Respect Across the Lifespan: Tackling Ageism in Anesthesia

Ageism has an impact on clinical outcomes. In an ideal state, providers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to identify and mitigate implicit age bias in practice. Communication with patients across the age spectrum is respectful, individualized, and free of condescension or assumptions. Age-inclusive training is embedded in professional development, and institutional policies actively promote equitable, person-centered care for older adults. Through evidence-based strategies—such as intergenerational engagement, bias reduction education, and inclusive protocols—CRNAs contribute to a healthcare culture that values patients of all ages equally and supports optimal health outcomes across the lifespan.

Learning Outcome(s):

Define and differentiate the forms of ageism-including internalized, interpersonal and structural ageism-and explain their relevance within the framework of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in healthcare.
Analyze the impact of everyday ageism on clinical outcomes, including physical and mental health disparities, patient trust, and the quality of care received by older adults, in addition to the impact of ageism between colleagues in the nurse anesthesia field.
Identify implicit age-related biases and microaggressions in clinical interactions and evaluate their influence on patient assessment, consent processes, and anesthesia decision making.
Apply evidence-based strategies to mitigate ageism in nurse anesthesia practice, including inclusive communication techniques, the PEACE model, and age-conscious policies that promote dignity and equitable care.

This program has been prior approved by the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology for 1.25 Class A CE credits; Code Number 1046036; Expiration Date 8/25/2028.

Crystal N. Campbell, DNAP, CRNA, APRN, CNE
Cynthia Ann Farina, DNP, CRNA, CNE
Heather Young, DNP, CRNA

Accreditation Information:
The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

AANA is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, CEP #10862.

Disclosure Statement:
Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content will be identified by the Nurse Planner within the activity. Any relevant relationship between an ineligible company and an individual with the ability to influence clinical content has been mitigated.

Post-Test Attempt Notice:
A minimum passing score of 80% is required to pass this course. You have TWO opportunities to achieve a passing score. If you fail to achieve a passing score of 80%, you will not receive CE credit for this course.

Content Disclaimer:
The views, information, or opinions expressed within the videos and audio are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology.

Course content has been prepared by the presenter/developer, and each viewer agrees that the presenter/developer is solely responsible for the content and the accuracy thereof. The viewer agrees that the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology has no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content.

Refund Policy:
Continuing education activities are nonrefundable.