Monday, December 23, 2024

The Interplay Between Anxiety and Anesthesia

Nicole Gelfand, Verrazzano Class of 2024, completed major in Nursing

Reflecting on my capstone experience, I am filled with a sense of fulfillment and growth. I worked alongside Professor Danielle Hunton from the Nursing department, and learned about the relationships between anxiety and anesthesia. This project helped me unravel their complexities, and explore the pivotal role of nursing in mitigating anxiety effects so patients have a better experience with anesthesia. This exploration holds immense significance for me as I aspire to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

My journey commenced with a curiosity and desire to deepen my understanding of the physiological and psychological dynamics at play when anxiety meets anesthesia. I embarked on extensive reviews of literature to grasp the nuances of this interplay. From my knowledge learned through my nursing school journey as well as the information presented from my research, I gathered information regarding the types and levels of anxiety, the proper ways to assess them, and the effect it has on anesthesia administration and recovery, as well as what nurses can do to help relieve a patient’s feelings of anxiety.

Through this process, I not only enriched my knowledge but also cultivated a critical lens through which to analyze clinical scenarios. Moreover, my capstone experience illuminated the indispensable role of nurses in one's surgical journey, especially when experiencing anxiety. Nurses help serve as advocates for patient-centered care and are in a unique position to help assess, intervene, and support patients throughout the anesthesia process. Whether this is done through therapeutic communication, pharmacological intervention, or relaxation techniques, nurses play an important role in alleviating anxiety and promoting positive surgical outcomes.

As I conclude my capstone reflection, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunities and insight I gathered throughout this journey. My exploration of the interplay between anxiety and anesthesia has not only deepened my passion for anesthesia nursing but also reinforced my commitment to education for patient well-being and safety. With this newfound knowledge, I am able to embark on the next chapter of my journey toward becoming a CRNA, equipped to navigate the complexities of anesthesia practice with compassion, competence, and integrity.








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