RESUMEN
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a common problem in anesthesia. Although there are SUD policies in place for practicing anesthetists, there were no known studies before this inquiry discussing reentry policies specific to the student registered nurse anesthetist (SRNA). The purpose of this research was to describe key stakeholders' knowledge and perspectives surrounding policies for reentry into academic programs in Illinois for SRNAs with SUD and to create a comprehensive structured policy template for SRNAs with SUD. The theoretical framework for this research was based on the Biopsychosocial Theory. Between November 2017 and January 2018, qualitative interviews, using a semistructured interview guide, were conducted with anesthesiologists and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) from throughout Illinois (n = 4). The interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. All participants stated that they did not have a policy in place to address SRNAs with SUD, yet 50% (2/4) reported knowing a student who had experienced SUD. Institutions that educate and use SRNA services should have a comprehensive reentry policy in place, which includes an option for SRNAs recovering from SUD to reenter their educational program. A policy template is provided for use by academic anesthesia programs.