PHX Reporter

Banner Desert Medical Center has introduced a registered nurse anesthetist specialty clinical program in its pediatric rotation. This initiative aims to provide training and opportunities for aspiring certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA) within Arizona.

"This year marked a significant milestone for Banner Children’s at Desert as we welcomed the first group of registered nurse anesthesia residents for a pediatric rotation in our state," said Laura Robertson, chief executive officer of Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa. "We are dedicated to advancing specialized nursing education and are excited about the positive impact this program will have on the development of future registered nurse anesthetists."

Supported by funds authorized in 2023 by Arizona Senate Bill 1726 and the Nurses for a Healthy Arizona grant, Banner Desert Medical Center is positioned to enhance its student capacity for registered nurse anesthesia students. The hospital's goal is to replicate and expand this successful program to other Banner Health facilities across the state.

Banner Desert Medical Center has partnered with academic institutions to foster talent and excellence in the field of nurse anesthesia.

“Recognizing the importance of retaining skilled advanced practice professionals within Arizona, Banner Desert will provide local opportunities for registered nurse anesthesia residents to complete their clinical rotations in pediatric and other specialty rotations,” said Robin Shepherd, chief nursing executive at Banner Health. “Our collaborative goal is to improve retention of these professionals and improve access to specialty care, which is a win for all Arizonans.”

Banner Desert Medical Center is a nonprofit hospital in Mesa, Arizona, providing various inpatient and outpatient services, including emergency services, Level I trauma care, cancer care, heart care, orthopedics, women and infant services, rehabilitation, neurological care, and more. The medical center serves as a regional referral center in the East Valley of metropolitan Phoenix. The medical campus also houses Banner Children's at Desert. Both facilities are owned and operated by Banner Health.

For more information, visit bannerhealth.com/desert.