About 200 nurses gathered at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing the weekend of June 8 for an event encouraging diversity in the field of nurse anesthesia.
Pitt’s program is ranked No. 2 in the country by U.S. News and World Report and was one of four schools across the country to host the event, run by the Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia Mentorship Program.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia and other medications. CRNAs must have a doctorate degree focusing on anesthesia, complete extensive clinical training and pass a certification exam.
It is a highly competitive and well-compensated field. About 88% of people in the field are white, and the event was intended to expand participation from underrepresented groups.
From ultrasounds to airway management techniques, participants interested in applying to nurse anesthesia programs had a unique opportunity to gain practical skills and confidence in handling various airway scenarios, ensuring readiness for real-world clinical settings. Workshops were conducted in the School of Nursing’s simulation lab as well as WISER (Winter Institute for Simulation, Education and Research). KDKA-TV ran a segment on the event.
More information about the nurse anesthesia program is available at Nurse Anesthesia | School of Nursing | University of Pittsburgh.
