Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs

In 2017, a fatal medication error shocked the medical world, and its aftermath has left the nursing community forever changed. In this gripping episode, Jeremy and Sharon sit down with RaDonda Vaught, the nurse who was found guilty of two felony charges in 2022. She shares the story of how a routine shift, a medication override, and a system-wide communication failure led to a tragedy — and eventually, criminal prosecution. This is more than a case study in medical error. It’s a conversation about system design, transparency, accountability, and what it means to truly support healthcare professionals in moments of crisis. Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode: ⚖️ Criminal charges after a medical error — what happened and why 💊 How an override mistake revealed system-wide vulnerabilities 🧠 The emotional toll on nurses and the danger of silence 📉 The legal, ethical, and professional ripple effects 🛑 Why every healthcare provider needs legal protection in an investigation   Learn more about the case: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9724400/   Will you be among the Congress attendees tackling some of today's most urgent challenges in nurse anesthesiology? Join nurse innovator and Hackathon host Rebecca Love, RN, MSN, FIEL, along with former AANA president and Beyond the Mask podcast host Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN, and 14 expert CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist mentors for an exclusive opportunity to collaborate, compete, and create real-world solutions. This team-based, high-energy event is free to attend — but space is limited. Only 112 seats are available. Save your seat at aana.com/hackathon.   Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA): 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 

Dexmedetomidine — or “Dex” — has become one of the most intriguing and versatile drugs in the anesthesia world. In this episode of Anesthesia Alchemy with hosts Lynn Macksey, MSN, CRNA and Garry Brydges, PhD, DNP, MBA, CRNA, ACNP-BC, FAAN dive deep into the pharmacology, clinical application, and emerging research surrounding this alpha-2 agonist. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🧠 CNS receptor action and sedative pathways 💉 IV, buccal, spinal, and local delivery methods 🫁 Organ protection and anti-inflammatory effects 🛏️ Potential future use as a sleep aid 🧬 Promising research on cancer immunity and stress modulation   Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA): 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

In this special crossover episode of Beyond the Mask, we sit down with two hosts from the Grade 1 View, a new podcast hosted by nurse anesthesia residents for nurse anesthesia residents. Kevin Chem and Charity Garno join Sharon and Tracy Castleman, DNP, CRNA, APN-A, FAANA to reflect on mentorship, the student experience, and the future of the CRNA profession. Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode: 🎓 The student experience and navigating clinicals with confidence 🧑‍🏫 Why mentorship and grace are essential in training 🎧 Favorite moments from Grade One View podcast 🌍 The future of CRNA practice and international expansion 🤝 How AANA engagement builds legacy and leadership   Learn about Grade 1 View: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/  Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA): 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

What if studying for boards could actually be fun and sustainable? In this episode of Grade 1 View, Kevin Chem sits down with Dr. Joshua Olson DNP, CRNA, CRNA educator, and co-creator of the Olivate app, to talk about the realities of CRNA education, board exam burnout, and what it means to walk alongside students instead of just lecturing from the front of the room. From the emotional toll of imposter syndrome to the power of spaced repetition, Dr. Olson offers both empathy and innovation, sharing why he’s passionate about changing how CRNAs prepare, teach, and stay mentally healthy. Whether you're a student wondering if you're good enough (you are) or a seasoned CRNA curious about the future of education, this episode delivers encouragement, fresh perspective, and practical tools for learning that lasts.   Check out Ollivate - Game Your Brain - https://www.ollivate.com Web Application - https://app.ollivate.com/ Download for iOS Devices - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ollivate/id6740267864   More of what we discuss in this episode: 📚 Why CRNA students feel “beat down” — and how educators can build them back up 🧠 How memory science and spaced repetition inspired Olivate 📉 Burnout, board anxiety, and the three biggest challenges students face 📱 The “Duolingo for CRNAs” and why it’s more than a quiz app 👥 Why mentorship, grace, and belief matter more than ever in clinical education   Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/ Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/  Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

What does leadership look like in a profession that never stands still? In this episode, we’re excited to welcome back Bill Bruce, CEO of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, to talk about the challenges and opportunities for CRNAs in 2025. Since ​stepping ​into ​his role, ​Bill ​has ​brought ​a ​fresh ​perspective ​and ​a ​deep ​commitment ​to ​advancing ​the ​role ​of ​CRNAs ​across ​the ​healthcare ​landscape. Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode: 🧑‍⚕️ What Bill Bruce learned from shadowing CRNAs in practice 🏛️ Honoring past presidents and staff contributions to AANA 🌍 Expanding CRNA influence on the global healthcare stage 💡 Innovation updates from Room 8 and new partnerships ❤️ The emotional impact of CRNA care and why it matters

It’s election season for the AANA, and that means it’s time to hear directly from the candidates. In this special edition of Beyond the Mask, we continue the annual tradition of giving CRNAs across the country an opportunity to listen to the voices, values, and visions of those running for national office. You’ll hear from all 10 candidates for Director, both Treasurer candidates, and the individuals running for Vice President and President-Elect. Each message has been lightly edited for clarity and time, but the core message is unchanged: these are the professionals who want to help shape the future of nurse anesthesiology. Whether you’re undecided or just want to hear where your peers stand on leadership, advocacy, education, and innovation, this episode will help you make an informed decision before casting your vote. Voting is open now through May 27. Don’t miss your chance to be heard. Login into AANA.com and vote here: https://www.aana.com/membership/elections-and-governance/governance/election-center/candidates/   Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA): 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

What happens when SRNAs take their training to the global stage? Today, Charity welcomes Natalie, Cailtyn, and Mamawa to discuss their recent life-changing medical service trips to Mauritania and Honduras. These future CRNAs share their experiences providing anesthesia in resource-limited settings, highlighting the unique challenges and rewarding moments they encountered along the way. Thanks to these three for sharing their experience! Natalie Janes, 3rd year SRNA, Wayne State University – Service Trip to Honduras Caitlyn Pichette, 3rd year SRNA, Wayne State University – Service Trip to Honduras Mamawa Hollendyke, 3rd year SRNA, York College (graduating in a week!) – Service Trip to Mauritania (Africa) Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🌍 Stories from SRNAs working in Honduras and Mauritania 💉 Delivering anesthesia without standard equipment ⚡ When the power goes out mid-surgery…twice 🧠 Cultural insights and creative problem-solving in global ORs ❤️ Why these trips changed their perspective on care and humanity   Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/ Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/  Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

Placenta accreta is one of the most dangerous and rapidly growing challenges in obstetrics, and CRNAs are often on the front lines when things go wrong. This week we’re joined by OB anesthesia specialists Kira Bruck, CRNA and Kelsey Getzloff, DNP, CRNA to share the latest research, discuss the reasons behind the increase in cases, and outline essential anesthesia strategies for managing high-risk deliveries. Coordination, communication, and preparation saves lives and this episode will help inform CRNAs about what’s most important to know about accreta cases. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🧠 Understanding the placenta accreta spectrum: accreta, increta, percreta ⚠️ Why diagnosis is missed in 50% of cases and what that means for CRNAs 💉 Anesthesia strategies for known vs. unknown accreta cases 💬 Real-world insights from a high-volume OB anesthesia team 🔄 How CRNAs can advocate for transfers to higher levels of care   Catch Sharon Live at the 53rd Annual Refresher Course for Nurse Anesthetists! Join Sharon this November 14–16, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel in Walt Disney World Village, Florida, for the Frank Moya Continuing Education Program’s annual conference. She’ll be delivering four insightful talks as part of the guest faculty lineup. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and recharge—with some Disney magic on the side!  Click here for more details and to register   Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA): 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

Today, we’re excited to bring back Emily Funk, DNP, CRNA to talk about tranexamic acid, or TXA—a drug making waves for its ability to control bleeding and improve surgical outcomes. Originally developed decades ago, TXA has gained new momentum due to its remarkable ability to control bleeding and improve surgical outcomes. Join us as we explore the fascinating story behind TXA’s discovery, its evolving applications, and the impact it’s having on patient safety and recovery. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💉 The fascinating origin story of tranexamic acid 🧠 TXA’s evolving uses in anesthesia, trauma, OB, and pediatrics 🚀 Why researchers are studying TXA for space exploration 🧪 How TXA helps reduce bleeding — explained through paper cuts and scabs 👩‍🔬 Honoring the pioneering woman who helped develop TXA   Catch Sharon Live at the 53rd Annual Refresher Course for Nurse Anesthetists! Join Sharon this November 14–16, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel in Walt Disney World Village, Florida, for the Frank Moya Continuing Education Program’s annual conference. She’ll be delivering four insightful talks as part of the guest faculty lineup. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and recharge—with some Disney magic on the side!  Click here for more details and to register   About our guest: https://nursing.duke.edu/directories/emily.funk Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099 Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA): 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

What does it really mean to advocate for your profession, and why does it matter before you even graduate? In this episode of Grade 1 View, hosts Kevin and Larry sit down with AANA lead lobbyists Matt Thackston and Kristina Weger to provide a look into the world of CRNA advocacy. From behind-the-scenes insights on Capitol Hill to tips for making your voice count at Mid-Year Assembly, they share eye-opening stories, practical advice, and real talk about how change happens in healthcare policy. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🏛️ What CRNA advocacy looks like at the federal and state level 🗣️ How your story—not just stats—moves legislators to act 🧠 Common myths policymakers believe about CRNAs (and how to fix them) 📨 Why following up after Mid-Year is just as important as showing up 🔄 How to engage 365 days a year—not just during conferences   Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-thackston/ Connect with Kristina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-weger-12365a160/    Learn more about the Mid-Year Assembly: https://www.aana.com/premier-event/mid-year-assembly/  Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/ Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/  Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246