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Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs — Health
Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs

A podcast for the CRNA industry. Discussing the important issues that happen both in, and beyond, the operating room. With Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN and Jeremy Stanley, EA, CFP, AIF. Innovations & opportunities for CRNAs & APRNs. Visit our website for more great information https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ and to learn how you can get CE Credit as a CRNA just by listening to the podcast. Don’t miss our special series on CRNA History, CRNA Personal Finance & Retirement, Political Conversations, CRNA Career Issues, and our leadership series called Courage To Lead. Check out new episodes of Beyond The Mask every week with distinguished guests from the CRNA community… #anesthesiology #rn #surgery #healthcare #nurseanesthesiologist #crnaschool #nursing #srnalife #nurselife #nursingstudent #ornurse #nurseanesthesia #crnalife #nursepractitioner #medschool #anesthesialife #scrublife #icunurse #hospital #futurecrna #medical #crna #nurse #anesthesia #srna #nurseanesthetist #nurses #surgical #operatingtheatre #medicalstudent #operatingroomnurse #studentnurse #diversitycrna #ccrn #nursepractitioner #APRN #APRNchat #NPchat #midwife #NP

Copyright: © Copyright 2018 All rights reserved.

Latest Episodes:

Stopping the Bleed: The Power of TXA in Anesthesia May 01, 2025

Show notes

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

Grade 1 View – Ep. 11 – Lead AANA Lobbyists Talk CRNA Advocacy Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

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

Engaging the AANA & Building the Future with New CRNA Grads Apr 24, 2025

Show notes

Today, we're focusing on the next generation of CRNAs and the importance of early engagement with the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology and the AANA Foundation. As new grads step into their careers, they have a unique opportunity to connect, contribute and grow within the profession. Recent grad Jake Bonnema, DNP, APRN-CRNA joins us to discuss why it’s so important to engage and how CRNAs can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of nurse anesthesia.

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

🗳️ What CRNA PACs actually do—and why they matter

🤝 How mentorship sparked Jake’s path into advocacy

💬 Making the ask: peer-to-peer power in growing PAC support

🎓 Why new grads should attend Mid-Year Assembly (and leave inspired)

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

Unlocking Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorders: From Risk to Resilience Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever wondered about the potential impact of surgery and anesthesia on cognitive function? Today’s show will discuss the complexities of Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorders (PND), a term encompassing conditions like postoperative delirium (POD), postoperative cognitive decline (POCD), and delayed neurocognitive recovery (DNR).

Through insightful discussions rooted in the latest research, we aim to shed light on:

The prevalence and impact of PND, drawing from studies highlighting its occurrence after various surgical procedures.
Potential risk factors that may make individuals more susceptible to developing PND.
Innovative approaches for prevention and management, including the investigation of medications like dexmedetomidine and anesthetic techniques such as total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) with propofol, which some studies suggest may have neuroprotective properties.
The intricate underlying mechanisms of PND, exploring the roles of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and even insulin signaling in the central nervous system.
The use of monitoring techniques like electroencephalography (EEG) to better understand and potentially mitigate neurocognitive complications.
The importance of early identification and comprehensive care for individuals experiencing PND.

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

Grade 1 View – Ep. 10 – Green Anesthesia Techniques for Earth Day Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

Happy Earth Day! In this special episode of Grade 1 View, Kevin and Olivia explore how anesthesia providers can make a real impact on the environment, one case at a time. As healthcare professionals, CRNAs play a significant role in the healthcare sector, which is responsible for nearly 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. This episode emphasizes the importance of being environmentally conscious in our practices, especially when it comes to anesthesia.

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

🌎 How volatile anesthetics contribute to climate change

💉 Three green anesthesia techniques you can implement today

🔬 Real data comparing low flow, TIVA, and regional approaches

🧪 The truth about compound A, oxygen consumption, and CO₂ absorbers

📉 How education and clinical tools can drive sustainable practice

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

Gastric Point-of-Care Ultrasound (PoCUS): A Preoperative Assessment Tool Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

How can a quick bedside ultrasound transform patient safety in anesthesia? Today, Sharon and guest co-host Carole Doyscher, CRNA, BSN, MS, APRN explore the growing role of gastric point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS), a tool helping anesthesia providers assess stomach contents in real time.

Joined by Rachel Edgerton, DNAP, MSNA, CRNA, APRN, CHSE and three doctoral students from St. Mary’s University - Molly O’Neill, BSN, RN, Hannah Peine, BSN, RN, CCRN, CMC, Alyssa Klein, BSN, RN - the episode dives into their groundbreaking DNP project educating CRNAs on this skill.

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

🩻 How gastric PoCUS helps assess aspiration risk

💉 GLP-1 medications and their impact on NPO status

📈 DNP students’ national education project and outcomes

⚠️ Why current NPO guidelines are no longer enough

💬 Real-world barriers and solutions to implementing PoCUS in practice

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

Catch Sharon Live at the 53rd Annual Refresher Course for Nurse Anesthetists: https://www.currentreviews.com/continuing+education+seminars/53rd+annual+refresher+course+for+nurse+anesthetists/

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

Grade 1 View – Ep. 9 – Breaking the Silence on Substance Use Struggles Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Grade 1 View, we sat down with two incredibly brave and inspiring guests, Louisa Martin, PhD, CRNA and Rigo Garcia, MSN, MBA, CRNA, who opened up about their personal battles with substance use disorder. They didn’t hold anything back. From near rock bottom to recovery, from fear and shame to leadership and advocacy, their stories are raw, real, and deeply relevant to our lives as students and future CRNAs.

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

🧠 Why high achievers and CRNAs are especially at risk for substance use

📖 Personal stories of addiction, recovery, and redemption from Louisa and Rigo

📞 What to know about AANA's 24/7 confidential helpline

🚫 Breaking the stigma: why it’s okay not to be okay

❤️ How to help a classmate or colleague in crisis

If you or someone you know need support, please utilize these resources:

https://parkdalecenter.com

24 Hour Hotline: 888-895-2471

Partnership with AANA: https://parkdalecenter.com/about-us/aana-partnership/

Wellness Resources from AANA: https://www.aana.com/membership/here-for-you/health-and-wellness/

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

Navigating Late Career CRNA Practice & Patient Safety with Judy Thompson Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

As more CRNAs continue practicing well into their 60s and 70s, it raises a critical and complex question: how do we balance respect for experience with the need to protect patient safety? As healthcare evolves, so does the understanding of how aging affects performance in high stakes environments like the operating room. Today we’re going to have an open and honest conversation with longtime educator and CRNA Judy Thompson about cognitive health testing protocols and the path forward for those at the peak of their careers.

With over 35 years of leadership in nurse anesthesia education, Judy brings both professional insight and personal experience to the discussion. We’ll tackle everything from mandatory retirement age debates, discrimination concerns, and the value (and pitfalls) of cognitive testing, to what healthcare systems—and CRNAs themselves—can do to navigate this sensitive issue fairly.

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

🧠 Cognitive testing in late-career CRNAs: fairness or discrimination?
🏥 Patient safety vs. provider autonomy—how do we find the balance?
📉 Aging impacts everyone differently; there’s no one-size-fits-all solution
🛠️ Simulation and early baselines could be part of a better approach
👩‍⚕️ Aging CRNAs bring wisdom—but also face scrutiny and bias

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

Catch Sharon Live at the 53rd Annual Refresher Course for Nurse Anesthetists: https://www.currentreviews.com/continuing+education+seminars/53rd+annual+refresher+course+for+nurse+anesthetists/

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

Who Turned Up the Heat? Serotonin Syndrome, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, and Malignant Hyperpyrexia Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

Today we’re going to break down three life-threatening syndromes that every CRNA, anesthesia provider, and healthcare professional should know: Serotonin Syndrome, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), and Malignant Hyperthermia (MH).

Though these conditions are rare, their symptoms often overlap—making quick, accurate diagnosis and intervention critical. Garry and Terry take a deep dive into the causes, symptoms, physiology, and treatment protocols for each condition, while also sprinkling in their signature humor and real-world insights.

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

🧠 Understanding the overlap and differences between serotonin syndrome, NMS, and MH

💊 Medication triggers to watch out for—from SSRIs to succinylcholine

🚨 Emergency symptoms that demand immediate action

🧬 The role of genetics and pharmacology in MH

👨‍⚕️ Real-world prevention and treatment strategies for anesthesia providers

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

Mind Over Memory: Unpacking Postoperative Cognitive Disorders with Dr. Christine Detwiler Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

Postoperative cognitive disorders (POCD) are often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and underestimated, but they can dramatically affect a patient’s recovery and long-term quality of life. We’ve invited Dr. Christine Detwiler to join us so we can better understand the science behind POCD, the risk factors, and the strategies anesthesia providers are using to protect brain health.

Along with guest co-host Dana Pederson, CRNA, we dive into this topic with Christine while it’s still very fresh on her mind. She shares the insights she uncovered during her doctoral research, including risk factors, early signs to watch for, and why anesthesia providers play a bigger role in brain health than they might think.

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

🧠 POCD affects more patients than we realize—especially older adults

🔍 Post-op delirium and cognitive dysfunction are different but often overlap

📉 Less is more: lighter sedation may reduce cognitive complications

🩺 Preoperative assessment is key, even with limited time

🗣️ Familiarity, reorientation, and empathy matter in recovery

About our guest:

Dr. Detwiler holds great passion for her profession and practice as a CRNA. She has worked with a variety of patient populations as well as served on multiple international medical missions. Dr. Detwiler earned her DNP after ten years as a CRNA and now enjoys supporting current DNP students in their academic journeys. She strives to care for her patients with compassion and the highest standard of care. Dr. Detwiler is a strong advocate for the CRNA profession by her example and drive for growth. Outside of anesthesia, Dr. Detwiler spends as much time with her middle-school-aged daughter as she will allow, gets outside in the sun with her boyfriend to train for the next race, and takes clarinet lessons to keep her brain stimulated with new challenges.

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

Catch Sharon Live at the 53rd Annual Refresher Course for Nurse Anesthetists: https://www.currentreviews.com/continuing+education+seminars/53rd+annual+refresher+course+for+nurse+anesthetists/

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

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