On This Episode:
What really happens after CRNA school ends?
In this episode of Grade 1 View, former host Kevin Chem, DNP, CRNA returns to the show nearly a year into practice to talk honestly about the transition from SRNA to CRNA, from the stress of boards and credentialing to the emotional reality of walking into the OR independently for the first time.
Kevin joins hosts Kelsey and Levi for an unfiltered conversation about the final stretch of nurse anesthesia school, choosing your first job, surviving the first few months in practice, and learning how to grow into the role of an independent provider. You’ll also hear about Kevin’s recent experience attending the IFNA World Congress in Australia, where anesthesia providers from around the world came together to discuss education, advocacy, and the future of nurse anesthesia internationally.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
📚 Consistency and repetition matter more than using multiple study resources
🏥 The first few months as a CRNA come with real growing pains
🤝 Strong workplace culture and mentorship matter more than people realize
🌍 CRNAs are making a growing impact globally through IFNA initiatives
🎓 Graduation is not the finish line—professional growth continues afterward
Important Links:
“You just need to give yourself some grace. Realize you’re gonna suck for a bit. Nobody’s gonna fire you.”
