Students at Albany High had an amazing opportunity to participate in a hands-on exploration to learn about the pathway leading to a career as a nurse anesthesiologist!
Healthcare professionals from Albany Medical College’s Center for Nurse Anesthesiology led students through an informative Lunch & Learn session exploring career pathways in nursing, with a particular emphasis on the education and clinical training required to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
Two of the workshop facilitators—Sean McGarry, MS, CRNA, ACNP, and Shaneé Hoke—are proud Albany High alumni, and they were thrilled to share their expertise with the next generation.
McGarry graduated from Albany High in 1997 and serves as an assistant professor and academic coordinator at the Center for Nurse Anesthesiology at Albany Medical College. Hoke graduated from Albany High in 2005 and is a student registered nurse anesthetist. She is currently enrolled in an accredited graduate-level program to become a CRNA.
Prior to jumping into the hands-on learning portion, students learned about how CRNAs specialize in administering anesthetics and managing pain for patients undergoing surgery. They also received an overview of what to expect in this line of work, such as types of shifts worked, cases managed, benefits available and typical salary range. Additionally, the presentation included insights on how compensation levels can vary based on one's level of responsibility and amount of advanced clinical expertise.
After the presentation, students enjoyed a hands-on learning exercise in which they learned about the basic steps of intubation utilizing patient care manikins.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hoke and McGarry, along with Brett Young, CRNA, and Dorcas Cruz for educating our students about CRNAs and a big shoutout to Albany High teachers Cynthia Blake, Markia Danzy and Cathy Vitas for bringing their classes to participate in the Lunch & Learn workshop!