Date of Award
Spring 5-3-2026
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Department
Nursing
Advisor
Dr. Bonnie Fagan
First Committee Member
Dr. Amy Bishop
Second Committee Member
Dr. Danielle Winch
Keywords
Diversity, CRNA, Pipeline program, Anesthesia shortage
Subject Categories
Anesthesiology | Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing
Abstract
The underrepresentation of minority groups in the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) profession impacts healthcare providers’ diversity and cultural competence. This Final Scholarly Project (FSP) proposes a pipeline program to increase diversity within the CRNA field by providing academic support, mentorship, and clinical exposure to students from underrepresented backgrounds. Given the shortage of anesthesia providers, especially in underserved areas, improving access to the CRNA profession for minority students is critical for enhancing patient outcomes. This FSP suggests establishing mentorship and skill development concepts through a 12-month structured program that targets minorities, first-generation college students, or those from rural backgrounds. The program utilizes a mixed-methods approach, collecting quantitative and qualitative data to assess recruitment, retention, academic progress, and mentorship effectiveness. Quantitative data analysis includes descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and ANOVA, while qualitative feedback is assessed through thematic analysis. Success is measured by a 15% average increase in academic assessment scores, 75% enrollment from target demographics, and a 25% CRNA program application rate among participants. Findings are expected to demonstrate that the program effectively supports minority students pursuing CRNA careers, addressing workforce shortages and the need for diversity. This FSP has broader implications for reducing healthcare disparities and advancing diversity in other medical professions by creating a replicable model for academic and professional support.
Acknowledgement 1
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Acknowledgement 2
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Licensing Permission
Copyright, some rights reserved. Attribution – Noncommercial – Share Alike
Recommended Citation
Lamoreaux, Alexis, "Enhancing the Diversity and Number of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists: A Proposed Pipeline Program for Underrepresented Students" (2026). Doctor of Nursing Practice Scholarly Projects. 165.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_doc/165
Poster