Overview of the Council on Accreditation Self Study Process-COA Self Study

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Laura Bonanno provides an overview of the Council on Accreditation self-study process for nurse anesthesia educational programs. She emphasizes the importance of referring to the most current COA standards and policies on their website as they are subject to change. The objectives are to discuss the COA's accreditation standards, policies, self-study, on-site review process, and the role of nurse anesthesia faculty. Laura, a professor of nursing, shares insights from her experience serving on the COA board for six years, including her recent involvement in the self-study process. Accreditation by the COA ensures that nurse anesthesia programs meet rigorous standards, allowing students to move towards certification eligibility and quality education. The accreditation process involves a self-study, on-site review, continuous quality assessment, and periodic review for up to 10-year accreditation. Graduation from an accredited program is necessary for eligibility for national certification and licensing. Several values of accreditation include assuring quality education, providing guidance for programs, uniform curriculum consistency, and professional advancement in the field. The COA practice doctorate standards encompass entry-level competencies for nurse anesthesia professionals and promote continuous improvement in nurse anesthesia education. The self-study process involves addressing 152 standards grouped into eight categories from conducting institutions, faculty, students, graduates, curriculum, clinical sites, policies, and evaluation. Key policies include student evaluations, on-site review procedures, and issuance of summary reports. Programs are advised to attend COA workshops for detailed guidance on the self-study process to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements. Laura encourages understanding and adherence to accreditation policies and procedures to maintain high-quality nurse anesthesia education programs.

Keywords

Council on Accreditation

nurse anesthesia

self-study process

accreditation standards

Laura Bonanno

COA policies

on-site review

quality education

certification eligibility

continuous improvement