Natchitoches Regional Medical Center congratulates C. David O’Con, DNP, MHS, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist who partners with NRMC through his independent anesthesia practice, on being named Clinical Instructor of the Year by the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). O’Con received the national award during the AANA’s annual congress held in Nashville in August.

With more than 25 years of experience, O’Con is known for advanced clinical expertise and a strong commitment to educating the next generation of nurse anesthetists. He is the only CRNA in Louisiana to complete an acute surgical pain fellowship and applies that specialized training in his clinical practice and teaching.

O’Con creates custom educational materials, presents regional anesthesia lectures, and provides individualized mentorship at various clinical sites, including Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, to help prepare student registered nurse anesthetists for advanced cases. “David’s commitment to educating future nurse anesthetists reflects the values we hold at NRMC, which include excellence, compassion, and community service,” said Kirk Soileau, NRMC Chief Executive Officer. “His recognition on a national level is a testament to the caliber of professionals who serve our patients and community.”

O’Con currently serves as President of the Louisiana Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. He earned both his Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice and Master of Health Science in Nurse Anesthesia from Texas Wesleyan University and completed a fellowship in acute surgical pain at Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia.

During his acceptance at the AANA Annual Congress, David stated, “I have much gratitude to NRMC and our staff CRNA preceptors Dr. Paul Errington, Roxana Smith and Trent Friedel. This team provides the highest level on anesthesia care available and are all heavily involved in educating the student CRNAs and medical students.”