Jake Sareerak

Jake Sareerak

Assistant Professor DNP, CRNA, CHSE

Simulation Coordinator
Comprehensive Oral Examiner
Admission Committee 

Programs and Courses Taught

Anesthesia - Doctor of Nursing Practice 

NURSG 751L Principles of Anesthesia I
NURSG 755L Principles of Anesthesia II

About Me

Jake Sareerak is an Assistant Professor and Simulation Educator in the Anesthesia-DNP program, with over a decade of experience as a Nurse Anesthetist. Jake practices at Kaiser Permanente Eastbay and as a per diem Nurse Anesthetist at Highland General Hospital. He is also an alumnus of the program, which ignited his passion for academia when he was a student.

Jake's academic career began when he was invited to present on the anesthesia gas machine checkout process to the SF VA anesthesia department. He then returned to the Nurse Anesthesia program as a guest lecturer on various topics, including invasive line placement, trauma, and burn anesthesia. In 2016, he joined the program officially as an Adjunct Assistant Professor for Principles of Anesthesia I and II before transitioning to a Simulation Educator role in 2023.

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Nursing Education with an emphasis on healthcare simulation at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Jake's research interests include ultrasound technology, trauma anesthesia, and healthcare simulation.

Outside of academia, Jake enjoys beekeeping, raising backyard chickens, and volunteering with dog rescues. He resides in the East Bay with his partner and daughter and annually travels to Thailand to visit his family. His ultimate goal is to establish an exchange program between Thailand's nurse anesthesia program and Samuel Merritt University's program.

Hobbies: Beekeeping, raising chicken, and vermicomposting

Education

Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Ph.D. Nursing Education - In progress

Chamberlain University College of Nursing - D.N.P 2015

Samuel Merritt University - M.S.N Nurse Anesthesia 2012

Teaching Interests

My teaching philosophy as an assistant professor in the nurse anesthesia graduate program is rooted in the belief that education is a collaborative process between the student and the instructor. As an educator, I strive to create a safe and inclusive learning environment that promotes critical thinking, lifelong learning, and professional development.

My approach to teaching involves building strong relationships with my students and creating opportunities for them to actively participate in the learning process. I believe that students learn best when they are engaged in hands-on experiences that are relevant to their future practice. As such, I utilize a variety of teaching methods, including case studies, simulation, and experiential learning, to help students apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations.

In addition to fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, I believe it is essential to promote professional growth and development in my students. I encourage my students to engage in self-reflection and ongoing learning to stay current with the latest developments in the field of nurse anesthesia. I also emphasize the importance of ethical practice and professionalism, as these qualities are critical to providing safe and effective patient care.

Finally, I recognize the importance of diversity and cultural sensitivity in the nurse anesthesia profession. As such, I strive to create a learning environment that is inclusive and respectful of all students, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. I believe that a diverse student body and faculty enriches the educational experience and prepares students to work effectively in a diverse healthcare setting

Scholarly Interests

DEI in Simulation. The use of ORSIM fiberoptic simulation in nurse anesthesia education.

Community Service

As a faculty member, I am deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in nurse anesthesia education and practice. My dedication to DEI is reflected in my service to the profession, including my work as a mentor for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

I also prioritize mentorship in my role as a faculty member, recognizing the important role that mentors can play in supporting the success of students and early-career professionals. Through one-on-one meetings, group discussions, and other forms of engagement, I strive to provide mentorship that is both personalized and effective, helping students to identify and achieve their goals in the field of nurse anesthesia.

Overall, my service as a faculty member is driven by a commitment to excellence in education, research, and practice, as well as a dedication to promoting a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive field of nurse anesthesia.

Honors & Awards

Samuel Merritt University, Program of Nurse Anesthesia. Clinical excellence award. 2012
Los Angeles County College of Nursing, Evelyn Bard Kellogg Clinical Achievement Award. 2005
National Science Foundation: Research for Undergraduates Experience. 2002