Program Philosophy
Webster University and the faculty believe that education for the professional nurse anesthetist should foster expertise in the art and science of anesthesia. Nurse anesthesia is an evolving profession sensitive to the needs of society and the profession. Residents develop this expertise through a holistic and complex integration of affective, cognitive, and psychomotor skills. Webster University's MS in Nurse Anesthesia Program believes that graduate study is fundamental in preparing to practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
Webster University also believes that the profession of anesthesia requires a strong scientific and dynamic approach to assisting in the return to health. The professional nurse anesthetist provides a variety of health service to individual patients and underserved communities using a variety of theories.
The practice of anesthesia involves assessing, planning, implementing, directing, and evaluating the care process. The practice of nurse anesthesia is founded in a long tradition, with numerous activities directed toward disease prevention, health maintenance, restoration, and rehabilitation. Fundamental to the practice of nurse anesthesia are strong moral, ethical, and legal codes. These codes are reflected in internal, external, independent, and interdependent behaviors.
Education at the graduate level is an expansion of the knowledge attained from undergraduate studies. Graduate education at Webster University encourages the development of advanced skills, theoretical knowledge, scholarly research, and critical thinking skills to practice anesthesia. The art and science of anesthesia are dynamic and require continuous education to stay abreast of current theory. Therefore, the nurse anesthetist must recognize the need to enhance knowledge, pursue research, and improve skills as a lifelong endeavor in the discipline.
Webster University faculty are committed to continuing education and research. That commitment includes promoting a creative and innovative learning environment, facilitating research and learning, academically and clinically, and serving as a mentor for the learner. In order to accommodate the interests and abilities of each resident, the curriculum builds a foundation in biological and social sciences, yet remains flexible enough to attain the required competencies. Webster faculty recognizes each resident as an individual on a lifelong pursuit of learning. They strive to help residents learn, stimulate their academic curiosity and critical thinking skills, and prepare them to realize their potential. |