Practice News: Utilizing the AANA Wellness Ambassador Micro-credential as a Component of Resident Registered Nurse Anesthetist Education

The purpose of this pilot educational program evaluation was to explore the integration of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) Wellness Ambassador Microcredential (MC) into a nurse anesthesiology educational program's (NAEP) curriculum and evaluate its impact on resident registered nurse anesthetists' (RRNAs) wellness-related knowledge and competencies. Eighteen third-year RRNAs enrolled in a Professional Aspects of Anesthesia course completed the MC. Following completion, the RRNAs completed a 39-item survey assessing satisfaction, perceived relevance, and self-reported competency gains developed using the Kirkpatrick Model of instructional design. Results indicated high satisfaction, with 89.5% finding the content engaging and over half rating the quality as excellent. Self-reported improvements were observed across all nine wellness competencies, particularly in knowledge of wellness resources and application of holistic health principles. The interactive format and real-world applicability were especially valued. Participants reported increased confidence in addressing wellness-related challenges and a greater likelihood of utilizing and recommending wellness resources such as the AANA Helpline (800-654-5167). Findings support early and longitudinal integration of wellness education within the NAEP to foster resilience, reduce burnout, and promote a culture of well-being in nurse anesthesiology. While limited by sample size and self-reported data, this pilot project demonstrated the potential use of MC as scalable, competency-based tools for enhancing wellness education. Future research should include longitudinal and multisite evaluations to further validate outcomes and inform broader implementation strategies.