College of Science and Health Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

Summer 8-20-2023

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Abstract

Regional anesthesia has played a significant role in the reduction of perioperative opioid consumption while still providing high-quality analgesia, making it a fundamental practice in outpatient orthopedic surgery. The purpose of this study was to qualitatively examine the experiences and perspectives of CRNAs surrounding the utilization of regional anesthesia in outpatient orthopedic surgery. A qualitative study design using semistructured interviews was conducted (N =14). Study participants described their current practices and experiences with regional anesthesia utilization in the outpatient orthopedic surgery setting. In particular, four themes describing factors that promote CRNAs’ utilization of regional anesthesia for outpatient orthopedic surgery emerged: 1) employment selection, 2) institutional factors, 3) practice variation, and 4) policy change. Overall, CRNAs felt strongly about implementing regional anesthesia techniques in this patient population due to consistent experiences with its positive impact on patient outcomes. CRNAs expressed the desire to perform regional anesthesia, allowing them to practice to the full scope of their education and training, which ultimately impacted their choice of employment. However, there are several barriers on an institutional, organizational, and systemic level that prevent the universal utilization of regional anesthesia by CRNAs, leading to practice variations that inhibit equitable, efficient care delivery. This study highlights the importance of the universal utilization of regional anesthesia by CRNAs and the necessity for advocacy efforts to alter unnecessary restrictive policies and barriers, ultimately improving inequities in healthcare.

SLP Collection

yes

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Nursing Commons

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