Nurse Anesthetists have been providing care since the 1800's when they cared for wounded soldiers during the American Civil War. And this week, Duke University School of Nursing (DUSON) joins the American Association of Nurse Anesthetist and the nation's 49,000 plus Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) and student CRNAs in celebrating its annual celebration of anesthesia patient safety.

The DUSON Doctor of Nursing Practice specialization in nurse anesthesia prepares nurse anesthesia clinical scholars who are skilled in anesthetic administration in a wide array of clinical settings of patients across the lifespan. Our graduates are prepared in the translation of research and other evidence into clinical practice, measurement of patient outcomes, and transformation of health care systems to ensure quality and safety.

Ranked as the no. 3 best nursing school for Anesthesia Education by the U.S. News & World Report, our Nurse Anesthesia faculty and students are committed to the transformation of health care to ensure quality and safety globally. For instance, faculty member Brett Morgan, DNP, CRNA, assistant director of the Nurse Anesthesia Program and assistant professor at Duke University School of Nursing, has been helping Ghanaian nurse anesthetists obtain additional education to improve health care outcomes for patients in Ghana.

James "Frank" Titch, DNP, CRNA, RN, associate professor in the Nurse Anesthesia program at Duke University School of Nursing, has been using a team-based learning model in a series of his nurse anesthesia courses for more than a year. Titch states that team-based learning encourages active learning and for the students in his courses learning isn't a spectator sport.

However, the faculty aren't the only ones transforming nurse anesthesia. On Saturday, January 30, the Duke University Nurse Anesthesia Program (DUNAP) class of 2016 will presents its 9th Annual Student Led Seminar. Students will present evidence-based information across the spectrum of anesthesia practices and specialties.

And while this annual celebration is about acknowledging the dedication of CRNAs, DUNAP students will focus on others. Class of 2016 and 2017 students are volunteering in the community this week at places such as the Durham Food Bank, the Ronald McDonald House, Project ReStore and more. The group is also traveling to local high schools and universities to educate other students on the nurse anesthetist profession.

Take a moment to join us in honoring CRNAs during this special week. Visit us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and share a special message for these health care heroes.