Each year, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) Annual Congress brings together nurse anesthetists from around the U.S. and helps them renew their passion for the profession. 

Nine students and two faculty from Missouri State University’s School of Anesthesia attended the 2023 congress. It took place Aug. 18-22. 

Nurse anesthesiology’s largest educational event offers students and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) learning and networking opportunities. Two thousand five hundred students from 120 schools all over the country attended the congress in Seattle, Washington.

“As a first-year CRNA student, it was an amazing experience,” Katie Wills said. “It really got me pumped for my future career!”  

Connecting with professionals 

The AANA congress is both a fun and educational opportunity for student and professional collaboration.   

One of the featured activities at the event was the college bowl, a quiz show where Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists (SRNA) compete in an anesthesia trivia competition against currently practicing CRNAs. 

It’s refreshing for students to be around people who are enthusiastic about their profession,” Dr. Jeanie Skibiski, MSU associate professor of anesthesiology, said. “It helps to recharge their batteries and keep them positive.” 

The impact on students 

The event’s workshops covered specialties, such as pediatric, cardiovascular and pharmacology. There were many informative lectures on topics relevant to both SRNAs and CRNAs.  

Additionally, students witnessed live demonstrations such as a CRNA performing a tracheal intubation technique on himself. 

“I learned many things and came back with enthusiasm to share my experience with classmates,” Wills said. “I can’t wait to go back and I hope more of us can attend next year.” 

Learn more about the School of Anesthesia