Date of Award
Fall 2026
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Department
Nursing
College
College of Science and Health
First Advisor
Anne Sauri
Second Advisor
Amanda Galik
Abstract
Introduction: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are vital anesthesia providers, yet there is a notable gap in the literature documenting their experiences navigating pregnancy and postpartum. The purpose of this qualitative study is to examine the lived experiences of CRNAs during pregnancy and postpartum periods in hospital settings in order to inform organizational policies, promote maternal well-being, and support workforce sustainability. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used, incorporating ten in-depth, semi-structured video interviews with CRNAs who experienced pregnancy and postpartum periods while working in hospital-based anesthesia roles. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Thirteen themes emerged across four research questions. Participants described physical strain from continuing demanding clinical work during pregnancy, including fatigue, illness, sleep deprivation, and difficulty meeting basic physiological needs. Tension between professional expectations and family priorities contributed to stress, guilt, and emotional isolation. Financial pressures strongly influenced postpartum decision-making, often necessitating early return to work. Organizational barriers, including inflexible staffing models, inappropriate clinical assignments, occupational hazard exposure, limited maternity leave, and inadequate lactation infrastructure, hindered recovery and well-being. Pregnancy disclosure was described as a decision informed by safety and professional considerations. Interpersonal support, advocacy, institutional flexibility, and boundary-setting enhanced well-being. Conclusions: Pregnancy and postpartum periods represent physically, emotionally, and professionally challenging transitions for CRNAs. Findings underscore the need for organizational flexibility, compassionate leadership, and supportive policies to promote maternal well-being and workforce sustainability. Keywords: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists; pregnancy; postpartum; wellbeing; workplace experience; qualitative research; maternal health
Copyright
Copyright © 2026 Casey Boatwright
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Boatwright, Casey, "Pregnancy and Postpartum Experiences of Hospital-Based CRNAs" (2026). Theses and Dissertations from DePaul University. 138.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/theses-dissertations/138