Personal Statement

Starting my career as a registered nurse in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Methodist Dallas Medical Center during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic was a defining experience that shaped my commitment to patient care. This time challenged my endurance but also presented a perspective where one has to foster critical thinking and problem-solving in a short time. Employment at an organization where speed and accuracy were the key determinants of success or failure taught me the value of adequate teamwork and practice of evidence-based practice. These helped me develop much respect for CRNAs’ accuracy and compassion in the operating theaters. Their performance with anesthesia and patient safety prompted me to consider this top-level position that combines science and caregiving.

My career as an ICU nurse has been a continuous learning journey. In my time at Methodist Dallas and subsequent roles at Cedar Sinai and White Rock Medical Center, I have rendered care to a variety of critically ill patients, from those with traumatic injuries to those with cardiovascular conditions. I am assigned to variable acute surgical and medical cases and have to carefully observe and control various and often complicated hemodynamic conditions, using vasopressors, and engaged in the care of patients on advanced life support. I have developed a profound knowledge of the physiologic processes related to severe illness and the medications needed, particularly within the acute care environment. I have also been able to practice leadership skills while working as a relief charge nurse in the ICU as well as being a preceptor to new ICU nurses with rotations. Notably, this role has made it easy for me to teach the new nurses and even direct them when there is an indication of high stress while handling patients. These leadership experiences have further emphasized my commitment to patient safety, communication, and quick thinking—all vital attributes in a CRNA role.

Beyond my clinical experience, I have actively sought to deepen my understanding of anesthesia through shadowing opportunities with CRNAs and attending specialized professional development sessions. These experiences have reinforced my passion for ensuring patient safety during surgery and have given me a glimpse into the intricate balance CRNAs maintain between managing anesthesia and providing patient-centered care. Observing the scientific precision and calm under pressure required to balance sedation, pain management, and vital functions, I have further understood the complexity and challenge of the CRNA role. The scientific precision of this work, paired with its direct impact on patient outcomes, has strengthened my resolve to pursue this role.

Looking ahead, I am excited to take the next step in my career by joining a Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia program. It has been my experience in my professional career to provide quality patient care, have an endless love for learning, and aim to achieve better patient care. Therefore, I believe my understanding of clinical and leadership experiences is adequate to boost me for this advanced, practical role in anesthesia science. I hope to make a positive impact as a CRNA by carrying out safe, patient, and evidence-based care for all the patients I will encounter.

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1. Personal essay in which the applicant demonstrates their professional development as a registered nurse in critical care and how they have prepared for an advanced practice role as a nurse anesthetist

Beginning my career as a registered nurse during a worldwide pandemic was a challenging and very rewarding experience. I had the privilege of working in the Intensive Care Unit at a Level One Trauma Center. It was here, while caring for patients with life-threatening emergencies, that I learned the skill of critical thinking. While caring for patients undergoing major surgical procedures, I learned that Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists play a vital role in ensuring successful surgeries and providing safe, high-quality, patient-centered care. With this newfound information, I developed a profound admiration and respect for CRNAs. The tactful manner of administering anesthetics and managing pain all while ensuing patient safety is a fascinating scientific skill I hope to acquire and deepen my knowledge on.  As my desire to advance my professional development increased, my aspiration to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist has been driven by the wish to improve patient care and positively impact the field of advanced practice nursing.

My career as an ICU nurse has been fundamental in my preparation for an advanced practice nursing role as a CRNA. While providing patient care to critically ill patients, I’ve developed a deep understanding of hemodynamics, pharmacology, and the skills needed to care for patients on advanced life support. I’ve also been privileged with precepting over ten nurses to care for ICU patients, and I have also taken on the role as a relief charge nurse. Additionally, as my desire to deepen my understanding of anesthesia, I have shadowed two CRNA. I have also attended two information sessions