Message for CRNAs and Student Nurse Anesthetists
We strongly recommend that each and every one of you view this highly regarded complete collection of programs on substance abuse disorders in anesthesia. (Pictured left to right: Peer Assistance Advisors' Chair Art Zwerling, CRNA, DNP, DAAPM; AANA Past President and Former Chair, Wellness Committee, Terry Wicks, CRNA, MSN.)
The untimely death of
AANA Past President Jan Stewart, more than any other single event, awakened the nurse anesthesia profession to the harsh reality that nurse anesthetists are at an enormous risk for experiencing chemical dependency. The programs within the
Wearing Masks series, produced over a 13 year period, were conceived and produced with the intention of reducing the frequency and devastating effects of this tragic disease. We believe that by educating aspiring nurse anesthetists, practicing clinicians and educators, and (perhaps most importantly) family members that lives can be saved and careers can be preserved (see above link to view the
About Wellness video message from Jan Stewart's daughter).
For this effort to be successful everyone must understand the antecedents, pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of chemical dependency. It is our hope and belief that, by viewing these striking vignettes, you and your family will take the first important steps towards reducing your risk of chemical dependency and towards a long and rewarding career in the nurse anesthesia profession.
The AANA strongly endorses Wearing Masks as essential viewing:
- At nurse anesthesia state association meetings
- In nurse anesthesia educational program classrooms
- During in-services for anesthesia departments of hospitals and other healthcare facilities
- By all individuals who provide anesthesia to patients and assistance to healthcare practitioners
- By family members and loved ones of anesthesia providers