[AnnCRNA]

Which CRNA programs are the easiest to enter (but also provide a good education)?

I am graduating in 12/02 with my BSN. I want to start in Fall 9/03 in a CRNA program. I am doing an internship in ICU and will work full time for 8 mos after graduation. However most schools want more experience. I really want to start in Fall (I am not getting any younger or lighter you know)!

Ann

[nilepoc]

There is what you want, and there is what is required. The AANA, which acredits all CRNA programs in the US, requires that all students admitted complete at least, one year of ICU work. You really cannot get around that rule. You probably should be looking for entry in January 04, there are several programs that have that start date. See http://www.aana.com good luck.

Craig

[nilepoc]

BTW I am pretty sure, that it is one year of licensed practice, so January might not work out. I graduated in December like you, and did not get a license until the end of Febuary.

Unless of course you are already have an ADN, and are just getting the BSN and have some prior experience in the ICU, then your time line migt work. I am guessing that is not the case though.

Craig

[meandragonbrett]

Would anybody like to take a stab at the "Easiest" programs to get into? Competition is stiff everywhere.

Brett

[AL bug]

don't know where you live, but look at anesthesia-nursing.com and see all the programs' admission requirements

[New CCU RN]

Hey! I am just wondering...what is the rush? Not that I don't blame you for wanting to jump right into CRNA school, but there seems to be a reason behind the required year of ICU experience...that is to increase your knowledge, confidence, clinical skills, etc. Of course, being a CRNA and an ICU RN are completely different, but there seems to be at least in my opinion for what is worth a great deal of critical thinking, fast acting needs of both! If you don;t mind me expressing my opinion, why not do the year, get some experience? CRNA school will still be there. Aim higher than the "easiest" school to get into....although, it seems as though they are all pretty competitive. Good luck to you!

[alansmith52]

I remember the first time I grabed the amboo bag. I thought for a split second. " Should I really do this, now". and now after a year and a half I don't even think twice.

[braden74]

as a new grad in an icu program I definately believe in the 1 year minimum requirement. i am learning so much everyday and i think that it takes time for the right skills to become second nature as referrenced to before. i have spoken with crna's on staff at some of the universities i'm looking at and they believe that even 1 year isn't enough for most people. from what i have been told the rn's with 2-3 years of experience don't struggle as often in crna school as those with only 1 year experience. this of course is probably up for debate but clinical experience i believe really counts when you get into the OR with a patients life in your hands.

i say a few more months in the icu won't put your plans on hold too long and may benefit you more than you know.

[kmchugh]

I worked for three years in the SICU before beginning my CRNA program. There were still times I thought I should have stayed longer, to learn more. Remember, there is something worth learning at every step along the way. Don't run over learning opportunities in the rush to start a program.

Kevin McHugh, CRNA

[AnnCRNA]

Everyone knows about how good working in ICU is. Me too that's where I am working now! The topic is admission policies. You have all done your homework about ICU but do any of you know about specific admission policies?

Thanks