DNP, CRNA Program, Med-Surg, ICU, AANA

Healthcare teamwork illuminated: A diverse group of medical professionals, representing fields like DNP, CRNA, Med-Surg, and ICU, come together under the guidance of the AANA, displaying a commitment to excellence and innovation in care.

My first contact with Nurse Anesthesia occurred during my advanced medical-surgical clinical rotation in nursing school. I was in the ICU when I witnessed a CRNA intubate a patient in respiratory distress. Deeply impressed by his calm and focused attitude and the swift effect of his work, my interest was immediately aroused.

My interest has grown over time, and I have done as much as possible to learn about the specialty over the last two and a half years and prepare myself for this application. I have taken the opportunity to shadow three highly dedicated and skilled CRNAs. I have also attended several professional Nurse Anesthesia symposia, including the Annual Congress of the AANA, a Diversity CRNA information session, and the CANA Fall meetings. I learned much about topics of current interest in the specialty. These sessions also provided opportunities to meet and talk with CRNAs and SRNAs in-depth about the position's requirements and receive their advice.

Challenging the depths of DNP and CRNA studies, a student grapples with stress and overwhelm amidst a surreal landscape, while mentors and inspiration strive to guide him toward brighter prospects.

I read ‘Watchful Care: A History of America's Nurse Anesthetists’ by Marianne Bankert, which gave me an understanding of the history of nurse anesthetists and the struggles they have experienced to overcome prejudices and develop the profession. I realize that wanting to do something does not fit one to do it. I have carefully considered the characteristics required of a first-class practitioner and the role's demands. I know the specialty is academically and professionally demanding, calling for a commitment to constantly being aware of the many exciting advances in medications, equipment, and techniques. I know that high-level communication skills are essential, with an analytical approach to problems and the ability to work swiftly and calmly under pressure and accept significant autonomy while being an influential cross-disciplinary team member.

Innovative collaboration and innovation in medical education and practice—exploring pathways in DNP, CRNA programs, Med-Surg, and ICU settings, with insights from the AANA.

I have excelled in my academic career and have acquired relevant nursing experience in Cardiac-Thoracic ICU / Surgical ICU over the last two and a half years. I have earned various certifications pertinent to my current role, which have supplemented my knowledge and helped me to hone my nursing skills. I have volunteered as a ‘champion’ on the CLASBI prevention committee. I have attended the AACN National Teaching Institute and Critical Care Exposition, gaining knowledge I could share with fellow nurses on my unit. I have qualified as a BLS and ACLS instructor and have enjoyed my teaching experience, which I hope to extend in the future.

My goal is to qualify as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), accumulate considerable experience in this critical role, and engage in meaningful research and teaching within the field. I possess the necessary characteristics, strong academic ability, foundational skill set, and potential to develop into an excellent practitioner. I have undertaken significant preparatory work, including advanced coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, and now seek to apply myself with exceptional diligence and unwavering commitment to the program. I am eager to contribute to the field of anesthesia and enhance my skills, improving patient care and outcomes through my dedication and expertise.

Why Belong to the AANA?