[brookesbuddy]

Has anyone gotten accepted into CRNA school while working only casually in ICU? I've worked ICU for 2 years, but am thinking of switching to a casual basis and working FT elsewhere.

[joenl]

THAT IS A GOOD QUESTION. I WORK FULL TIME SOMEWHERE ELSE AND HAVE WORKED CASUALLY (PRN) IN ICU FOR 2 YEARS. IS THIS ACCEPTABLE?

[asianrn]

I have a coworker that worked casually and not full time for a year in ICU though he was granted an interview with some schools that he applied to, none of which accepted him--all same reasons he lacked ICU experience. Why don't you want to be full time and just work casually in other department?

[LIZPICURN]

When I applied I was full-time. I think the programs prefer that, yet I can't say that for sure. After I was accepted, I went support. I still work a lot of hours- just in two ICU's. I would probablly call the programs of interest and inquire. Good luck!

[skipaway]

My selection committee would look poorly at someone who just works PT or casually in an ICU. You would be asked why you chose to do that when your goal is to become a CRNA and the only way to do that is getting ICU experience. Some, not all, PT/Casual ICU workers do not get assigned the sickest patients. Organization, management and critical thinking come with consistent work with critical patients. Yes, a person may have accrued the magic "1 year" of ICU experience with this method, but again, not a great way to go about demonstrating your desire to become a CRNA. I see that you have 2 years already, I'd keep to FT status and then apply. IMHO
Good luck to you.

[custoomer]

No ICU experience here. Except in ER/ICU holding area for R/O MI patient's! 10 years ED. Applied to 4 schools. Offered interviews from all. Start CRNA school in JUNE 2007!!!! Be confident and turn negatives into positives. Good Luck! B

[vtach126]

Originally Posted by custoomer

No ICU experience here. Except in ER/ICU holding area for R/O MI patient's! 10 years ED. Applied to 4 schools. Offered interviews from all. Start CRNA school in JUNE 2007!!!! Be confident and turn negatives into positives. Good Luck! B

Can I ask where you applied to? I have Level I ER and PACU experience, and I have been stressing about finding an ICU job that is not a night position.........

[japaho41]

My advice would be to get accepted first don't make any sudden moves that would raise red flags. I have seen some admission criteria that states that applicant must remain in the ICU (I would think full-time) up until you start the program.