CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA https://www.crystallenay.com Journey Through Nurse Anesthesia School Thu, 02 Sep 2021 01:29:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7 https://i0.wp.com/www.crystallenay.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-Screen-Shot-2020-04-15-at-5.56.57-PM-1.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA https://www.crystallenay.com 32 32 175797684 I’m Official!! https://www.crystallenay.com/im-official/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=im-official Thu, 02 Sep 2021 00:56:39 +0000 https://www.crystallenay.com/?p=890 Today I passed my CRNA boards!! It’s such an amazing feeling to finally be done with studying, busy to-dos, and clinical! I finally put away the books for the first time in 3 years. I will be sharing my study tips with the next few weeks. But right now, im binging a couple shows and just relaxing!!!!

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]]>
#CRNA#Boards

Today I passed my CRNA boards!! It’s such an amazing feeling to finally be done with studying, busy to-dos, and clinical! I finally put away the books for the first time in 3 years. I will be sharing my study tips with the next few weeks. But right now, im binging a couple shows and just relaxing!!!!

The post I’m Official!! appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> 890 HOW TO STAY FOCUSED AND GET WORK DONE WHILE STUDYING FROM HOME https://www.crystallenay.com/how-to-stay-focused-and-get-work-done-while-studying-from-home/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-stay-focused-and-get-work-done-while-studying-from-home Wed, 06 May 2020 00:58:46 +0000 https://www.crystallenay.com/?p=820 Since the closure of most study spots such as Starbucks, the library, your local coffee shops, and the school campus, we have been forced to study in our homes. This can be incredible distracting, especially for those with children, pets, multiple family members, and the day to day chores of the house. I know for myself, it has been extremely difficult to stay focused. Often times, I find something to do around the house that would distract me from studying and getting work done. Over the last couple weeks, I have found a system that works for me and has allowed me to knock out several goals on my list of to dos. I wrote this article to share with you some helpful tips on not just how to study at home, but how to study in general. Make a schedule One of the most important things is being consistent and organized! For some reason, your brain works better when you stay organized, and things are in order. CRNA school can be quite busy, and with so much to do, you can quickly become sidetracked or behind if you can’t keep up with the workload. Utilizing a planner or calendar will help with this. I use a planner that I often write down specific assignments for each class that it is due. I use my phone calendar to keep up with a particular lecture date, my regular clinical schedule, and things I must show up for.. I do this because my phone will notify me of these remarkable events. I can take my phone everywhere as well. Your planner should allw hourly breakdowns in which you can make a schedule to study a specific subject and the time frame to do so. Try to make this schedule weekly or daily. Heres an example: In my planner [Quarterly]: At the beginning of the semester, I take out my syllabi for each class and jot down each assignment due date. For each week, I reference a class to focus on for a particular day. (Ex. I might work on my DNP class material on Tuesdays; Anesthesia courses on Wed, Thurs) On my phone, I input information regarding major exams, when I have to go on campus, and my clinical days for the semester. I also jot down any special lectures we have to go to as well. In my planner [Weekly]: At the beginning of the week, usually on a Sunday, I look to see which assignments are due. I make a plan for how I will knock out each task as they pertain to what day I initially scheduled to work on that class. In my planner [Daily]: I use the hourly portion of my planner for this. I start with a set time to wake up. Let’s say, 6 am. Write in your planner that for one hour, you will do self-care techniques. Put in your schedule time to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For each hour, have something scheduled. It can be a planned break, taking the kids to the doctor, studying for a class, etc. Just set your schedule and get to work! Utilize the Pomodoro Technique Since learning about this technique, my focus game has been on point. You can download the Pomodoro clock on your phone, desktop, iPad, etc. But mainly, what it is doing, is allowing you to focus for a set period while giving breaks in between. I usually set my Pomodoro clock for 4- 25-minute intervals. During this time, I stay focused, sincerely committed to what it is that I am doing. My phone is usually tucked away in a drawer, or somewhere I can’t reach, and during this time, Its just me and my schoolwork. Having the clock ticking or in view, does something to my brain. What it is doing is keeping you focused in this timeframe. After my 25 minutes are up, the timer will go off, and I have a 5-minute break. During this break, I may get a snack, use the restroom, look outside, etc. Just make sure it is not school-related and take a mental break. When the break is over, you will be ready for your 25-minute full focus study session. The 25 minute on and 5 minutes off-cycle will happen four times (You can set this for a more extended period or a shorter period if you want). After the four cycles, I then take a 30-45 minute break. This long break allows me to do other things such as have lunch, make appointments, watch a show on tv, make a post for my blog, etc. Click on the link below for more information. Anki Flashcards CRNA school involves a lot of repetition. You see stuff over and over again but like a fire hydrant full of over and over! You have to remember med doses, physiology of every organ system, and the proper size ETT for each age group. I mean, the list is incredibly substantial and we’ll save that for another time. But I use Anki as a way to incorporate spaced repetition for memory purposes. It allows everything I learn in CRNA school to stay in one place, and it knows what information I need to see before I am likely to forget it. I incorporate Anki flashcard review into my schedule and make it a goal to go through theses flashcards daily! Don’t Cram You mustn’t cram information. Trust me, and you won’t remember it for long. Sure, if you have no other choice and you didn’t stick to the few tips above, go ahead. But it is not recommended. If you have to study for long periods, make sure you are rewarding yourself with some breaks in between. Studying for 4-5 hours at a time is not healthy at all. Take time to explore for 1-2 hours at a time utilizing the Pomodoro technique from above. Give yourself an ample amount of time to get the work done before any exams are coming up. Listen to Motivation Music in the Background Now I am not the type to listen to music that involves vocals while I am studying. If I do, I find the music to be extremely distracting. I will end up dancing or doing something that is not goals! I usually have some beautiful instrumental music playing in the background. Preferably something with alpha or gamma waves. I mean, I am so focused, I am often irritated when the alarm clock alerts me that it is time to take a break. So while you are studying, open up a separate YouTube tab and have it playing in the background. Here is one of my favorites: Reminders List I also put my daily to-do list in my reminders app on my Macbook. It allows me to check off my daily goals. Incorporating a reminders list will enable me to visualize what exactly needs to done and if I am consistent with my current goals or not. I’m a checklist kind of student, so being able to check things off the list is pleasurable to me!

The post HOW TO STAY FOCUSED AND GET WORK DONE WHILE STUDYING FROM HOME appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> Since the closure of most study spots such as Starbucks, the library, your local coffee shops, and the school campus, we have been forced to study in our homes. This can be incredible distracting, especially for those with children, pets, multiple family members, and the day to day chores of the house. I know for myself, it has been extremely difficult to stay focused. Often times, I find something to do around the house that would distract me from studying and getting work done. Over the last couple weeks, I have found a system that works for me and has allowed me to knock out several goals on my list of to dos. I wrote this article to share with you some helpful tips on not just how to study at home, but how to study in general.
  • Study Spot: Find a place in your home that you can close the door and have some privacy. It should not be your bed! I never study in bed. Why? Because it makes me sleepy and defeats the purpose of studying. You want to be comfortable, but not too comfy! So find a spot that allows you to have ample space with everything you need in reach. Have your water bottle, a cup of coffee or tea, and everything you need so that you can stay put for a couple of hours and won’t have to run downstairs every 30 minutes or so. That’s where the house distractions come in, and you WILL find something to do that is not school-related. Trust me!
    • Sometimes a change of scenery can be advantageous. I recently purchased a portable desk that I can take all around the house. Times when you are really fidgety and find it hard to focus, try to switch up your study spot. I purchased my portable desk from Amazon.

  • Make a schedule
    • One of the most important things is being consistent and organized! For some reason, your brain works better when you stay organized, and things are in order. CRNA school can be quite busy, and with so much to do, you can quickly become sidetracked or behind if you can’t keep up with the workload. Utilizing a planner or calendar will help with this. I use a planner that I often write down specific assignments for each class that it is due. I use my phone calendar to keep up with a particular lecture date, my regular clinical schedule, and things I must show up for.. I do this because my phone will notify me of these remarkable events. I can take my phone everywhere as well. Your planner should allw hourly breakdowns in which you can make a schedule to study a specific subject and the time frame to do so. Try to make this schedule weekly or daily. Heres an example:
      • In my planner [Quarterly]: At the beginning of the semester, I take out my syllabi for each class and jot down each assignment due date. For each week, I reference a class to focus on for a particular day. (Ex. I might work on my DNP class material on Tuesdays; Anesthesia courses on Wed, Thurs) On my phone, I input information regarding major exams, when I have to go on campus, and my clinical days for the semester. I also jot down any special lectures we have to go to as well.
      • In my planner [Weekly]: At the beginning of the week, usually on a Sunday, I look to see which assignments are due. I make a plan for how I will knock out each task as they pertain to what day I initially scheduled to work on that class.
      • In my planner [Daily]: I use the hourly portion of my planner for this. I start with a set time to wake up. Let’s say, 6 am. Write in your planner that for one hour, you will do self-care techniques. Put in your schedule time to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For each hour, have something scheduled. It can be a planned break, taking the kids to the doctor, studying for a class, etc. Just set your schedule and get to work!
  • Utilize the Pomodoro Technique
    • Since learning about this technique, my focus game has been on point. You can download the Pomodoro clock on your phone, desktop, iPad, etc. But mainly, what it is doing, is allowing you to focus for a set period while giving breaks in between. I usually set my Pomodoro clock for 4- 25-minute intervals. During this time, I stay focused, sincerely committed to what it is that I am doing. My phone is usually tucked away in a drawer, or somewhere I can’t reach, and during this time, Its just me and my schoolwork. Having the clock ticking or in view, does something to my brain. What it is doing is keeping you focused in this timeframe.
    • After my 25 minutes are up, the timer will go off, and I have a 5-minute break. During this break, I may get a snack, use the restroom, look outside, etc. Just make sure it is not school-related and take a mental break. When the break is over, you will be ready for your 25-minute full focus study session.
    • The 25 minute on and 5 minutes off-cycle will happen four times (You can set this for a more extended period or a shorter period if you want). After the four cycles, I then take a 30-45 minute break. This long break allows me to do other things such as have lunch, make appointments, watch a show on tv, make a post for my blog, etc. Click on the link below for more information.

  • Anki Flashcards
    • CRNA school involves a lot of repetition. You see stuff over and over again but like a fire hydrant full of over and over! You have to remember med doses, physiology of every organ system, and the proper size ETT for each age group. I mean, the list is incredibly substantial and we’ll save that for another time. But I use Anki as a way to incorporate spaced repetition for memory purposes. It allows everything I learn in CRNA school to stay in one place, and it knows what information I need to see before I am likely to forget it. I incorporate Anki flashcard review into my schedule and make it a goal to go through theses flashcards daily!
  • Don’t Cram
    • You mustn’t cram information. Trust me, and you won’t remember it for long. Sure, if you have no other choice and you didn’t stick to the few tips above, go ahead. But it is not recommended. If you have to study for long periods, make sure you are rewarding yourself with some breaks in between. Studying for 4-5 hours at a time is not healthy at all. Take time to explore for 1-2 hours at a time utilizing the Pomodoro technique from above. Give yourself an ample amount of time to get the work done before any exams are coming up.
  • Listen to Motivation Music in the Background
    • Now I am not the type to listen to music that involves vocals while I am studying. If I do, I find the music to be extremely distracting. I will end up dancing or doing something that is not goals! I usually have some beautiful instrumental music playing in the background. Preferably something with alpha or gamma waves. I mean, I am so focused, I am often irritated when the alarm clock alerts me that it is time to take a break. So while you are studying, open up a separate YouTube tab and have it playing in the background. Here is one of my favorites:
  • Reminders List
    • I also put my daily to-do list in my reminders app on my Macbook. It allows me to check off my daily goals. Incorporating a reminders list will enable me to visualize what exactly needs to done and if I am consistent with my current goals or not. I’m a checklist kind of student, so being able to check things off the list is pleasurable to me!

The post HOW TO STAY FOCUSED AND GET WORK DONE WHILE STUDYING FROM HOME appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> 820 How I Celebrated My Birthday During COVID-19 https://www.crystallenay.com/how-i-celebrated-my-birthday-during-covid-19/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-i-celebrated-my-birthday-during-covid-19 Fri, 01 May 2020 06:41:03 +0000 https://www.crystallenay.com/?p=762 Starting Out My Day My birthday started out beautifully. Waking up, I started with my usual routine of thanking God for another day. But today was different because it was my birthday. To be honest, I avoided this day. I didn’t want to face another year of growing old. But I’ve learned to think positively, and because of this new thought process, I have considered my situation to be a joyous occasion. I have learned to embrace this glorious age. That being so, let’s get back to my day… After I prayed and thanked God for blessing me to see another birthday, I then proceeded to head downstairs to make my famous pancakes and bacon. But to my surprise, I was stopped by my significant other. And was told that breakfast was coming to me. I yelled out in excitement and proceeded to get dressed. He then went to get breakfast, as I prepared for the start of a celebration! Breakfast was delicious and, of course, romantic. We enjoyed our meal on the patio of our own home. After breakfast, I was greeted with home delivery from The Cheesecake Factory. My classmates conjured up my favorite dessert and had it had hand-delivered to me in celebration of my special day! After the acceptance of my cheesecake, I was instructed to get on a Zoom Video with the class. To my amazement, they were dressed in costumes and sang Happy Birthday. When I tell you this was the most hilarious part of my day, please believe me, it was. Kudos to the best classmates!! What’s in the Box? Just like you, I was eager to see what was inside the box. Wrapped up with bows and wrapping paper, it made me feel like a kid again. But since you asked, I’ll share.. It was an Orbea Gain Electric Bike! I wanted this bike ever since my family came to visit, and we rode electric bikes around the city. We absolutely loved it! It changed my entire bike riding experience! Here’s to another outlet from CRNA school! Dinner After an evening of riding, this young lady was exhausted! But our lovely day was not over. It was time for a candlelight dinner, right in the essence of our beautiful dining room. And of course, a song to wish me a Happy Birthday, with dessert to follow. So this is how I spent my birthday in quarantine. No, it wasn’t our planned trip to Aruba, but it was extraordinary. Thanks to my significant other, classmates, and loved ones, this COVID-19 birthday will never be forgotten!

The post How I Celebrated My Birthday During COVID-19 appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> Starting Out My Day

My birthday started out beautifully. Waking up, I started with my usual routine of thanking God for another day. But today was different because it was my birthday. To be honest, I avoided this day. I didn’t want to face another year of growing old. But I’ve learned to think positively, and because of this new thought process, I have considered my situation to be a joyous occasion. I have learned to embrace this glorious age. That being so, let’s get back to my day… After I prayed and thanked God for blessing me to see another birthday, I then proceeded to head downstairs to make my famous pancakes and bacon. But to my surprise, I was stopped by my significant other. And was told that breakfast was coming to me. I yelled out in excitement and proceeded to get dressed. He then went to get breakfast, as I prepared for the start of a celebration!

Dessert

Breakfast was delicious and, of course, romantic. We enjoyed our meal on the patio of our own home. After breakfast, I was greeted with home delivery from The Cheesecake Factory. My classmates conjured up my favorite dessert and had it had hand-delivered to me in celebration of my special day! After the acceptance of my cheesecake, I was instructed to get on a Zoom Video with the class. To my amazement, they were dressed in costumes and sang Happy Birthday. When I tell you this was the most hilarious part of my day, please believe me, it was. Kudos to the best classmates!!

What’s in the Box?

Just like you, I was eager to see what was inside the box. Wrapped up with bows and wrapping paper, it made me feel like a kid again. But since you asked, I’ll share..

It was an Orbea Gain Electric Bike! I wanted this bike ever since my family came to visit, and we rode electric bikes around the city. We absolutely loved it! It changed my entire bike riding experience! Here’s to another outlet from CRNA school!

Dinner

After an evening of riding, this young lady was exhausted! But our lovely day was not over. It was time for a candlelight dinner, right in the essence of our beautiful dining room. And of course, a song to wish me a Happy Birthday, with dessert to follow.

So this is how I spent my birthday in quarantine. No, it wasn’t our planned trip to Aruba, but it was extraordinary. Thanks to my significant other, classmates, and loved ones, this COVID-19 birthday will never be forgotten!

The post How I Celebrated My Birthday During COVID-19 appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> 762 Need A Little Motivation? https://www.crystallenay.com/need-a-little-motivation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=need-a-little-motivation Tue, 28 Apr 2020 02:25:00 +0000 https://crystallenay.com/?p=540 It has been pretty challenging to stay motivated during this time away from clinical and lecture. During the times I find it hard to find the motivation to open my textbook and study essential concepts, I look to this video. It usually gives me that extra willpower to keep at it and get back to work! 

The post Need A Little Motivation? appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> It has been pretty challenging to stay motivated during this time away from clinical and lecture. During the times I find it hard to find the motivation to open my textbook and study essential concepts, I look to this video. It usually gives me that extra willpower to keep at it and get back to work! 

The post Need A Little Motivation? appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> 540 Celebrating Your Birthday During COVID-19 https://www.crystallenay.com/celebrate-your-birthday-during-covid-19/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=celebrate-your-birthday-during-covid-19 Fri, 24 Apr 2020 18:44:23 +0000 https://www.crystallenay.com/?p=717 Happy Birthday!! If you have a birthday in April or May, then you are most likely trying to come up with ideas to celebrate your special day. COVID-19 has put a damper on many of our birthday plans. For my birthday this year, I had a family trip to Aruba planned out. I was looking forward to having some much-needed relaxation between semesters. We’d been planning the trip since last year and had our flights and Airbnb already booked. Unfortunately, I won’t be celebrating in Aruba for this year’s birthday. Instead of pouting and feeling sorry for myself, I decided that my birthday and yours as well, doesn’t have to be a total bust. I have compiled a list of birthday ideas that will help you and your loved ones celebrate your day! Video Zoom Birthday Party Since the days of staying home, this platform has made it easier to communicate with our loved ones. If you have been following on social media, you probably have noticed the surge of Zoom Birthday Parties for celebrating. Video Zoom is a great way to connect with your friends and family visually. I have even seen DJs hosting Zoom Birthday Parties, which seem to be a great hit! Breakfast in Bed Celebrate the start of your special day with breakfast before having to leave the comforts of your bed. An accepted request to your significant other or children to conjure up your favorite breakfast hopefully won’t be that hard. Enjoy a lovely prepared meal served to you in bed while you get to relax and take in all of the joy of celebrating another year of life! Facebook or Instagram Live Party Now, if you want more than your 10 friends and family on a Zoom video call with you, then going live on social media might be an option. What could be more fun on your birthday than celebrating it with hundreds of strangers and friends that have come together to celebrate with you? Spa Day With most spas and grooming shops closed, you might be a little overdue for your manicure or pedicure. This is the perfect opportunity to ask your housed loved ones (hopefully, they are over the age of 8) for a little pampering. Along with that manicure and pedicure, end the night with a nice relaxing hot bubble bath surrounded by scented candles and beautiful, peaceful music playing in the background. Birthday Dinner If you have another chef in your household other than yourself, maybe requesting them to look up your favorite recipe and prepare a nice homemade dinner for you. Add candles and music in the background as well. End the dinner with a sweet “Happy Birthday” melody and a delicious cake as dessert. Family Game Night Play one of your favorite games, Charades or Pictionary. Have your family members act or draw out one at a time, something special that you have shared. It could be a moment or situation that has happened in the past. As the birthday person, try to guess what special moment they could be trying to get across to you.  On your birthday, may your spirit be enriched in light, love, and hope for a prosperous year ahead. Unknown

The post Celebrating Your Birthday During COVID-19 appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> Happy Birthday!!
Birthday SRNA

If you have a birthday in April or May, then you are most likely trying to come up with ideas to celebrate your special day. COVID-19 has put a damper on many of our birthday plans. For my birthday this year, I had a family trip to Aruba planned out. I was looking forward to having some much-needed relaxation between semesters. We’d been planning the trip since last year and had our flights and Airbnb already booked. Unfortunately, I won’t be celebrating in Aruba for this year’s birthday. Instead of pouting and feeling sorry for myself, I decided that my birthday and yours as well, doesn’t have to be a total bust. I have compiled a list of birthday ideas that will help you and your loved ones celebrate your day!

  • Video Zoom Birthday Party
    • Since the days of staying home, this platform has made it easier to communicate with our loved ones. If you have been following on social media, you probably have noticed the surge of Zoom Birthday Parties for celebrating. Video Zoom is a great way to connect with your friends and family visually. I have even seen DJs hosting Zoom Birthday Parties, which seem to be a great hit!
  • Breakfast in Bed
    • Celebrate the start of your special day with breakfast before having to leave the comforts of your bed. An accepted request to your significant other or children to conjure up your favorite breakfast hopefully won’t be that hard. Enjoy a lovely prepared meal served to you in bed while you get to relax and take in all of the joy of celebrating another year of life!
  • Facebook or Instagram Live Party
    • Now, if you want more than your 10 friends and family on a Zoom video call with you, then going live on social media might be an option. What could be more fun on your birthday than celebrating it with hundreds of strangers and friends that have come together to celebrate with you?
  • Spa Day
    • With most spas and grooming shops closed, you might be a little overdue for your manicure or pedicure. This is the perfect opportunity to ask your housed loved ones (hopefully, they are over the age of 8) for a little pampering. Along with that manicure and pedicure, end the night with a nice relaxing hot bubble bath surrounded by scented candles and beautiful, peaceful music playing in the background.
  • Birthday Dinner
    • If you have another chef in your household other than yourself, maybe requesting them to look up your favorite recipe and prepare a nice homemade dinner for you. Add candles and music in the background as well. End the dinner with a sweet “Happy Birthday” melody and a delicious cake as dessert.
  • Family Game Night
    • Play one of your favorite games, Charades or Pictionary. Have your family members act or draw out one at a time, something special that you have shared. It could be a moment or situation that has happened in the past. As the birthday person, try to guess what special moment they could be trying to get across to you. 

On your birthday, may your spirit be enriched in light, love, and hope for a prosperous year ahead.

Unknown

Happy Birthday

The post Celebrating Your Birthday During COVID-19 appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> 717 Favorite Podcasts in CRNA School https://www.crystallenay.com/crna-school-podcasts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=crna-school-podcasts Wed, 22 Apr 2020 03:14:44 +0000 https://crystallenay.com/?p=522 On those long clinical drives, I try to be productive with my time. I do this by listening to podcasts. Check out some my favorite podcasts for us Nurse Anesthesia students! Apex Live Anesthesia Podcast This is a newer podcast, but Apex has been out for quite a while. I enjoy Apex because it focuses on CRNAs in particular. It is also produced by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, which is also a bonus! Each episode that they have put out there is high-quality material to assist you with studying for boards and core classes. I look forward to hearing more from them. ACCRAC: Anesthesia and Critical Care by Jed Wolpaw I listen to this podcast the most. It often aligns with the material I am learning in nurse anesthesia school, and it was quite interesting. The host is very personal and relatable, and it doesn’t feel too commercial. There are a ton of available episodes, so I’m sure you’ll be able to find something that speaks to you. If you haven’t started anesthesia school and are still in the ICU, there are quite a few episodes that you can learn something from. Anesthesia Wise Guys Anesthesia Wise Guys is another nurse anesthesia produced podcast that is packed with information. They have been around for quite a while, and they resemble a table talk style of teaching. Check them out! Depth of Anesthesia This podcast is unusual in that it shares various case studies related to anesthesia. It touches on a variety of situations that we often encounter in the OR. This podcast is produced by an anesthesia resident, and he does a beautiful job of explaining what the actual data resembles. From the Head of the Bed Open Anesthesia I enjoyed the keyword sessions found in this podcast. The keywords presented are usually a variety of medications we give in the OR, different disease processes, etc. They share a ton of information in about five to eight minutes, which is incredible! The Medical Mnemonist Podcast If you are looking for some study tips or just wanna learn how to memorize things in general, this is a great podcast to teach you. They inform you how to use “memory palaces” and other memorization techniques, which really helped me with my study strategies. Even if you are not in school, the methods they share will help you in some pleasant way! Physiology by Physeo The Passion Podcast Pastor Louie Giglio is such a great pastor and speaker. Often times, you need the word to keep you going! Each time I play one of these sermons, I feel inspired and uplifted! The Dave Ramsey Show The father of finances! I have a handful of notes from Uncle Dave because one, these student loans… I don’t even wanna think about it. But yes, he will get you and your finances together! Jesus & Jollof Khan Academy I love Khan Academy! They explain things in a way that will help you make sense of the anesthesia textbook material. This podcast has saved me on a few exams! They even have some great videos to help you ace the GRE! Serial: This American life If you are into drama and mysteries, then this is a great listen! Especially when you want to listen to something other than anesthesia or school-related material.

The post Favorite Podcasts in CRNA School appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> On those long clinical drives, I try to be productive with my time. I do this by listening to podcasts. Check out some my favorite podcasts for us Nurse Anesthesia students!

  • Apex Live Anesthesia Podcast

    • This is a newer podcast, but Apex has been out for quite a while. I enjoy Apex because it focuses on CRNAs in particular. It is also produced by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, which is also a bonus! Each episode that they have put out there is high-quality material to assist you with studying for boards and core classes. I look forward to hearing more from them.

  • ACCRAC: Anesthesia and Critical Care by Jed Wolpaw

    • I listen to this podcast the most. It often aligns with the material I am learning in nurse anesthesia school, and it was quite interesting. The host is very personal and relatable, and it doesn’t feel too commercial. There are a ton of available episodes, so I’m sure you’ll be able to find something that speaks to you. If you haven’t started anesthesia school and are still in the ICU, there are quite a few episodes that you can learn something from.

  • Anesthesia Wise Guys

    • Anesthesia Wise Guys is another nurse anesthesia produced podcast that is packed with information. They have been around for quite a while, and they resemble a table talk style of teaching. Check them out!

  • Depth of Anesthesia

    • This podcast is unusual in that it shares various case studies related to anesthesia. It touches on a variety of situations that we often encounter in the OR. This podcast is produced by an anesthesia resident, and he does a beautiful job of explaining what the actual data resembles.

  • From the Head of the Bed

  • Open Anesthesia

    • I enjoyed the keyword sessions found in this podcast. The keywords presented are usually a variety of medications we give in the OR, different disease processes, etc. They share a ton of information in about five to eight minutes, which is incredible!

  • The Medical Mnemonist Podcast

    • If you are looking for some study tips or just wanna learn how to memorize things in general, this is a great podcast to teach you. They inform you how to use “memory palaces” and other memorization techniques, which really helped me with my study strategies. Even if you are not in school, the methods they share will help you in some pleasant way!

  • Physiology by Physeo

  • The Passion Podcast

    • Pastor Louie Giglio is such a great pastor and speaker. Often times, you need the word to keep you going! Each time I play one of these sermons, I feel inspired and uplifted!

  • The Dave Ramsey Show

    • The father of finances! I have a handful of notes from Uncle Dave because one, these student loans… I don’t even wanna think about it. But yes, he will get you and your finances together!

  • Jesus & Jollof

  • Khan Academy

    • I love Khan Academy! They explain things in a way that will help you make sense of the anesthesia textbook material. This podcast has saved me on a few exams! They even have some great videos to help you ace the GRE!

  • Serial: This American life

    • If you are into drama and mysteries, then this is a great listen! Especially when you want to listen to something other than anesthesia or school-related material.

Favorite podcast in CRNA School

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]]> 522 COVID-19 Impacts.. https://www.crystallenay.com/covid-19-impacts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=covid-19-impacts Thu, 16 Apr 2020 06:08:00 +0000 https://crystallenay.com/?p=451 Coronovirus has impacted the lives of many this year. I shared with you how this pandemic has impacted CRNA school, but in this post, I want to take the time to focus on high school and college graduates. The high school graduates during COVID-19 are suffering tremendously. I recall chatting with my little sister a few months ago about her prom dress. She was so excited as she shared with me ideas and pictures of her self-designed dress. She was going to be the best dressed at that prom. Not to mention, she deserved it. The girl made mostly all A’s throughout her entire high school term. She was always a good student. Not to mention she stayed busy and active while in high school. She’s been accepted into Spelman College.. girl has it going on. But then COVID-19 came with a bang and destroyed her moment and millions of other grads in her position. I mean, this was just the bare minimum. The girl was about to get to work. But unfortunately, prom is postponed. Not only that, but we also can’t yell her name as she walks across the stage. Us, her family, losing our voices and not caring how embarrassing we might be. But, I’m learning to look at things in a positive light. That positive light is that she graduated this year. She will go on to college early. She will graduate from Spelman College, and that will be the moment that we lose our voices. I am so proud of my little sister. Did I mention she wants to be a doctor? To be continued..

The post COVID-19 Impacts.. appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> Coronovirus has impacted the lives of many this year. I shared with you how this pandemic has impacted CRNA school, but in this post, I want to take the time to focus on high school and college graduates. The high school graduates during COVID-19 are suffering tremendously. I recall chatting with my little sister a few months ago about her prom dress. She was so excited as she shared with me ideas and pictures of her self-designed dress. She was going to be the best dressed at that prom. Not to mention, she deserved it. The girl made mostly all A’s throughout her entire high school term. She was always a good student. Not to mention she stayed busy and active while in high school. She’s been accepted into Spelman College.. girl has it going on. But then COVID-19 came with a bang and destroyed her moment and millions of other grads in her position.

I mean, this was just the bare minimum. The girl was about to get to work. But unfortunately, prom is postponed. Not only that, but we also can’t yell her name as she walks across the stage. Us, her family, losing our voices and not caring how embarrassing we might be.

But, I’m learning to look at things in a positive light. That positive light is that she graduated this year. She will go on to college early. She will graduate from Spelman College, and that will be the moment that we lose our voices. I am so proud of my little sister. Did I mention she wants to be a doctor? To be continued..

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]]> 451 Thinking About CRNA School? Here are some tips to get ready.. https://www.crystallenay.com/thinking-about-crna-school-here-are-some-tips-to-get-ready/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thinking-about-crna-school-here-are-some-tips-to-get-ready Wed, 08 Apr 2020 15:11:34 +0000 http://lazathemes.com/demo/daisy-wp-06/?p=37 Here’s how to get into CRNA school: 1. You must be a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s Degree. CRNA schools won’t look at your application unless you are a Registered Nurse (RN). You must have a Bachelor’s in Nursing as well. So if you have an Associate Degree in Nursing, look up some programs that will allow you to continue to work while you are taking classes for your BSN. There are quite a few of ADN-BSN programs out there! 2. You must have Intensive Care Unit (ICU) experience. When I graduated from nursing school, I landed my first job in the emergency department. This was before I had any clue what a CRNA was in the first place! So if this is you, emergency nursing won’t cut it. You must get into the ICU. I transferred to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU).  As far as which ICU, whether medical, surgical, neuro, cardiac, neonatal.. that I would not know. If I were you, I would do some research into which CRNA program you are interested in and see which ICU most of the cohort came from. This could give you some direction! Another way to verify is to call the program and inquire. It won’t hurt! Once you find a position in the ICU, you need to gain as much experience as possible. Try to take care of the more critical patients. Be active in the unit and involved in several committees. You also need to have at least 2 years of experience in this unit. I think the average time most of us spent in the ICU was about 3.5 years before starting CRNA school. 3. Have a competitive GPA. Yeah, I mean, this is self-explanatory. At least an average GPA of 3.5 could get your application looked at. Keep in mind, other applicants are applying with an average GPA of 3.8 or higher. It’s pretty tough. So what if you have already completed your BSN and you have a 3.3 GPA? It wouldn’t hurt to take some additional grad level courses such as Stats or Pharm to help improve your GPA. Make sure you pump out an “A” in these grad courses! Not only will it improve your overall GPA, but it will show program directors that you can handle graduate-level classes. 4. Become a Certified Critical Registered Nurse (CCRN). Now I wouldn’t say that this is a MUST. Its sort of like a should… maybe..thing. But it looks good and gives you an advantage. Most programs don’t make it a requirement. But think about it. Why wouldn’t you want to be certified in being an excellent ICU nurse! 5. Take the GRE I am going to be honest. The GRE was not my favorite. I took the GRE twice before applying to CRNA school and sent in my highest score. Its a pain, but most programs require it. Do some research and see if the school that you are interested in requires it. If they don’t, good for you! You can check this off the list. If they do, then check out my blog on how I prepared for the GRE. 6. Type up a personal statement. Your statement should explain to the program why you are the best candidate for the program. Why do you want to be a CRNA? Do you know what being a CRNA entails? If so, explain this in your personal statement. Take your time. Have several people read it. This is how you get called in for an interview. It matters. 7. Get several recommendation letters Your recommendation letter should come from someone that knows your work ethic as an RN and can testify to your critical thinking skills. One of your recommendation letters should be from your ICU manager.  8. Spruce up your Resume Make sure your resume is current and correct. What you put in your resume, be ready to explain during your interview.  9. Apply Apply to several schools. I wouldn’t just apply to only one school unless you are sure that you’ll get in. Keep your options open, and remember to make sure that the school fits you as well! Good Luck!   “Never give up on something that you can’t go a day without thinking about.” ―Winston Churchill  

The post Thinking About CRNA School? Here are some tips to get ready.. appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> Here’s how to get into CRNA school:

1. You must be a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s Degree.

CRNA schools won’t look at your application unless you are a Registered Nurse (RN). You must have a Bachelor’s in Nursing as well. So if you have an Associate Degree in Nursing, look up some programs that will allow you to continue to work while you are taking classes for your BSN. There are quite a few of ADN-BSN programs out there!

2. You must have Intensive Care Unit (ICU) experience.

When I graduated from nursing school, I landed my first job in the emergency department. This was before I had any clue what a CRNA was in the first place! So if this is you, emergency nursing won’t cut it. You must get into the ICU. I transferred to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU). 

As far as which ICU, whether medical, surgical, neuro, cardiac, neonatal.. that I would not know. If I were you, I would do some research into which CRNA program you are interested in and see which ICU most of the cohort came from. This could give you some direction! Another way to verify is to call the program and inquire. It won’t hurt!

Once you find a position in the ICU, you need to gain as much experience as possible. Try to take care of the more critical patients. Be active in the unit and involved in several committees. You also need to have at least 2 years of experience in this unit. I think the average time most of us spent in the ICU was about 3.5 years before starting CRNA school.

3. Have a competitive GPA.

Yeah, I mean, this is self-explanatory. At least an average GPA of 3.5 could get your application looked at. Keep in mind, other applicants are applying with an average GPA of 3.8 or higher. It’s pretty tough. So what if you have already completed your BSN and you have a 3.3 GPA? It wouldn’t hurt to take some additional grad level courses such as Stats or Pharm to help improve your GPA. Make sure you pump out an “A” in these grad courses! Not only will it improve your overall GPA, but it will show program directors that you can handle graduate-level classes.

4. Become a Certified Critical Registered Nurse (CCRN).

Now I wouldn’t say that this is a MUST. Its sort of like a should… maybe..thing. But it looks good and gives you an advantage. Most programs don’t make it a requirement. But think about it. Why wouldn’t you want to be certified in being an excellent ICU nurse!

5. Take the GRE

I am going to be honest. The GRE was not my favorite. I took the GRE twice before applying to CRNA school and sent in my highest score. Its a pain, but most programs require it. Do some research and see if the school that you are interested in requires it. If they don’t, good for you! You can check this off the list. If they do, then check out my blog on how I prepared for the GRE.

6. Type up a personal statement.

Your statement should explain to the program why you are the best candidate for the program. Why do you want to be a CRNA? Do you know what being a CRNA entails? If so, explain this in your personal statement. Take your time. Have several people read it. This is how you get called in for an interview. It matters.

7. Get several recommendation letters

Your recommendation letter should come from someone that knows your work ethic as an RN and can testify to your critical thinking skills. One of your recommendation letters should be from your ICU manager. 

8. Spruce up your Resume

Make sure your resume is current and correct. What you put in your resume, be ready to explain during your interview. 

9. Apply

Apply to several schools. I wouldn’t just apply to only one school unless you are sure that you’ll get in. Keep your options open, and remember to make sure that the school fits you as well!

Good Luck!

 

“Never give up on something that you can’t go a day without thinking about.” ―Winston Churchill

 

Your future work station!

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]]> 281 Success Tips for the GRE Test https://www.crystallenay.com/success-tips-for-the-gre/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=success-tips-for-the-gre Wed, 01 Apr 2020 14:45:52 +0000 http://lazathemes.com/demo/daisy-wp-06/?p=166 I told you in an earlier post that I took the GRE test on two separate occasions before getting into CRNA school. The first time I took it, I did not set up a structured study schedule. Here are a few tips to obtain high GRE scores: This was my downfall. The most important thing you can do is set up a plan and stick to it. Working in the ICU full time is already enough to throw you off schedule. So when you get a second, sit down and decide how long you have to study. Once you find out if it will take you two weeks or two months to review, take out your calendar, and set up your dates and times to study. If you need more structure, check out Magoosh! They have structured plans for you. I used Magoosh the second time and noticed a huge difference!  Another key to success is practice, practice, practice. Practice as many math questions as possible. That’s if algebra and geometry is your weakness. With most schools requiring GRE scores in the 50th percentile, practice will  make perfect in this situation. The GRE is a very long exam. I suggest you do practice tests in a setting that is similar to the testing center. This should be closer to the test date and will allow you to practice in the same environment. This will alleviate at least one source of stress on your test day. I hope these few GRE tips will get you headed in the right direction! Here’s to high GRE scores!!!

The post Success Tips for the GRE Test appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> I told you in an earlier post that I took the GRE test on two separate occasions before getting into CRNA school. The first time I took it, I did not set up a structured study schedule. Here are a few tips to obtain high GRE scores:

This was my downfall. The most important thing you can do is set up a plan and stick to it. Working in the ICU full time is already enough to throw you off schedule. So when you get a second, sit down and decide how long you have to study. Once you find out if it will take you two weeks or two months to review, take out your calendar, and set up your dates and times to study. If you need more structure, check out Magoosh! They have structured plans for you. I used Magoosh the second time and noticed a huge difference! 

Another key to success is practice, practice, practice. Practice as many math questions as possible. That’s if algebra and geometry is your weakness. With most schools requiring GRE scores in the 50th percentile, practice will  make perfect in this situation.

The GRE is a very long exam. I suggest you do practice tests in a setting that is similar to the testing center. This should be closer to the test date and will allow you to practice in the same environment. This will alleviate at least one source of stress on your test day. I hope these few GRE tips will get you headed in the right direction!

Here’s to high GRE scores!!!

The post Success Tips for the GRE Test appeared first on CRYSTAL LENAY, SRNA.

]]> 285 You are not a failure.. https://www.crystallenay.com/failure/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=failure Wed, 01 Apr 2020 14:40:43 +0000 http://lazathemes.com/demo/daisy-wp-06/?p=53 Often times we kick ourselves over and over due to something that we think we failed at. Try not to look at these situations as a failure, but as something that just didn’t work for us at this time. Keep trying until it works in your favor.

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]]> Often times we kick ourselves over and over due to something that we think we failed at. Try not to look at these situations as a failure, but as something that just didn’t work for us at this time. Keep trying until it works in your favor.

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