CRNA Inspiration in the Operating Room Personal Statement

In Nursing School, I did a Clinical Rotation in the Operating Room with CRNAs working all around me, and I watched them as closely as possible. This was the beginning of my dedication to the goal of becoming a CRNA myself. I crave the excitement of becoming a CRNA. No day is ever the same because each patient and procedure is unique. I love the way that CRNAs assess, monitor, and supervise patient care before, during, and after surgery. The variety of anesthesia subspecialties, especially neuro-anesthesia, obstetrics, and chronic pain management, makes it a very compelling and diversified career choice. I find the variety of advanced procedures performed by CRNAs to be especially attractive, including intubation, invasive line placement, nerve blocks, epidurals, and spinals,  

The CRNA School Personal Statement

An anesthesia provider possesses the knowledge and abilities to titrate complex medications including sedatives, analgesics, and paralytics to achieve a desired anesthetic effect. I see the anesthesia machine as of utmost brilliance, able to provide anesthetic gases, ventilation, oxygenation, and continuous monitoring all at once. Anesthesia providers are experts at monitoring patients undergoing complex surgeries and procedures. They can accurately assess anesthetic depth by utilizing unique approaches such as minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), BI spectral index monitoring (BIS), and peripheral nerve stimulators (Train of 4). This is where I see my calling, becoming an expert at providing support for breathing and circulation, frequently managing emergency situations, including respiratory arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. 

Of my many shadowing experiences throughout my medical journey, one that stands out distinctly in my memory was the opportunity to shadow a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) during a robotic laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure. This experience provided me with invaluable insights into the role of anesthesia in surgical settings and the intricate details involved in patient care. Prior to the surgical procedure, we began by meeting with the patient in a pre-operative area where the CRNA conducted a thorough history and physical examination. This step was critical, as it allowed for the identification of any potential risks or complications that could arise during anesthesia. The CRNA took the time to explain the anesthesia process to the patient, ensuring they understood what to expect. This included discussing the types of anesthesia that would be used, the importance of monitoring throughout the procedure, and addressing any concerns the patient had. Obtaining informed consent for anesthesia was an essential part of this process, as it underscored the ethical responsibility of healthcare providers to ensure that patients are fully aware of the risks and benefits associated with their care.

Once the consent was obtained, the patient was transported to the Operating Room, where the environment was bustling with activity yet maintained an air of professionalism and focus. In the OR, we began the preparations necessary for the procedure. The CRNA expertly connected the patient to a variety of monitoring systems that would track vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and other critical parameters throughout the surgery. This monitoring is crucial, as it provides real-time data that can indicate any changes in the patient’s condition during the operation.

Next, we proceeded to establish intravenous (IV) access, which is a vital step in ensuring that the patient could receive medications and fluids as needed. The CRNA demonstrated enormous skill and precision while placing the IV, explaining the importance of selecting an appropriate site and ensuring that the access was secure and functional. After establishing the IV, we prepared all the necessary medications that would be administered during the procedure, including anesthetics and other supportive drugs. The CRNA took meticulous care in double-checking dosages and ensuring that all medications were correctly labeled and ready for use.

Throughout this process, the CRNA maintained an open line of communication with the patient, answering any remaining questions they had and reassuring them about the procedure. This aspect of care is often overlooked but is vital in helping to alleviate any anxiety the patient may feel before undergoing surgery. The CRNA’s ability to foster a trusting relationship with the patient was evident and highlighted the importance of empathy and clear communication in the medical field.

Personal Statement for CRNA School Samples

As the surgery commenced, I observed the CRNA’s vigilance and expertise in managing the anesthesia throughout the procedure. It was fascinating to see how they adjusted medication dosages in response to the patient’s vital signs and the surgical team’s needs. The entire experience was not only educational but also a profound reminder of the critical role that anesthesia providers play in ensuring patient safety and comfort during surgical interventions. This shadowing experience with the CRNA during the robotic laparoscopic cholecystectomy was truly memorable and has influenced my understanding of perioperative care and the importance of teamwork in the surgical setting. The patient stated he was nervous, so an anxiolytic, Midazolam, was provided. We then proceeded with induction by pre-oxygenating the patient and administering Lidocaine, Fentanyl, Propofol and Rocuronium. Immediately after, the patient was intubated, and mechanical ventilation began. Throughout the maintenance phase, we provided gas anesthesia through the ventilator circuit in the form of Sevoflurane. The case was prolonged due to a complex gallbladder anatomy, so the patient was re-dosed Propofol, Fentanyl, and Rocuronium at appropriate intervals. At one point in the case, the patient became slightly hypotensive, so we provided Phenylephrine IV Push and his blood pressure improved.

Towards the end of the case, we planned our emergence. Slowly down-titrating Sevoflurane and preparing any necessary medications that would speed up and enhance recovery.  The patient received Sugam Madex and Zofran in anticipation of emergence. The mode of Mechanical Ventilation was switched to a weaning mode (CPAP). The patient began spontaneously breathing and following commands and was soon extubated and placed on a nasal cannula. The patient was then transported to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and woke up without any complications. 

CRNA Inspiration in the Operating Room Personal Statement