Autonomic Nervous System Function and Catecholamine Synthesis Breakdown with Dr. Sass Elisha, The Nurse Anesthesia

FREE! CRNA School Interview Prep Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/uc9a5ih4 Have you ever wondered why your patient becomes tachycardic during intubation—or hypotensive when the surgeon hasn’t even made an incision yet? These aren't just random fluctuations. They're signals from the autonomic nervous system—and as a future CRNA, being able to interpret them can mean the difference between chasing vital signs and anticipating them. If you're serious about anesthesia, understanding the autonomic nervous system (ANS) isn't optional—it’s essential. The ANS influences everything from anesthetic depth to hemodynamic management, and mastering its functions gives you a clinical edge both in school and in the OR. Here’s what you’ll learn:The difference between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systemsWhy understanding ANS function is crucial for interpreting anesthetic depth and hemodynamic trendsHow neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, and acetylcholine influence receptor activityThe physiology of alpha, beta, and muscarinic receptors and how they guide pharmacologic decisionsReal-world clinical examples that connect ANS theory to intraoperative decision-makingWhy the adrenal medulla plays a key role in the body’s fight-or-flight responseHow this knowledge directly applies to your future practice and board exams In this special episode, Dr. Sass Elisha—a nationally recognized anesthesia educator and co-founder of The Nurse Anesthesia—walks you through the complex world of the ANS in a way that’s practical, clear, and rooted in real-life anesthesia scenarios. By the end of this episode, you’ll not only understand the “yin and yang” of autonomic balance—you’ll be able to predict and respond to patient responses like a seasoned provider. This is foundational knowledge that will serve you from the classroom to the OR. As Dr. Elisha would say, "It's go time!" Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn More about the CSPA 12-Month Intensive Here: https://www.cspaedu.com/meblfkto Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Learn More about The Nurse Anesthesia, get Free Crisis Checklists and more: www.TheNurseAnesthesia.com Want more support as you prepare for CRNA school? Get 7 days FREE inside CRNA School Prep Academy!Explore the CSPA community, learning pathways, clinical education, interview prep, and resources designed to help you become a stronger, more confident CRNA school applicant.👉 Start your 7 days FREE inside CSPA [HERE]We’re heading to Panama City, Florida for the 2027 CRNA School Prep Academy Conference, hosted in partnership with Florida State University! Join us September 10–12, 2027 for an inspiring weekend designed for aspiring CRNAs who are ready to grow, connect, and take the next step toward nurse anesthesia school.Join the waitlist today and be the first to know when tickets become available.Get free CRNA school prep resources, guidance, and tools right inside the CSPA app so you can keep moving toward your CRNA goals with more clarity and confidence. 👉Download the App