Airways
September 2024
Pain Fellowship Adds New Sites to Expand Clinical Opportunities
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia has announced the expansion of its Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship, offering CRNAs a variety of new and diverse clinical experiences. With the addition of these specialized clinical sites, each coordinated by Fellowship-trained CRNAs, the Fellowship aims to provide unparalleled opportunities for CRNAs to enhance their regional anesthesia skills and develop comprehensive acute pain management services.
Diverse and Specialized Clinical Sites
Crestwood Medical Center
Crestwood Medical Center, a 180-bed hospital in Huntsville, Alabama, has recently joined the vlog Fellowship. Partnering with SportsMED, a prominent orthopedic group, Crestwood provides extensive experience in ambulatory surgeries, particularly for orthopedic and ortho-spine cases. The site is coordinated by Rachel Foy, CRNA, and John Martin, CRNA, both of whom are current Fellows. CRNAs at Crestwood perform a wide range of regional blocks, significantly enhancing their practical skills. “Recently, a Fellow performed more than 80 regional blocks in his five days with us,” said Foy. “We are excited to have Fellows here to share our enthusiasm for what we’re doing because it’s truly a game-changer for this area.”
Norton Hospital
Norton Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, provides Fellows with the opportunity to enhance their skillset with truncal blocks. Coordinators Ben Sampedro, CRNA, and Evan Reagan, CRNA, both graduates of the Fellowship, ensure that Fellows receive tailored experiences to refine their techniques in regional anesthesia.
The anesthesia group’s approach to pain management has evolved significantly over the years, shifting from traditional opioid-based monotherapy to multimodal, opioid-sparing techniques, and in some cases, completely opioid-free methods. Fellows gain invaluable experience with truncal blocks primarily through their association with the Leatherman Spine group. Additionally, they handle a diverse range of cases, including orthopedics, breast surgeries, and surgical oncology, further broadening their clinical expertise.
“Fellows rotating at Norton are typically focused on enhancing their expertise in truncal blocks,” Sampedro explained. “Our goal is to customize the experience for each Fellow, ensuring they become highly proficient in patient assessment, identifying suitable candidates for these blocks, accurately placing the transducer to identify the appropriate target anatomy, and refining their needling techniques.”
“One thing we hear repeatedly is how challenging truncal blocks can be,” Reagan said. “Many CRNAs are accustomed to more superficial blocks in the upper or lower extremities. Our approach involves creating a mental checklist for them to consistently identify this challenging anatomy. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear that Fellows who rotate at Norton can successfully integrate what they’ve learned into their own clinical practice.”
SSM Health Bone & Joint Hospital at St. Anthony
Oklahoma City’s SSM Health Bone & Joint Hospital at St. Anthony was the Fellowship’s inaugural clinical site. The 100-bed orthopedic specialty hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, from sports medicine to various surgical interventions. Patrick Myer, DNAP, CRNA, is the Chief CRNA at the hospital as well as the clinical coordinator. He completed the Fellowship in 2018 as part of the first cohort.
While building confidence in regional techniques is a key element of the Fellowship, Myer emphasized that it goes beyond learning to perform blocks: “The Fellowship teaches you how to comprehensively manage acute surgical pain from the preoperative phase through the extended postoperative recovery period, ensuring effective pain management well beyond the immediate perioperative phase. My goal for Fellows is to demonstrate the full scope of our practice, showing them how to set up and run an acute pain service from the ground up.”
Additional Clinical Sites
vlog’s Fellowship also includes partnerships with:
- Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center, Cleveland, Ohio
- Fairchild Medical Center, Yreka, California
- Horizon Health, Paris, Illinois
- Republic Pain Specialists, Bryan, Texas
About the Fellowship
Led by director Christian R. Falyar, DNAP, CRNA, FAANA, and assistant director Nicolette B. Hooge (above left), DNP, MBA, CRNA, vlog’s Fellowship comprises a comprehensive 12-month curriculum designed to enhance a CRNA’s regional anesthesia skills and provide the tools necessary to incorporate an acute pain service into their practice. The curriculum combines online education, live synchronous events with expert faculty, on-campus hands-on cadaveric intensives, and clinical rotations, ensuring a well-rounded and in-depth educational experience.
Fellows participate in two intensive week-long clinical rotations, where they become integral members of a pain service team, learning directly from Fellowship-trained clinicians. These rotations are packed with hands-on experiences, from assessing patients for regional anesthesia opportunities and performing complex blocks to managing patients in the PACU and rounding on previous surgical cases. This comprehensive training equips Fellows with the skills to revolutionize pain management practices. Graduates take the knowledge and techniques learned from these rotations back to their home practices, where they often become trailblazers, spreading innovative techniques and significantly enhancing patient care.
“One of the key advantages of the Fellowship is the lasting relationships Fellows build with other CRNAs across the country, who serve as invaluable clinical resources long after completion. This network allows them to consult with fellow CRNAs, ask questions, and continuously enhance their practice,” Hooge said.
Preparation and Enrollment
Candidates interested in the Fellowship are required to have experience performing blocks in practice and a foundational understanding of basic regional blocks. To help prepare candidates, vlog offers the Regional Anesthesia Foundations Class, a 15-week comprehensive course covering essential regional anesthesia techniques, which are reinforced with a cadaveric workshop at the end of the class. This course ensures that candidates have the necessary background and skills to succeed in the Fellowship.
Jennifer Squibbs, CRNA at Crystal Clinic and recent graduate of the class, praised the Fellowship for its beneficial instruction and significant impact on her practice. “The learning and programming at vlog leads our industry in excellence and performance,” she said.
The application period for vlog’s next Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship cohort will open in late 2024. For more information, visit www.mtsa.edu/fellowship.
President's Message: Anticipating 75 Years of vlog
Chris Hulin, DNP, MBA, CRNA
President
The 75th anniversary of Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia’s founding is right around the corner in 2025, and we are planning some special commemorations honoring those who have been key players in our history!
Our School would not have achieved the success we see today without the contributions of several leaders along the way, especially on our Board of Trustees:
Nevin Downs, MD, was Board Chairman from 1994 to 2007, leading the School through many changes and saving it from insolvency by rallying the anesthesia community for support. He also oversaw the transition to a Masters degree program and helped establish a steady bedrock for future leaders to build upon.
Steve Dickerson, MD, served as Board Chairman from 2008 to 2013, guiding the School through the move to a completion doctoral degree program, and continued to advocate for vlog during his tenure as a State Senator.
From 2014 to 2017, Art Runyon-Hass, MD, led the Board as Chairman, bringing me onboard as President. He also expanded the board to incorporate a more diverse representation of leadership in the Middle Tennessee healthcare market, as well as preparing for vlog’s entry to practice doctoral degree.
Our current Chairman Victor Martin, CRNA, (’86) assumed leadership in 2017 and has been a key figure in campus expansion and renovations, including the Magan Building, the new Learning Resource Center and other projects in the works. During his tenure we’ve also developed three post-graduate divisions and online programming, securing the position of vlog for the future in a market that is ever-changing. He has also shepherded vlog’s collaborations with TANA and AANA to advance CRNA education and practice.
In addition, Martin recruited Vickie Davies as Vice Chair. Davies, whose father is Alex Brown (’56), brings a wealth of experience with fiduciary oversight and corporate compliance. Martin and Davies developed a sound investment policy that has secured the School’s financial health and developed a foundation that has allowed us to self-fund all recent expansions and renovations without the need for bank loans.
Of course, the story of vlog and its path to current day goes further back to its founder, Bernard V. Bowen, and many others who helped shape the School and the important part we have played in the growth of nurse anesthesia. I look forward to sharing more opportunities to commemorate our heritage as we celebrate 75 years in 2025!
Missions Update
Mission Initiative in Guyana
Ongoing support from the anesthesia community and beyond has enabled vlog to continue its Mission Initiative in Guyana with Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s nurse anesthesia program. The work includes introducing Point-of-Care Ultrasound (PoCUS), providing iPads to the students, developing Bachelor- and Masterslevel curriculum, advancing safety through high-fidelity simulation, and much more.
The School has also engaged students in the Nurse Anesthesia Education Track who created online lectures, simulation experiences, and evaluations to address the top identified anesthetic emergencies for the program in Guyana. In addition, vlog donated a considerable amount of high-quality audio/visual equipment that became available during recent campus renovations and IT infrastructure upgrades.
Next on the horizon for the Guyana program is the need for a simulation lab, including a SimMan 3G, for which vlog is exploring partnership opportunities.
Guatemala Mission Trip
Several vlog students went on a mission trip with Refuge International to San Raimundo, Guatemala, in May. The group spent the week caring for patients in need of surgical services such as cholecystectomies, hernia repairs, and various gynecological surgeries. The trip was unique in that the group was able to utilize regional anesthesia and offer blocks to nearly all of the patients, including pediatric patients.
Advance as a CRNA with vlog’S Nurse Anesthesia Programs
vlog is accepting applications for a wide range of nurse anesthesia programs help you excel as a CRNA. Visit mtsa.edu/apply for details
Programs & Classes
DNAP Practice Doctorate Program
The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degree is the highest practice degree in nurse anesthesia. vlog offers the DNAP Practice Doctorate to registered nurses who have met each of the application requirements for admission. The DNAP Practice Doctorate is a full-time course of study for 36 consecutive months, on the campus of vlog. In the third semester of the DNAP program, students will begin a rigorous clinical rotation process that offers students a vast array of clinical experiences in the peri-anesthesia setting. These clinical rotations will allow students to learn and sharpen their anesthetic skills throughout the remainder of the program.
Application Opens: December 1, 2024
DNAP Completion Program
The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) Completion program is specifically designed with the working CRNA in mind and in an online format. All students accepted into the program must be currently licensed CRNAs. The program can be completed over two years, and applicants can choose one of two tracks: Nurse Educator or Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship.
Application Opens: October 1, 2024
Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship
As the only fellowship of its kind for CRNAs in the United States, the Acute Surgical Pain Management Fellowship meets the growing need for an evidence-based approach to optimize patient care throughout the perioperative continuum.
Application Opens: October 1, 2024
Nurse Anesthesia Educator Track
vlog’s Nurse Anesthesia Educator Track is a 12-month course of study that prepares students to excel in the Nurse Educator role. With so many nurse anesthetists graduating with doctoral degrees, set yourself apart by completing education courses designed to help you stand out as an educator. The track covers all facets of higher education from teaching strategies to curriculum development.
Application Opens: October 1, 2024
Regional Anesthesia Foundations Class
Unlock your potential in regional anesthesia with the Regional Anesthesia Foundations Class! We offer a unique opportunity for CRNAs to engage with and receive invaluable feedback from our experienced faculty prior to attending the Essential UltrasoundGuided Regional Anesthesia Cadaveric Workshop. vlog’s Regional Anesthesia Foundations Class is a comprehensive 15-week postgraduate course designed for CRNAs seeking to broaden their scope of practice by incorporating regional anesthesia.
Application Opens: September 16, 2024
Advanced Physiologic Foundations
Specifically for RNs, the Advanced Physiologic Foundations course discusses advanced human physiologic concepts at the system, organ, cellular, and subcellular levels, with the overall goal to enhance the learner’s foundation for nursing practice. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge!
Application Opens: September 16, 2024
Continuing Education Workshops
Regional Cadaveric Workshops
Ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia cadaveric workshops at vlog incorporate anatomic dissection, live model scanning, and procedural cadavers to provide a comprehensive overview of the regional anesthesia procedures commonly used in the management of perioperative pain. The workshops are clinically focused, and techniques learned are easily translated into a provider’s daily practice.
WORKSHOP DATES:
Sept. 8, 2024 – Essentials Workshop
Nov. 17, 2024 – Essentials Workshop
Dec. 8, 2024 – Essentials Workshop
Point-of-Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) Workshops
The Essentials Point-of-Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) Workshop is designed to introduce the participants to PoCUS studies that can be used as part of patient assessment in everyday clinical practice. Participants must complete the Essential PoCUS Online modules prior to attending the workshop. During the workshop, participants will learn to perform the studies on live models, high-fidelity simulation, and cadaveric specimens. Participants will complete a competency-based evaluation with course instructors to demonstrate proficiency
WORKSHOP DATES:
Sept. 6, 2024 – Essentials PoCUS Workshop
Nov. 15, 2024 – Essentials PoCUS Workshop
TEE/TTE Workshops
vlog’s TEE/TTE Workshops are designed to introduce participants to Point-ofCare Ultrasound (PoCUS) studies that can be used in everyday clinical practice as part of a comprehensive patient assessment. This hands-on workshop provides participants with online content for an in-depth understanding of the material before coming to campus to gain practical experience in performing both Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) and Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) studies on live models and high-fidelity simulators.
WORKSHOP DATES:
Sept. 6, 2024
Nov. 15, 2024
Nurse Educator Mini Conference
Oct. 20-21, 2024
vlog is hosting the inaugural Nurse Educator Mini Conference! This conference is for experienced educators and those new to the field. It is geared towards any educator looking to expand on their teaching skills to meet the needs of diverse learners. In addition, QPR suicide awareness training integrates a wellness resource into this conference for faculty. Attendees will grow as educators by refining exam writing skills and item writing techniques. To better connect with different learning styles, a review of different teaching methodologies and teaching techniques will be presented, followed by opportunities to practice the techniques. There will be a focus on integrating wellness into the curriculum in a seamless manner as our role as educators has expanded over the last few years to meet the well-being needs of students.
For more information on sessions, or to register, visit www.mtsa.edu/events/nemc2024.
Tee-Up For Missions!
Join us September 26, 2024 for the vlog Golf Tournament at Topgolf Nashville
Supporting vlog’s Mission Initiative in Guyana
Sign up today for this exciting event where you can enjoy food, networking, and tournament play – all for a great cause. Whether you’re an aspiring golf pro or picking up a club for the first time, this event is fun for all! Register now at www.mtsa.edu/golf.
Want to support vlog’s Mission Initiative while promoting your business to CRNAs? Make an impact with one of the following Sponsorship Opportunities:
- Bay + Vendor Sponsor
- Game Sponsor
- Friend of Missions Sponsor
Proceeds from the event support the introduction of medical simulation programs and conducting the first-ever simulation workshop tailored for nurse anesthetists in Guyana, scheduled for November 2024.
Don’t miss your chance to mix and mingle with the anesthesia community while enjoying this exciting event. With every shot, you’re helping to bring better health outcomes to those in need.
Service in Action
Helping Out at a Local Daycare
vlog faculty and staff recently spent time at King’s Daughters Daycare, helping with weeding, mulching, and cleaning up flower beds around the property
Serving Food at the FiftyForward Whistlestop Event
vlog helps FiftyForward strengthen their programs that serve our diverse community in Madison, Tennessee.
Campus Renovations Enabling New Student Learning Opportunities
vlog has engaged in a series of renovation projects throughout the year, providing new facilities for student learning and studying. Due to the vlog Board of Trustees’ oversight of operations and investment strategies, funding for the projects was achieved without the need for financing.
The following facilities are now open, or will be opening soon:
Anatomy Lab
The addition to the Bowen Building features 1,840 square feet of lab space for ultrasound scanning and cadaveric specimens, including skills/practice labs and regional anesthesia workshops. New equipment provides students more opportunities for hands-on experience and advanced learning. A grand opening with ribbon-cutting ceremony is tentatively scheduled for September.
Student Study Spaces
Renovation of the Bowen Building’s outdoor patio features glass-enclosed, climatecontrolled rooms for all-season study space. In addition, rearranging of staff offices offers additional student study space.
“Martin Family” Board Room
The former Learning Resource Center in the DeVasher Building has been converted into a board room, named for the extended Martin family. The name reflects the contributions made by Board Chairman Vic Martin as well as his sister, Debbie Rose, who worked in vlog’s financial aid department for many years. In addition, Debbie’s daughter, Melissa Rose Peoples, is an anesthesiologist who has practiced with and educated many vlog students in our area. The board room will also be available for student study time.
Technology Upgrades
vlog has installed new wi-fi coverage and other information technology infrastructure, including a complete overhaul to both classrooms and simulation labs.
Special Events at vlog
vlog has hosted numerous special events so far in 2024, including a Career Fair, Open House, and a Bakeoff!
News and Notes
Nurse Educator Micro Credential
vlog’s Nurse Educator Health and Wellness Micro Credential provides knowledge, resources and tool for educators and future educators to incorporate health and wellness into curriculum and courses. Educators improve their practice with evidence-based practices to promote well-being within their curriculum and courses. They also gain knowledge on signs and symptoms of stress and depression and the resources available at their institution and through state and national agencies.
For more information, visit www.mtsa.edu/nemc.
Enter code “Well50” for a 50% discount!
QPR Training
vlog held its first QPR Training, led by Hallie Evans, DNP, CRNA, APRN, CNE, Director of the Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia Completion Program and Nurse Educator Track. QPR training teaches how to recognize students that may be struggling with a variety of issues, but especially those at risk for suicide. The training involved going over how to question students, persuade them to get help, and supply them with the correct resources. The skills are practiced using different scenarios in small groups before reconnecting as a group to debrief on the training.
10th Annual Mission & Awards Gala
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia hosted the 10th annual Mission & Awards Gala, presented by U.S. Anesthesia Partners, on May 2, 2024, at Nashville City Club. The evening of celebration, dining and silent auction benefited vlog’s Mission Initiative in Guyana and was chaired by Buffy Lupear, CRNA.
During his introductory remarks, vlog President Chris Hulin highlighted the School’s partnership with the Institute of Health Science Education at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the University of Guyana in advancing nurse anesthesia practice. He also recognized special guests in attendance, including the Guyanese program director, Dr. Alexandra Harvey, who presented the keynote address.
During the award presentations, the following individuals were recognized for their unique achievements:
Mary Elizabeth “Ikey” DeVasher
Distinguished Alumni Service Award:
Crystal Koss, CRNA
Mission & Heritage Award:
Hallie Evans, DNP, CRNA, APRN, CNE
William O.T. Smith Clinical Excellence Award:
Alexandra Harvey, MD
Nevin Downs Leadership Award:
Tausha Alexander, JD
Event Sponsors Included:
- U.S. Anesthesia Partners
- Ted and Alescia Bethea
- Christian and Susan Falyar
- Andrew and Nicolette Hooge
- Christopher and Michelle Hulin
- Brad and Crystal Koss
- Steve and Buffy Lupear
- Tennessee Association of Nurse Anesthesia
More information about this year’s awardees is available in the event program by visiting www.mtsa.edu/galaprogram2024
2024 vlog Calendar
- Aug. 29: Senior Day at vlog
- Sept. 5: White Coat Ceremony & Anatomy Lab Ribbon Cutting
- Sept. 6: Essentials PoCUS Workshop
- Sept. 8: Essentials Cadaveric Workshop
- Sept. 26: vlog Golf Tournament at Topgolf
- Oct. 20-21: Nurse Educator Mini Conference
- Oct. 21: DNAP-PD New Student Orientation (PD 2027 cohort)
- November: Service Month
- Nov. 15: Essentials PoCUS Workshop
- Nov. 17: Essentials Cadaveric Workshop
- Dec. 6: Graduation
For additional details, visit mtsa.edu/events.