NURSE ANESTHESIA

Graduated in 2020
CRNA, Ascension Macomb

Q: Why did you choose Wayne State University?

A: I chose Wayne State University because of its prestigious reputation in the anesthesia community. It was known to be a challenging and rigorous program with an intense curriculum, and some of the best trained CRNAs. As a CRNA you hold “life” in your hands, so I knew if I attended Wayne that I would come out strong, well-prepared and a great practitioner that could safely manage some of the sickest patients.

Q: What inspired you to pursue Nurse Anesthesia?

A: I loved being a critical care nurse, but I felt I wanted to do more, and also wanted to have the opportunity for growth. When looking at advanced practice professions I realized as a CRNA I hold onto my nursing title that I am so proud of, yet I have the autonomy to do more. I would have the ability to focus on one patient at a time. As a CRNA I am always learning and challenged. I have the ability to manage my patient’s pain and hemodynamics using my own clinical judgement, and advocate for my patient at a level that I would have never been able to previously. Anesthesia is more than just being proficient with practical skills such as line insertions or blocks or intubating, but it’s being able to provide security and trust in a patient in a small period of time before they go to surgery. It is important to provide comfort and reassurance because these patients and families trust you. It’s truly an honor.

Q: Who was your most memorable Professor?

A: Valdor Haglund. His enthusiasm and passion when explaining airway management and EKG is just amazing.  He also shared so many memorable stories which made class really interesting.

Q: What was your most challenging class?

A: EKG was the most challenging class but ultimately became my favorite class. I am grateful for Professor Haglund because his stories and analogies and simplicity of explanations really helped me.

Q: Share some reflections about your time at Wayne State:

A: I still feel so proud and accomplished to have had the opportunity to interview, not to mention, to be accepted into this program!!! Dr. Worth and Mary Walczyk were so supportive in my growth. I believe having a program with supportive faculty and directors is so important. The program was emotionally, mentally and physically demanding but I would not trade it for the world!

Q: Share a career highlight or summary:

A: I work at Ascension Macomb, and I can honestly say I love my career and I love precepting students.

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WSU Applebaum’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program is led by exceptional faculty and clinical instructors dedicated to the profession and the teaching of students using state-of-the-art teaching facility and anesthesia classrooms. The DNAP degree is 36 months, designed to offer registered nurses an advanced education and full scope of practice as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Graduates will also meet the requirements for the National Certification Examination. Learn more about the application process and make plans to attend a college information meeting, held for prospective students at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels – from undergraduates to veteran faculty members – translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.