Jan. 9, 2026: Lakewood Health System welcomes certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) Laura Valencia as the newest provider to the anesthesia team.
Originally from Big Lake, Minn., Valencia received her undergraduate degree from Saint Catherine University and her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesiology degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. She is a member of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, the Minnesota Association of Nurse Anesthetists, and the Society of Opioid Free Anesthesia.
As a certified registered nurse anesthetist, Valencia works alongside the surgical team at Lakewood Health System, administering anesthesia and other medications to patients of all ages during medical procedures and surgeries. She is also responsible for monitoring patients during and after receiving anesthesia. Valencia has a special interest in caring for pediatric and obstetric patients and offering alternative approaches to pain management.
“I chose to work at Lakewood because it’s the kind of place where I would trust my own family and children to receive care. Every staff member is exceptional at what they do and genuinely happy to be here, creating an environment that provides unmatched patient care.”
Valencia is married and has three children. She loves spending time outdoors and on the water, especially at their family’s cabin in Canada. She enjoys relaxing with family board games and a good book.