Implementation of an orientation program for student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) and their support persons: A program evaluation

Abstract

Research has shown that the support persons of graduate students may experience stress just as their students experience stress. This effect is known as the crossover effect. Prior surveys from support persons of Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs) have demonstrated a need for preventative interventions in order to mitigate stress. An orientation seminar was developed and implemented for the primary support persons of SRNAs and the SRNAs. The orientation seminar was held at a small Midwestern Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program. All primary support persons were invited to complete a survey about stress 5 months after the orientation seminar. The survey was completed regardless of attendance. Overall, the support persons who attended the orientation seminar reported it as beneficial. First year, second year and third year SRNAs were surveyed regarding their stress levels, with results consistent with previous years’ surveys.