The Provider Non-Discrimination law from the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits commercial payers from discrimi-nating against providers based on their licensure, has been in effect for more than a decade now. In 2020, Congress re-quired the federal government to issue rules and enforcement policies that would prevent commercial payers from dis-criminating against providers. But enforcement isn’t happening, and deadlines keep getting missed. This has led to two big commercial payers to institute policies paying CRNAs 15% less than physician anesthesiologists for the exact same services, which has created a discriminatory environment.

On September 27, 2024, the AANA took action to protect patients' access to care and prevent further discrimination on its members by filing a writ of mandamus against the Biden administration for failure to do more to enforce this law. Why did AANA feel compelled to bring this lawsuit? What does this mean for CRNAs and the facilities where they work? And ultimately, what does this mean for the patients they serve?

Today, we're going to get the latest and learn the details from AANA CEO Bill Bruce, AANA President Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret), ASAFR, NC, and AANA President-elect Jeff Molter, MBA, MSN, CRNA. This could be a huge moment in time for the profession and we’re going to fill you in on everything the AANA hopes to accomplish.

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Why now for the lawsuit and what exactly does the writ of mandamus mean?
• The cost shift that will happen and what it means for billing.
• Are CRNAs able to recoup financial damages?
• Can AANA members get involved?
• What is the AANA doing to further prevent Anthem’s policy or stopping Cigna’s policy?
• What is the timeline for everything moving forward?

 

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We’ve seen and heard a lot of questions about the new Maintaining Anesthesia Certification (MAC) Program from the NBCRNA so we’re going to tackle as many of those as we can head-on with incoming president Garry Brydges, PhD, DNP, MBA, CRNA, ACNP-BC, FAAN. This innovative four-year program is designed to streamline credentialing and reflect CRNA's commitment to continuous improvement in safe, quality patient care, and we’ll discuss all of the details today.

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

The history of the CPC program and all of the dialogue surrounding it at the beginning.

What is the role of the Board of Nursing compared to the NBCRNA?

Why do the modules go away?

What can you expect from the questions and how are they evaluating scores?

Why do they want to know how confident you are in answers?

 

About the MAC program: https://www.nbcrna.com/certification-programs/mac 

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

***Use coupon code BEYOND1999 to get 20% off through November 2024

Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate 

Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

As science improves, we’re learning more and more about brain health and how to maintain our youth even as we age. Today we’re joined by Ryan Sullivan, CFP®, CRPC®, RCC™ of Hartford Funds to share the valuable knowledge he’s gained from a partnership with the MIT Age Lab and explore how simple lifestyle changes can significantly impact our brain health and, consequently, our financial future.

Ryan is the Vice President and Managing Director of Applied Insights with Hartford Funds. They have a partnership with the MIT Age Lab to better grasp how we make decisions and what motivates us as we age. Understanding these insights and how they tie into our finances can help us improve our long-term outlook.   

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Some of the factors that keep your brain from aging at the same rate as your body.
• How can you get a sense of what your brain age is?
• Our brain creates trash that needs to be removed from our bodies or else it will accumulate with enough sleep.
• The costs that are associated with cognitive health decline and how we incorporate that into retirement planning.
• Our diet is connected to our brain health.

 

Check out ‘The Age-Proof Brain’: https://a.co/d/9XV4j46

 

About our guest: https://www.hartfordfunds.com/practice-management/applied-insights-team/john-diehl-bio.html

 

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

 

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

***Use coupon code BEYOND1999 to get 20% off through November 2024

 

Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

 

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Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

 

 

Jeremy and Sharon were up in Hershey for the PANA Spring Symposium and hosted a live taping of the podcast with Brett Fadgen, MSN, CFRN, CRNA. If you haven’t heard Brett’s story, it’s a remarkable one about perseverance and never giving up in the face of life’s challenges. Join us to hear all about his journey and how he became the only one-armed nurse anesthetist.  

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Brett’s childhood and growing up with a congenital defect. 3:21
• The journey from being a paramedic to RN to anesthesia school.  9:05
• The challenges he faced in anesthesia school. 13:47
• The contact he has with other people with limitations that are interested in anesthesia. 23:55
• What questions do patients ask? 26:15
• The final message Brett has for people. 32:00

 

About our guest: https://www.panaforqualitycare.com/single-post/2019/01/23/crna-inspires-by-defying-stereotypes-exceeding-expectations

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

We had a chance to spend some time with the new AANA Deputy Chief Advocacy Officer Ingrida Lusis during our time at the mid-year assembly to learn more about her background in government affairs and how she plans to strengthen advocacy by bringing state and federal affairs all under one umbrella. Join Sharon and guest host Tracy Castleman, CRNA, as we go on the offensive with our newest advocacy leader.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Ingrida’s background in government affairs and her goals for the new position. 3:03
• Why she feels CRNAs need to go on the offensive. 7:46
• Her thoughts and views on full practice authority. 9:52
• What other ways we can look at to give CRNAs more power besides just running for office? 18:15
• Why supporting the ASAPAC is very important. 22:36
• The perception of the AANA vs the reality when she arrived. 29:01
• What would she say to get people involved that hate politics? 33:24

 

About our guest: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aana-appoints-ingrida-lusis-as-deputy-chief-advocacy-officer-301703396.html 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Cannabis has several medicinal uses and is legal in several states. More and more patients are using cannabis as a medication for anxiety, pain management, and for recreational use.

In this episode, Jeremy and Sass discuss the pharmacodynamics of cannabis and focus on the systemic effects of this medication. You won’t want to miss their discussion highlighting the anesthetic considerations of patients who takes cannabis.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Adapting to cannabis becoming more acceptable recreationally and for care with patients. 2:29
• The pharmacokinetics related to cannabis. 4:32
• Reviewing an AANA Journal article on cannabis. 7:54
• The respiratory effects you might find from cannabis.  9:25
• The anesthetic implications for a cannabis user. 11:58
• Does cannabis help with pain management? 15:01

 

Resources:

1. Teitel A, Bozimowski G. A Review of the Pharmacology and Anesthetic Implications of Cannabis. AANA J. 2020 Jun;88(3):237-244. PMID: 32442102.

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Voting started this week for the next round of AANA Board of Directors elections, and we want to help you get to know your candidates a little better. Thanks to our friends at the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, we will share the opening statements from the Board of Director Candidates’ Forum during the Mid-Year Assembly so you can hear first-hand from each of the talented CRNAs running for office.

 

Remember that you can cast your vote now so visit the AANA Election Center and get all of the information you need.

 

Here’s who you’ll hear from on this show:

• Candidate for Director: Mike MacKinnon, DNP, FNP-C, CRNA 2:04
• Candidate for Director: Jodie Szlachta, PhD, RN, CRNA 4:05
• Candidate for Director: Andrea Roberts, DNAP, CRNA, APRN 6:06
• Candidate for Director: Howie Goodwin, DNAP, CRNA 8:07
• Candidate for Director: Susan Newell, MSN, CRNA 10:10
• Candidate for Director: Daniel King, DNP, CRNA, CPPS 12:12
• Candidate for Director: Stacy Yancey, CRNA 14:21
• Candidate for Treasurer: Eric Rauch, DNP, CRNA 16:21
• Candidate for Treasurer: Kristie Hoch, DNP, CRNA 19:33
• Candidate for Vice President: Jeffrey Molter, MSN, MBA, CRNA 22:30
• Candidate for President-Elect: Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col (ret) 25:32

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

The issue of reimbursement is one that we’ve covered from many different perspectives on this show but now it’s time to take the problem into our own hands. Rebecca Love, RN, MSN, FIEL is leading a commission along with Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA for nurse reimbursement to tackle this broken financial model once and for all. Today we’ll tell you all about the commission’s plan and why we think this will transform the healthcare system and help end the terrible nursing crisis our country is facing.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• History of the current financial model and why it’s a problem. 4:00
• Why is this perpetuating the nursing shortage? 9:21
• Where is the money going right now if it’s not going to nurses? 14:30
• This next generation is much more in tune with the financial realities of the world.  19:55
• The problem with nurses that are being brought in from overseas. 26:59
• Details on the commission, who is involved, and what you can do to help. 32:06
• Thoughts on why this is so critical for nursing moving forward. 36:27

 

About the Commission: https://commissionfornursereimbursement.com/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Emergency cricothyrotomy is a rare, but incredibly important procedure that can be lifesaving. A primary step when performing a cricothyrotomy is correct identification of the cricothyroid membrane (CTM). 

In this episode Jeremy and Sass discuss the anatomy related to the CTM. They talk about palpation methods for finding the CTM, discuss current evidence for the use of ultrasound identification, and break down the ultrasound techniques that are useful in clinical practice. This is the podcast that will excite you to use POCUS for identification of the CTM!

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Understanding and identifying the anatomy. 2:21
• The two most effective ways to find the cricothyroid membrane. 8:32
• A couple of relevant studies that provide good information. 12:45
• The ultrasound procedure to help identify it. 17:19
• The educational resources that Jeremy recommends. 21:48
• The String of Pearls technique. 22:40

 

Show Notes & Resources:

1. Kristensen MS, Teoh WH, Rudolph SS. Ultrasonographic identification of the cricothyroid membrane: best evidence, techniques, and clinical impact. Br J Anaesth. 2016 Sep;117 Suppl 1:i39-i48. doi: 10.1093/bja/aew176. Epub 2016 Jul 17. PMID: 27432055.
2. Rai Y, You-Ten E, Zasso F, De Castro C, Ye XY, Siddiqui N. The role of ultrasound in front-of-neck access for cricothyroid membrane identification: A systematic review. J Crit Care. 2020 Dec;60:161-168. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2020.07.030. Epub 2020 Aug 13. PMID: 32836091. Journal of Anaesthesia, Volume 117, Issue suppl_1, September 2016, Pages i39–i48, https://doi.org/10.1093/bja/aew176
3. Hung KC, Chen IW, Lin CM, Sun CK. Comparison between ultrasound-guided and digital palpation techniques for identification of the cricothyroid membrane: a meta-analysis. Br J Anaesth. 2021 Jan;126(1):e9-e11. doi: 10.1016/j.bja.2020.08.012. Epub 2020 Sep 28. PMID: 32896429.
4. Kristensen MS, Teoh WH. Ultrasound identification of the cricothyroid membrane: the new standard in preparing for front-of-neck airway access. Br J Anaesth. 2021 Jan;126(1):22-27. doi: 10.1016/j.bja.2020.10.004. Epub 2020 Oct 31. PMID: 33131758.
5. Siddiqui N, Arzola C, Friedman Z, Guerina L, You-Ten KE. Ultrasound Improves Cricothyrotomy Success in Cadavers with Poorly Defined Neck Anatomy: A Randomized Control Trial. Anesthesiology. 2015 Nov;123(5):1033-41. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000000848. PMID: 26352376.
6. Airway Management for Anaesthesiologists. Ultrasound guided marking of the cricothyroid membrane using:
   1. Transverse TACA Technique: https://airwaymanagement.dk/ultrasound_needle_cricothyrotomy
   2. Longitudinal “String of Pearls” Technique: airwaymanagement.dk/pearls

 

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

One of the things you find out about CRNAs as they approach retirement is that their bank account might be ready for retirement but they might not be. Many people don’t consider the consequences of walking away from that daily routine of being at the hospital and interacting with colleagues, and not being prepared for that can leave you with a lack of fulfillment in retirement. Today we’ll discuss the importance of not only planning financially for retirement but also preparing emotionally and mentally for this significant life change.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Most CRNAs fall in one of two camps when they retire. 5:50
• Has COVID caused more burnout among CRNAs? 7:41
• Why it’s so important to develop a plan for the next stage of life. 11:29
• You have to be prepared for a retirement that could last for 40 years. 18:09
• What is the sweet spot for retirement? 24:28
• The important takeaways from this discussion. 31:35

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

The military isn’t a career path for everyone but those that choose that life get an experience and training that can’t be found anywhere else. Today we spend some time with one of those wonderful people to learn more about life in the military as a CRNA and the lessons that were learned along the way.

Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA is a retired Colonel with the US Air Force Reserve Nurse Corps and someone we talked to last year about how she helped bring full practice authority to that branch of the military. Today she joins us to tell us more about her time in the military, how it helped prepare her for civilian life, and what she thinks will happen with the VA issue still being debated.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• What made her decide to serve? 6:45
• The advantages and disadvantages to being in the military. 9:00
• Why she made the switch from flight nurse to CRNA. 13:57
• Jan’s insight on the VA issue and what she’s seen. 18:31
• What are the differences in CRNA training in the military vs civilian world. 27:43
• Jan details what it was like going to war. 30:00
• Is there a threat to independent practice for the military? 40:40

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) is a rare and dreaded complication specific to anesthesia. It’s a systemic hypermetabolic syndrome that can result in severe disability or even death. In this episode Jeremy and Sass review the pathophysiology, preoperative considerations, signs and symptoms, complications, and management of this uncommon, but significant critical event.

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The pathophysiology of Malignant Hyperthermia 3:29
• How can you identify patients who might be at risk of MH? 5:54
• What’s the best way to test for this and what are the major signs and symptoms? 9:44
• How do we manage an MH case when we think we have one? 15:48
• The antidote to make this situation stop. 19:10
• Details on dosing. 23:06
• The potential complications that could occur. 26:43

 

Resources:

• Connect with the Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States (MHAUS): 1-800-664-9737 https://www.mhaus.org/

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Today we’re excited to dive into a topic we’ve been very curious about with a guest we’ve had the pleasure of interviewing previously. Tom Davis, DNAP, MAE, CRNA is an Air Force-trained CRNA with a lot of high-level experience in anesthesia, and throughout his CRNA career, he’s really focused on two aspects of the profession: healthcare leadership and patient safety. In doing this, he’s learned so much about emotional intelligence and the role it plays in creating a preferred workplace. He joins us this episode to define emotional intelligence, explain why listening is crucial, and help us better understand how we can improve our own EI.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• What does emotional intelligence look like? 5:11
• The role that emotional intelligence plays in the workplace. 8:04
• Why listening is at the heart of emotional intelligence. 11:32
• Level 3 and Level 4 listening is so important in connecting with people. 17:45
• How emotional intelligence can help improve the CRNA shortage. 21:53
• What is the ‘drama triangle’? 25:25
• Amygdala hijack and the emotional response that happens. 33:24
• The behavioral continuum and how it impacts what you think, say and do. 42:41
• What’s the best leadership style for the workplace and how can you bring in emotionally intelligent people? 46:46

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

In the latest episode of Beyond the Mask, Sharon Pearce and guest co-host Carole Doyscher, CRNA, BSN, MS, APRN are joined by Lori Schirle, CRNA, PhD, an assistant professor at Vanderbilt University. We heard her topic at the AANA Annual Congress and wanted to bring her on to discuss the cutting-edge research on pain sensitivity and its implications for CRNAs and advanced practice nurses. Join us as Lori shares her extensive research on pain sensitivity, opioid prescribing practices, and the future of personalized pain management.

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• What is pain sensitivity and how does it impact CRNA practice?
• Measuring pain sensitivity through a process called Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST).
• How can this research be used and what studies might be coming next?
• The role the AANA Foundation played in her position as one of the few full-time CRNA researchers.
• Pain sensitivity and its impact on postoperative outcomes.

 

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

 

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

***Use coupon code BEYOND1999 to get 20% off through November 2024

 

Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

 

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Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Are you a CRNA who feels lost in the complicated world of retirement planning? With many different accounts and investment options, it’s easy to make mistakes when it comes to your finances. In this episode, Jeremy Stanley, CFP® will cover some of the mistakes CRNAs make with their retirement plan and help you better understand how to best utilize different account types to save for the future.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The different types of retirement accounts CRNAs commonly have. 3:50
• What you should do with those retirement accounts with former employers? 7:52
• Are you rebalancing your portfolio enough? 10:12
• Why Target Date Funds aren’t as effective as you might believe. 11:26
• Do you know what fees and costs you’re paying? 15:35
• Investing options for CRNAs who are 1099 and independent contractors 18:12
• Final retirement planning thoughts from Jeremy. 29:28

 

Get retirement planning assistance: http://crnafinancialplanning.com

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

We all experience acute stress. Sometimes on a daily basis. In this episode Jeremy breaks down acute stress and talks about the anatomy and physiology of stress. He reviews a theory on how highly stressful situations can affect our thinking and performance. He also points out how a certain amount of acute stress is actually helpful.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The anatomy of stress – what role does each part of the body play? (4:08)
• A theory of the psychology and physiology of stress. (11:01)
• The right amount of stress can actually be a motivator and enhance performance. (13:48)
• The BVM acronym provides strategies for handling stress. (15:45)

 

Resources:

• David Grossman –On Combat: The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and in Peace by Lt.-Col. Dave Grossman and Loren W. Christensen, PPCT Research Publications, 2004.
• A good site to see a representation of Grossmans’ Graph of how stress affects one’s psychological and physiological response: https://www.cdnfirefighter.com/stress-management-5807/
• Marcus, Hani, et al. (2013). Practice makes perfect? The role of simulation-based deliberate practice. Neurosurgery 72:A124-A130.
• Bramson, Rachel, et al. (2011). Comparing the effects of mental imagery rehearsal and physical practice. Annals of Behavioral Science and Medical Education, Vol. 17, No. 2, 3-6.

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

More nurses are leaving the bedside every year and it has created a shortage nationally. If you’re listening to this podcast, you probably already know good and well about this issue. So what can be done to attract and keep more nurses? Former ANA president Ernest Grant, PhD, RN, FAAN joins us to sort through this pressing issue within the profession and share ideas about what can be done at every level to solve the problem.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Why is this crisis different than past nursing shortages. 4:30
• What can be done on the frontend through school and attractive jobs to get more people interested in the profession? 9:25
• What he thinks nurses want in their work environment based on what he’s learned. 20:27
• Can the government do anything to help with the shortage? 26:55
• Why ratios might not be the solution in some locations. 31:34
• What does he think will actually happen in the upcoming years. 38:01

 

Check out Ernest Grant's previous appearance on the podcast: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ep-139-nursing-politics-and-the-future-of-our-country-with-ernest-grant-phd-rn-faan/2960/ 

About our guest: https://www.nursingworld.org/news/news-releases/2022-news-releases/ana-president-dr.-ernest-grant-named-among-modern-healthcares-top-100-most-influential-people-in-health-care/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

The CRNA profession continues to be a strong career path that allows you to comfortably save for retirement, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t always have a backup plan just in case. As we’ve seen over the last few years, crazy things can happen that shake up our day-to-day routines at a moment's notice. In this episode, we’ll talk with Plan B CRNA Podcast host Bobby Jones, MSN about how anyone can start a side hustle, and maybe more importantly, how and why they should consider it.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Why he began his podcast in order to help CRNAs with side hustles and wealth building. 5:20
• The reason why most small businesses fail. 18:27
• What’s he learned about cryptocurrency, being a loan signing agent, merchant processing, and holiday side hustles. 24:14
• What pushed him to start the podcast and why did he want to focus on CRNAs. 30:08
• Why you need to be prepared financially for the unexpected by having a plan B. 38:30

 

About our guest: https://www.oncallinvestments.com/

Check out the Plan B CRNA Podcast: https://theplanbcrnapodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Many CRNAs are returning to school to earn their Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice but is it worth it to spend the time and money to earn another degree? You can find plenty of information and discussion about DNP project topics and people that have earned their DNP, but it’s not as easy to find a thorough explanation of how to go through that process and the actual value it provides. Devin Miller, CRNA, DNP joins the show today to get into the details of a DNP and tell us why he feels it can empower nurses after completing the program.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Background on the topic today and why Devin wanted to share more on getting your DNP. 3:59
• Details on Devin’s DNP project. 8:56
• What’s the point of going back to get your DNP? 17:23
• Do you have to aspire to work in teaching at some point? 26:54
• How to find your DNP project. 32:00
• Don’t let yourself resist empowerment as a nurse. 48:29

 

About our guest: https://school.wakehealth.edu/education-and-training/nursing-programs/doctor-of-nursing-practice-program/projects/educational-intervention-to-improve-awareness-and-knowledge

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Even in 2023, residual paralysis from neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) is still a problem. Recently a task force developed by the ASA released guidelines for the reversal of NMBA. Jeremy and Sass examine these guidelines and talk about what they mean for current anesthesia practice.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Background on this report and the three primary reasons for these guidelines. (2:30)
• What to know about the Train of Four ratio (6:34)
• The first three recommendations the guidelines provide. (10:31)
• Recommendations four through seven. (17:33)
• The final recommendation about atracurium and cisatracurium. (26:23)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Bill Bruce, MBA, CAE, took over as the CEO of the AANA last summer so we caught up with him to get an update on how the organization has progressed over his first eight months. It’s already been a busy term already with staffing changes and the AANA moving into a new building, but there are many policy issues to be managed and addressed as well. Join us as we find out what’s happening inside the AANA and how the organization is tackling key issues.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Update on the new AANA building the organization moved into a few months ago. (4:15)
• The efforts to make the organization more modernized and efficient, and the key staff changes that have occurred (9:49)
• What is the organization doing about supervision with current guidelines set to expire soon? (18:12)
• What’s the status of the VA and full practice authority? (23:48)
• The other big advocacy issues the AANA is paying close attention to. (27:38)
• How he’s adjusted to the new position as an ‘outsider.’ (29:51)

 

Listen to our first conversation with Bill:

https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ep-195-meet-the-new-aana-ceo-bill-bruce/3864/ 

About our guest: https://www.aana.com/about-us/aana-staff-directors  

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

We focus quite a bit on specific people or issues in nursing, but it’s always great to take a few steps back and take a high-level view of the profession. Today we’re excited to welcome someone who has been incredibly influential and has used that position to give back through service and endowment. Becky Patton, DNP, RN, CNOR, FAAN joins the show to give us a thorough assessment of the state of nursing today and address some of the industry's key questions and challenges. 

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The work she’s done in nursing through service, policy, endowment, and working with past Presidents. 2:28
• The issues she feels are most important right now. 8:29
• Why she feels relationships and shift times are why so many nurses are leaving the profession early in their careers. 12:07
• Can we change the current model for nursing? 20:39
• Her thoughts on the fraudulent nursing degrees that have been in the news. 27:10
• Incorporating policy into the coursework for nursing students. 38:06
• Her favorite memory from serving as ANA president.  45:25

 

Get her book: https://www.amazon.com/Nurses-Making-Policy-Third-Boardroom/dp/0826166458/ 

About our guest: https://case.edu/nursing/about/fpb-directories/faculty-directory/rebecca-m-patton 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Hypovolemic shock is the final shock state in this series of episodes that focuses on the identification, management, and differential diagnosis of different shock states. Jeremy and Sass discuss current treatment options for a patient experiencing hypovolemic shock and some of the various problems that can occur during this crisis.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Which medications should you hold and which ones are okay to continue taking during surgery? (5:10)
• The different options for differential diagnosis. (9:09)
• The two variations of hypovolemic shock. (13:08)
• The mechanism of cardiac compromise at the cellular level. (17:33)
• What interventions can you take to save the patient if the bleeding begins? (20:16)
• A few questions relating to this topic to help students prepare. (27:51)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Every year it seems like more and more nurses are taking an active interest in politics, both local and regional, and today’s guest is someone who’s been on the rise as a public official.  Sara Rodriguez, a nurse and community leader, won her campaign in Wisconsin to become the state’s next Lieutenant Governor and joins us today to talk about her shift from public health to policymaker.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Her background in public health and the Peace Corps. 3:13
• How COVID triggered her transition into politics. 6:23
• Using her background and nurse training to better communicate with the community when campaigning.   9:27
• From serving in the legislature to Lt. Governor, what that jump has been like. 12:55
• Does she think COVID and the pandemic would have been different if more nurses in politics. 18:14
• What would she tell nurses who are considering running for a position? 24:48
• The final thoughts she wants to leave for nurses. 32:49

 

About our guest:  https://www.saraforwi.com/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Today we have the pleasure of hosting Ike Bartel, BSN, RN, CCRN, an aspiring CRNA from Kansas. Ike's journey from being an RN to pursuing a career as a CRNA is a testament to the power of mentorship in the nursing community. Ike has pioneered a mentorship program specifically designed to guide and support RNs on their path to becoming CRNAs. Today we’ll learn all about his journey, the inception of his mentorship program, and the impact it has had on the nursing community.

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Why he decided to establish a mentorship network and the vision he has for it.
• You don’t have to be a CRNA to advocate for CRNAs.
• Get plugged into the community to identify needs and partner with local leaders to help meet those needs.
• Why a RN to CRNA pipeline is important.
• How can registered nurses get involved with the AANA and their state associations?

 

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

 

Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

 

Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate 

 

Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Nearly all of us have been in a situation where we’ve noticed something off or not right about someone we work with or someone we know but we didn’t say anything or take action. It’s a problem across the country, but the CRNA profession has a higher rate of substance use disorders than the general public.  

So how can we do a better job identifying and helping our peers who feel isolated and suffer from a substance use disorder? Today’s guest has spent a lot of her time in recent years trying to help educate people in this area. Leigh Taylor, DNP, MS, CRNA, APRN, presented at the AANA Annual Congress, which is where we first saw her and knew it’s a topic we wanted to spend more time discussing on the podcast.

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Background on Leigh and the topic we’re discussing. 2:36
• The substance abuse disorder data within the CRNA community. 6:50
• Why does she think this is so prevalent in the community? 8:10
• The stats show about 10% of CRNAs have an SUD. 13:46
• The signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for 20:46
• Where can you go to get help for someone? Here are some of the resources that are available. 26:05
• The other drugs that are most common in those with SUDs. 30:18
• What can you do if you feel like you’re suffering from this but afraid to speak up. 36:25

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

It’s not uncommon to use push-dose vasopressors for blood pressure management in anesthesia practice. Maybe even more so now than in the past.

Jeremy and Sass talk about the various options and situations for blousing vasopressors, and perhaps most importantly which one to use. In fact, recently there was a Journal Course in the AANA Journal talking about the increased (and safe) use of push dose Norepinephrine which they review in this episode.

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Why we’re administering push-dose vasopressors more often now. (2:18)
• Different vasopressors that we use. (7:09)
• Here’s our scenario for treatment for this episode. (10:45)
• What the research tells us. (13:03)
• Comparing phenylephrine to ephedrine. (18:03)
• How effective norepinephrine is and what are the concerns? (19:26)
• The best method for administering norepinephrine. (21:27)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Last year, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law, and one of the items that received many of the headlines was the $80 billion allocated to the Internal Revenue Service.

This will impact every taxpayer but what does it mean specifically for CRNAs and other nurses. Your work earns a nice paycheck every year so tax changes will have an impact on you. Plus, there’s a lot to pay attention to if you’re a business owner or a 1099 worker, which is a group that many CRNAs will fall into.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Background on why we’re talking about the IRS today. 2:25
• How is this money being distributed and what will it be used for? 6:58
• The IRS has the fewest auditors than at any time since WWII. Let’s look at some of the current auditing data. 11:48
• How can CRNAs that are 1099 plan for this legislation? 16:42
• Some final advice for CRNAs from Jeremy. 20:51

 

Contact CRNA Financial Planning: https://www.crnafinancialplanning.com/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

The 20th century was filled with advancements in nursing and anesthesia with much of the innovation coming in the world of pediatrics. One of the women who had a huge hand in improving the care for children was Betty Lank, who worked as the Chief Nurse Anesthetist at Boston Children’s Hospital for decades.   Today we’ll look back and her life and career with Nancy Bruton-Maree, CRNA, and Sandy Ouellette, CRNA and try to capture the impact she made on a hospital and a profession.  

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this episode:

• The early life and childhood for Betty growing up in Canada. (3:22)
• How she became passionate about nursing after World War I. (5:16)
• What she accomplished during her time as the Chief Nurse Anesthetist in Boston. (8:31)
• Her role in advancing pediatric anesthesia. (17:50)
• The early involvement she had in state and national associations. (29:06)
• Her final resting place and how she’s remembered. (34:43)
• Nancy and Sandy’s final thoughts on Betty. (37:58)

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

You’re quietly sitting behind the drape and all of a sudden you see significant dysrhythmias on the ECG during an operation. Now what?

In this episode Jeremy and Sass review a case of Cardiogenic Shock and go over the crisis checklist for this critical event. They also examine current diagnostic strategies and potential differential diagnoses.

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Thinking about the cardiovascular system in three separate parts (2:18)
• Here’s the case we’re facing on today’s episode. (3:19)
• What are the initial thoughts on this overall picture? (4:33)
• What are the goals for managing this patient? (7:13)
• What happens if you see ST changes interoperatively? (9:48)
• Signs, symptoms and diagnostic criteria of cardiogenic shock. (12:13)
• What is prescribed? (19:50)
• The primary goal for this type of patient is to get them to the Cath lab. (24:12)
• Here’s a question to test your knowledge. (25:03)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

We talk all the time about the lack of nurse representation in policy-making positions, but that doesn’t make the data any less surprising. Today we’ll have a great discussion with Darlene Curley, EdD, RN, FAAN, about a study she recently completed on state nurse legislators. She’ll share some of the details with us in this episode and we’ll also have a wide-ranging discussion on how CRNAs and other nurses can continue increasing their involvement.  

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• How she took an interest in community engagement and volunteering to a policy level.  (5:17)
• Would the pandemic have looked different if more nurses would have been in more leadership positions? (12:21)
• Background on the study and what she found. (18:08)
• Why she thinks the trend is going  (24:14)
• How can each of us support the nurses in these leadership positions. 26:09)
• How does a policy-maker decide about an issue without a background on that issue? (30:36)
• What are we losing by not having nurses representing us in all 50 states? (45:21)

 

Read the State Nurse Legislature study: https://www.nursingworld.org/~4a6c69/globalassets/practiceandpolicy/advocacy/state/9.12.22-status-report--nurse-state-legislators-2020-22.pdf 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

During our visit to the NCANA meeting last fall, we had the opportunity to host a live podcast about lobbying for your state association and we had the pleasure of bringing NCANA lobbyists Patrick Ballantine and Tracy Kimbrell onto the panel with us.

Both of them have been tremendous assets to our association because of their passion for lobbying. We explored that role to find out what skills it takes, how to utilize a lobbyist, and what you should expect from them.  

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Background on our guests today and how they got into lobbying for the NCANA. (2:38)
• What qualities does a legislator look for in a lobbyist? (7:09)
• What is the ultimate goal of lobbying? (9:50)
• How should the lobbyist interact with the organization? (15:49)
• How do you keep different groups and issues separated? (22:52)
• The importance of Lobby Days. (39:20)
• How can you evaluate the work your lobbyist is doing? (45:04)

 

About our guest:  

https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/tracy-w-kimbrell

https://www.ballantinecompany.com/profile.html

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

The latest update to the ASA Difficult Airway Algorithm has a number of key changes that Jeremy and Sass will take you through in this episode of the podcast. You’ll notice that the Algorithm is much more practical and easier to use in an emergency. Overall there’s been a massive emphasis placed on situational awareness and limiting attempts, and for the first time, there are guidelines for pediatric difficult airways.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The updates to the algorithm that you should be aware of. (2:21)
• The most important changes in this fourth iteration. (3:14)
• Why airway management might not be safer today than it’s been in the past. (6:15)
• Intubation awake vs after induction. (9:17)
• Providing oxygen throughout airway management. (12:54)
• An update on capnography. (15:20)
• A greater emphasis on the passage of time. (16:09)
• Combination techniques. (19:01)
• Follow-up care suggestions. (20:38)

 

Read more about the algorithm: https://pubs.asahq.org/anesthesiology/article/136/1/31/117915/2022-American-Society-of-Anesthesiologists

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Necessity is the mother of invention and today’s guest is a living example of that. Suzanne Jagger, DNP, CRNA, APRN, was on vacation in Fiji when she got an email that her contract was up. Without work and a family to care for, she quickly decided on the trip to learn Botox and ended up starting her own business soon after returning home.

Now Suzanne is helping other CRNAs and NPs learn how to follow her path to start their own aesthetic injectables practice, and she’ll share that experience on this episode.

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The fascinating story of how she got started in this business. (4:54)
• Why she started training CRNAs and NPs. (6:21)
• What all does running a business entail and how much different is it from working as (9:58)
• How long does it take to start your own practice and will you make any money? (18:57)
• Why are CRNAs in a position to do great in this business? (21:53)
• She recommends advance practice providers to get the best training. (23:09)
• Why she calls aesthetics ‘happy medicine’ (35:38)

 

About our guest:  

https://aurapdx.com/ 

https://www.appaesthetics.com/ 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

When you look back over the history of nurse anesthesia, the most forgotten group of nurses might have been those that served the country during World War II. It took nearly a half-century to tell their story but thanks to Carolyn Nicholson the legacy of that group of incredible nurses is being carried on today. We’ll look back at the war and the role of nurse anesthetists by telling the story of Adeline Simonson, whose experience is very much like all the brave individuals serving on the front lines. 

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Why she got interested in this topic and what’s she learned about that time period. (3:45)
• How she discovered Adeline and what she learned about her going overseas. (5:02)
• The training they received before leaving. (8:39)
• What agents were they using at that time? (13:02)
• How they dealt with anesthesia shortages and improved upon them. (16:49)
• Details on the horrible conditions that nurses had to endure. (20:34)
• The boom in anesthesia that happened following the war. (27:15)
• Carolyn’s experience meeting Adeline’s family. (28:39)
• Carolyn’s final thoughts on the topic. (34:52)

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

CRNAs are self-starters who strive in individual settings, but we’re all much stronger and successful with the support of others. In our latest podcast episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with the Fab Four, a group of extraordinary women who have left an indelible mark on the CRNA community.

These trailblazers, innovators, and phenomenal individuals have not only shaped the profession but have also built a powerful support network that has been instrumental in their success. Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring discussion on leadership, mentorship, and the power of friendship.

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The memories each of us have about when we first met.
• How important these relationships and friendships are on a career.
• Finding a mentor to help you become a better leader in this profession.
• The advice each woman would give a young CRNA trying to find their path.

 

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

 

Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

 

Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate

 

Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Before a CRNA ever gets to the operating room to perform anesthesia, they need to be thoroughly prepared for what they might face. Having checklists to follow is great, but they’re only effective if the diagnosis is correct.

That’s why Jeremy and Sass believe in reviewing the principles related to crisis management so that you can make the correct diagnosis for every scenario you find yourself in. In this episode, we’re going to help you identify different shock states by reviewing differential diagnoses, the rationale for the treatment, and the mechanism of action of medications used for the treatment of the crisis. Then we’ll finish it off by providing a few test questions to better prepare you for upcoming exams.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• How we think of shock. (3:18)
• The case we’re facing on this episode. (4:35)
• The issues you’re facing. (7:52)
• What can you rule out at this point and what shock state does this seem to be? (11:50)
• Signs and symptoms associated with cardiac tamponade. (13:29)
• The mechanism of cardiac compressive shock. (17:44)
• Diagnosing cardiac tamponade. (19:36)
• What treatment should you use to manage this scenario? (19:36)
• A few test questions to prepare you. (24:44)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

CRNAs face stressful situations every day but that doesn’t always prepare them to deal with the obstacles that life can throw your way, especially when those events put a strain on your finances. Oftentimes, your relationship with a financial advisor might feel more like a therapy session during emotional times, and that’s ok. Let’s discuss some scenarios where it’s almost inevitable that a talk with your advisor seems like a counseling session.

 

Here are some of the scenarios we’ll discuss on this show:

• Going through a divorce. (5:55)
• When you face career difficulties. (12:20)
• If you’re facing medical problems. (16:48)
• When you’re not happy with the financial decisions your kids are making. (21:18)
• The loss of a spouse (24:45)

 

Learn more about financial planning: https://www.crnafinancialplanning.com/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

As we put the finishing touches on another year, we didn’t want to use this time looking backward. Instead, we want to zoom out and get a better idea of where healthcare is headed. Who better to discuss this than Scott Becker, who is the founder of Becker’s Healthcare and someone who has his finger on the pulse of the industry.

We’re loaded with a long list of questions and have plenty we want to discuss, but we’re going to focus most of the conversation on anesthesia and the shortage of providers that will be a big issue heading into the new year and beyond. Having an outsider's perspective of our profession is incredibly valuable and we think you’ll agree after listening to everything he has to say.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• How he started the business and how it’s evolved since the beginning. (4:02)
• The shortage of anesthesia providers will be one of the big issues in healthcare in 2023. (7:46)
• The future of CRNA salaries and whether pay increases are sustainable. (20:00)
• Could a reimbursement model based on acuity be a possibility? (30:24)
• Can rural hospitals survive in this current environment? (35:55)
• What will health insurance look like in the future and what are the main challenges? (42:41)
• What role does private equity play in the future of healthcare? (51:13)
• What bold move(s) can CRNAs or our associations take now to position ourselves as healthcare leaders? (55:48)

 

About our guest: https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/ 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

We’re shifting gears a bit in this episode by focusing on the examination side of anesthesia and hosting our first ever Q&A episode. Since students take a lot of tests in anesthesia school and CRNAs are prepping for the CPC examination, testing is a critical part of the profession.

As educators, Jeremy and Sass both write a lot of test questions so they’ll share their experience from that side of the test-taking process. They'll also give you methods to analyze the questions in a way that can help you narrow down to the correct answer. Hey...it's Q&A day, so let us know what you think.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Which measure is an accurate indicator of preoxygenation? (3:04)
• Which effect explains the right work shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve? (6:15)
• Which factors cause a left work shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve? (10:14)
• Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction is inhibited by…? (12:58)
• What is the infrared wavelength measured by pulse oximetry? (17:20)
• Which inspiratory muscles are involved with supplemental inspiratory effort during times of respiratory distress? (23:09)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

Today we bring on our first DNAP candidate, Gerald Murphy, MS, CRNA, APRN, to share his Doctoral Scholarly Project and use this platform as the dissemination piece. He has focused his attention on the transition period for SRNAs moving into the workforce and beginning their career as CRNAs. This new independence can be overwhelming and a bit scary so improving that process and providing guidance for our newest professionals can be very valuable. 

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Gerald’s background and why he chose this topic. (6:18)
• What was his experience when he finished anesthesia school? (8:24)
• The problem he found when reviewing the literature. (11:05)
• What questions did he ask during his pilot survey and what did he want to gather from them? (16:11)
• Are our anesthesia programs doing a good job preparing SRNAs for this transition? (23:40)
• What can preceptors do to help the SRNAs? (27:51)
• Advice for SRNAs. (34:10)

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

It’s not something people openly talk about but feeling like you’re professionally inadequate happens to a lot of people. This is known as imposter phenomenon (IP) and it’s something that CRNAs deal with much more than you might realize. We’ve invited former CANA president Jeffrey Darna, PhD, DNP, CRNA, ACNP-BC onto the show to explain why high-achieving individuals have this self-perception of intellectual phoniness and what we can do to treat it.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• What imposter phenomenon actually means and how it has evolved over decades. (4:58)
• What triggers this within someone? (8:00)
• The attributes that you’ll find in someone who has this. (13:24)
• The different levels of intensity for imposter phenomenon. (14:46)
• The ways you can treat IP if you are dealing with it. (20:37)
• How prevalent is IP in the CRNA profession? (24:35)
• Hear about our own experiences dealing with IP. (28:56)

 

About our guest: https://canainc.org/about/cana-spotlight/jeffrey-r-darna/ 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Today Jeremy and Sass talk about the third type of distributive shock, septic shock. They review the need-to-know info for this shock state based on the updated Surviving Sepsis Guidelines released in 2021. They'll walk you through a crisis checklist that will help you identify and manage septic shock. So, buckle up...it's go time! 

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Case presentation for today’s patient (3:28)
• Pathophysiology of Sepsis and septic shock. (7:50)
• Signs and symptoms to look for. (12:31)
• Management for septic shock. (15:47)
• Things to think about if the patient comes to you in the operating room. (21:20)
• Differential diagnosis in this scenario. (23:41)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

The VA CRNA practice has been a topic of importance for a while because the VA hospital is the largest healthcare system in the country and currently employs more than 1,100 CRNAs. The worry is that if it fails, it will have a huge domino effect across the country. So what direction is the Association of Veterans Affairs Nurse Anesthetists (AVANA) headed? Executive Director Peter Kallio, DNP, CRNA, APNP, FAANA, joins the show today to talk about the state of the VA and what they’re focused on improving for CRNAs.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The current state of the VA. (5:49)
• The reason why so many VAs have one-to-one supervision. (7:56)
• Why are there so many different types of models? (14:46)
• Why VA CRNAs choose to work in that environment. (18:04)
• The benefits that working for the government provides CRNAs. (20:57)
• What can we do to improve the situation? (26:50)

 

About our guest: https://www.vacrna.com/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

With the increased distress and rationing of care that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, the topic of Moral Injury (MI) has started to garner much more attention in the world of healthcare. This repeated conflict between an individual’s morality and the management of care causes a deep emotional wound that often drives workers out of the profession altogether. Jerry Hogan, DNSc, CRNA wrote an article about this subject, so we’ve asked him to explain the effects of MI and how CRNAs can resolve this conflict.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• How moral injury was first identified and the impact it has on nurses. (4:47)
• Second victim vs Moral Injury (12:38)
• What to do if you start to feel this? (18:45)
• The effects of COVID on MI (21:50)
• Can you step away from a situation you aren’t morally comfortable with? (27:40)
• Resources are available for anyone dealing with MI. (34:39)

 

About our guest: https://pc.fsu.edu/person/gerard-hogan-dnsc-crna  

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

It hasn’t been the easiest year for a lot of people, but we know there’s still plenty to be grateful for as we approach another Thanksgiving. Specifically, we wanted to shine the light on the AANA and everything they do for our profession each year. New AANA President Angela Mund, DNP, CRNA is a friend of the show and someone we appreciate quite a bit so we wanted to spend some time with her on this holiday to talk about everything she’s hoping to accomplish over the next year.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• What the AANA means to nurse anesthetists. (5:45)
• What’s on Angie’s agenda for the next year. (6:56)
• Angie’s vision for communication with the members. (11:52)
• What advocacy and wins look like in her mind. (20:52)
• The work the AANA is doing to increase membership. (23:50)
• What can members do to help the AANA board? (34:18)

 

Support the veterans: https://www.veteransneedcarenow.org/share-your-story/ 

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

In this episode, we’ll explore nurse anesthetists’ indispensable role in disaster response and mass casualty incidents (MCIs). Drawing from real-life examples, including the harrowing experiences during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, we’ll highlight the resilience, expertise, and dedication required from nurse anesthetists in times of crisis. We’ll also dive into the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) guidelines and the importance of preparedness, coordination, and innovative problem-solving in managing both clinical operations and emergencies.

 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The role CRNAs play during natural disasters.
• Communication and coordination is critical during these catastrophic events.
• The protocols in place at hospitals when hurricanes are coming.
• Lessons learned from recent disasters.

 

Visit us online and get show resources here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

 

Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

CRNAs and SRNAs/RRNAs have asked us to give them the essential information needed to manage different OR cases. Episodes they can listen to while on their commute, on a run, or just relaxing at home with their headphones. Today we’re going to review the Anesthesia Management for a Pheochromocytoma. This is the second episode in our endocrine surgical procedures series, so get ready for this power-packed episode full of "need to know" info you can use in the OR and stuff you might even find on exams. 

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• The pathology of a Pheochromocytoma. (3:40)
• The signs and symptoms you’ll find. (5:16)
• What if it goes undiagnosed? (6:37)
• How to differentiate this from other interoperative problem. (7:25)
• Treating known diagnosed Pheochromocytoma. (10:52)
• What will you be watching for as you monitor patient? (15:58)
• Intraoperative hemodynamic goals. (19:29)
• Let’s work through a PACU scenario. (24:45)

 

About our hosts: https://www.kpsan.org/school/people/

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

When Sharon visited the NCANA meeting in Wilmington, she sat through a lecture full of people with children and grandchildren that were panicked listening to the speaker. It was eye-opening and something we wanted to bring awareness to because it can be avoided.  The person speaking that day was Emily Funk, DNP, CRNA and we asked her to come on to talk to us about the danger of button batteries and the harm they can cause almost immediately when ingested.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• How she became aware of button battery ingestion and the heartbreaking story of a young girl that passed away. (6:06)
• What you should do if a kid swallows a battery. (10:54)
• What do anesthetists need to know about care. (14:02)
• Warnings and protections that are currently in place. (18:09)
• How to be more aware of what’s in the home. (20:00)
• What care is needed after the battery is removed? (26:11)

 

About our guest: https://nursing.duke.edu/directories/emily.funk

 

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

 

CRNAs continue to be in high demand so finding a job isn’t always the challenge, but how do you go about identifying and landing the right job? Thomas Davis, DNAP, MAE, CRNA is an Air Force-trained CRNA who learned a lot about leadership during his time in the military and has used that to start ProSynEx Authentic Leadership. Today we’ll dive into the hiring process and share tips for any CRNA exploring new employment so that you have the best chance at landing that perfect job.

 

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• What the Gallup Q12 survey has found about employment needs. (8:35)
• How to go about creating a list of what you’re looking for. (12:37)
• Why emotional intelligence becoming more and more important on both sides. (14:54)
• The dangers of social media for future employment. (23:59)
• What to put on your cover letter. (29:11)
• Preparing for the questions you might be asked during an interview. (36:11)

 

Learn more about the Gallup Q12 Engagement Survey: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/356063/gallup-q12-employee-engagement-survey.aspx 

About our guest: https://prosynex.com/about/

Visit us online: http://beyondthemaskpodcast.com 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf