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
Drew Golden
Second Advisor
Andy Tracy
Abstract
Abstract Importance: The existence of stress, anxiety, and depression among student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) is well documented in the current literature. However, there has not been a sufficient description of the causes of stress and poor mental health among SRNAs, nor an exploration of how to best support SRNAs during their education. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to explore the factors affecting stress and mental health among SRNAs, to identify the perceived barriers that exist which prevent SRNAs from accessing mental health support services, and to seek out the resources and practices that SRNAs find to be beneficial. Design, Setting, Participants: This study utilized a qualitative descriptive research design. Two-hundred eighty-four SRNAs from across the United States completed an online, anonymous survey. Main Outcome and Measures: Survey respondents described the factors that influence stress and mental health during nurse anesthesia school, the perceived barriers to mental health care, and the practices and resources that promote wellness. Results: Academic workload, performance pressure, time constraints, financial concerns, and the learning environment are common factors that influence stress and mental health among SRNAs. 72% of respondents felt that time was a barrier to caring for their mental health or accessing mental health support services. The most common practices that SRNAs utilize to care for their mental include tending to their physical health and maintaining their social supports. Faculty support was the most frequently reported benefit currently being provided by nurse anesthesia schools. Conclusion: Mental health among SRNAs is complex and multi-factorial in nature. A majority of SRNAs describe a lack of time as a barrier to caring for their mental health. Nurse anesthesia program faculty can provide meaningful support to their students by promoting a culture of approachability, understanding, and encouragement.
Copyright
Copyright © 2026 Hannah Schlake
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Schlake, Hannah, "Assessing Mental Health and Wellness Resources Among Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists" (2026). Theses and Dissertations from DePaul University. 141.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/theses-dissertations/141