Let’s be honest: * You glance at the EKG. * You vaguely recognize ST changes, axis “vibes,” maybe where the infarct is. * Then you move on because your ICU is on fire and the cardiologist is en route. But here’s the thing, as an CRNA, you’re no longer the one passing the message along.     You’re the one making the decision.     Preop hands you the EKG. Now what? Surgeon’s asking if it’s safe to proceed. Circulator’s waiting. You’re expected to decide if this patient needs to roll or reroute.   You don’t need to memorize another checklist.     You need to understand what you’re seeing in the context of: * Cardiac history * Surgical stress * Timing + risk   This is the level you’re being asked to think at—even if no one formally taught you how.   That’s why ICU experience isn’t “just” a prerequisite—it’s your foundation. You’ve seen these patterns. You’ve stabilized these patients.   Now you’re learning to zoom out and lead with that knowledge in a new way.   💡 Start with the next EK...