Candidate Name: Roxanne Trivette
Program: Nurse Anesthesia
Committee Chairs: Drew McGuffin, DNP, MSN, RN; David Langford, PhD, RN, CNE
Committee Members: Lorraine Schoen, DNAP, CRNA; Natalie Gabhart, DNP, CRNA; Shanti Kulkarni, PhD 
Abstract:

Background: Transitioning from critical care nurse to a student registered nurse anesthetist (SRNA) poses challenges, including increased anxiety. Despite mentorship benefits well documented in the literature, the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) lacks formal mentorship program guidelines. 

Purpose: This study obtained a needs assessment on the anxiety levels of students and current perceptions of an informal mentorship program at an R1 University and Nurse Anesthesia Program (NAP) to make recommendations for future implementation of a formal mentorship program. 

Methods: A mixed-methods needs assessment evaluated anxiety levels and perceptions of mentorship among SRNAs. Quantitative data was collected using the Generalized Anxiety Scale 7 (GAD-7), while qualitative data was obtained through three-open ended questions exploring perceptions of the current informal mentorship structure and perceived needs for a formal mentorship program. 

Results: There was a moderate level of increased anxiety levels among this SRNA population. Among the free responses, students requested more structured mentorship around critical transition periods, such as matriculation of didactic course work, beginning of clinical rotations, and transition into independent practice upon graduation.

Conclusion: A moderate level of increased anxiety levels among SRNAs presents an opportunity for improvement with a more formalized, structured mentorship program at the NAP.