanced."

Staying Grounded Outside the Operating Room

Maintaining a sense of balance outside the hospital is essential to how Alejandro approaches his work. He makes time for the activities that help him reset and reflect. "Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, traveling, and staying active," he shared. These help him stay centered, especially when transitioning between locum tenens assignments and new clinical environments.

His time outside the OR also reflects a deeper sense of purpose. As a Cuban immigrant and political refugee, he brings lived experience that continues to shape how he shows up in life and medicine.

"I'm also passionate about sharing my story as a Cuban immigrant and political refugee to inspire others facing similar challenges," he shared.Medicus Locum CRNA (2)

Moving Forward with Purpose

For Alejandro, his career journey has always been about more than clinical decisions. It has been about progress. He does not frame his path in terms of hardship, but in terms of growth, direction, and the ability to keep showing up for patients with clarity and care.

"As someone who started over in a new country, I want to say that resilience and hard work truly can open doors," he expressed. "Locum tenens has given me freedom, growth, and a renewed passion for patient care, and I'm grateful for that journey."

Interested in partnering with Medicus for your CRNA locum tenens career? View our open locum jobs here or complete the short form below to connect with a Medicus recruiter.

* Please note that pseudonyms are used to protect the privacy of those featured.