[MelissaRN.FutureCRNA]

Help!

So, what is one to do when one finds oneself contemplating medical school with one year remaining in the nurse anesthesia program? Should I go for it? Should I continue with nurse anesthesia? I do love it (anesthesia nursing) -- but, I do miss the ICU (and as an MDA, I could be much more involved in the ICU), and perhaps most of all, I do want to know more -- as I've noticed the nurse anesthesia curriculum is so focused that it leaves me asking more questions than it answers. It has left me wanting, seeking more . . . Then again, I love the academic environment. Would a PhD be a better fit? That way, I could remain true to the profession in which I believe, while gaining the additional knowledge I need, I want, I am so thirsty for . . . I could teach, be involved in research endeavors, and perhaps help facilitate the nurse anesthesia cause. But would that cause be better served by an anesthesiologist? Decisions, decisions. What's a girl to do?

[deepz]

Well....

If you are for real:

1 - focus

2 - make up YOUR mind

3 - follow through.

If you have actually applied and jumped through all the hoops required to be accepted to med school, have you not already answered your own question?

....That is, assuming you are for real. I have my doubts.

[neurogeek]

Well, obviously you really were interested in going to med school or you wouldn't have applied. I say go for it!

[GmanRN]

I think the MD would quench your thirst. My main comparison would be the time commitment compared to what would be gained. Things to consider are your end goals. How old are you?

It would be Awesome to be a Dr and have that knowledge. Search your heart and see whats best for you.

Huge...HUGE decision. Weigh it carefully. Make sure you will be absolutely satisfied of the outcome.

You may decide to finish your CRNA training and then pursue the MD after it is completed.

G

[johnny500]

Applying to, as well as getting accepted into, any medical school is not exactly a walk in the park. If you've already done the legwork while going through a CRNA program, it's been that much more of a pain in the butt. I think that the decision is pretty clear. Why did you go to CRNA school if you wanted to be an MD?

[Kenelty]

It all depends on what you want, but my advice would be don't waste your time...or money.

I'm currently training with a senior resident who is also a CRNA who wishes he would not have done it.

I also have talked with multiple attendings and residents who have told me in no uncertain terms, "If I'd have known then what I know now (about the CRNA profession), I would have done that instead."

Just my $.02.

[paindoc]

My first thought is "are you nuts"? You are looking at spending nearly a decade of your life for more training when you already have training in a profession that pays well, is frequently satisfying, and can hold plenty of challenges in its own right. Unless you don't mind not having a life for 8-9 years, then I would suggest utilizing the talents and training you possess, and spend some vacation time on the beach. You certainly wouldn't have time for vacation or for living in medical school/residency.

[miloisstinky]

Wow,
Congratulations on all you success! But remember, just because you are accepted into medical school, does NOT mean you are accepted into an anesthesia residency program, its getting harder and harder, as is CRNA school. It depends how much drive you have left, IF you are up for it i say DO IT!!! Dont go thru life, wishing you had done something and didnt. You are gonna win either way!!! YOU GO GIRL!

[cube]

Originally Posted by Kenelty

It all depends on what you want, but my advice would be don't waste your time...or money.

I'm currently training with a senior resident who is also a CRNA who wishes he would not have done it.

I also have talked with multiple attendings and residents who have told me in no uncertain terms, "If I'd have known then what I know now (about the CRNA profession), I would have done that instead."

Just my $.02.

An anesthesiologist told me the same thing.

However, if one has already gone through the process of applying and interviewing for Med school (apparently while being in CRNA school), this person has already made up his or her mind. This question was simply posted to gloat or to let everyone know that s/he could become an MDA rather than CRNA. It is apparent that the MDA was desired all along if time was spent pursuing the MDA route rather than spending 100% effort on being an SRNA.

[n_g]

It depends on whether you believe in supply and demand. Once the CRNA supply catches up to demand or when more states pass AA legislation and more AA schools open, then the CRNA party is over. Long-term, being a doc probably is better.