Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn More about the CSPA 12-Month Intensive Here: https://www.cspaedu.com/meblfkto

Expand your understanding of pain management and anesthesia with the esteemed Dr. Derek Owens, DrAP, CRNA and Director of Curriculum for Mary Baldwin University Nurse Anesthesia Program.

Dr. Owens guides us through the nervous system, starting with peripheral receptors and moving into the brain, explaining the role of sensory receptors in converting mechanical stimuli into electrical signals. He discusses the intricate pathways of pain transmission, including the dorsal column and anterolateral systems, and how these pathways influence the perception of pain.

With over 80 billion neurons in the CNS, Dr. Owens highlights the importance of synaptic connections and neurotransmitters in modulating pain signals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the Nurse Anesthesia field as Dr. Owens also touches on the role of local anesthetics and their impact on nerve fibers, providing insights into the latest advancements in anesthesia practice.

Also an Assistant Professor at the Mary Baldwin University Nurse Anesthesia Program, Dr. Owens brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. With a career spanning diverse settings—from medical missions in the Philippines and Mexico to military surgical systems—Dr. Owens has positioned himself as an expert in acute surgical pain management.

Tune in now to unravel the complexities of the neurophysiology of pain, and gain a comprehensive understanding of how pain is perceived and managed in clinical settings. Also, be sure to check out the accompanying PowerPoint presentation on YouTube for a visual understanding of the concepts discussed.

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 r

Join Us for Gassed Up: Fired Up for CRNA School The CSPA 2026 Conference 
June 12th - 14th at the University of Louisville, KY

Ticket and Agenda Information: https://events.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/

Get the Free CRNA School Data Sheet!
Compare every CRNA program’s requirements, deadlines, and interview details—all in one organized spreadsheet. The CRNA School Data Sheet helps you filter programs by ICU experience requirements, GRE, CCRN, last 60 credit GPA, and more so you can build a smarter school list without the confusion.

Access it free here: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/crna-school-requirements-spreadsheet

Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn how CSPA’s Personalized Money-Back Guarantee sets you up for success: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/6-12-month-intensive

Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success:  https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/join-cspa