Hey vikichck,
I can answer some of your questions since you seem to be quite new. First of all, its nurse anesthesia, anesthetics are one of the type of medications we administer :-)
As for an online CRNA program, plainly....no.
Yes, its is competitive, the most competitive nursing specialty there is, only the top applicants are admitted. The program I was just accepted to had right at 300 applicants and 72 were admitted.
If you would like to find out more on what a CRNA is and does check out these websites...
www.aana.com (american association of nurse anesthetists)
www.barry.edu/anesthesiology (this is the program I am in, has some pretty good info, will give what basically all CRNA programs look for in an applicant)
-Work in an ICU, i.e. SICU, MICU, CVICU, I worked in a BICU (Burn ICU) for at least one year, some programs prefer the ICU be in a Level I facility.
-Get and keep your CPR, ACLS, PALS and CCRN current, get instructor certification in as many as you can.
-Get your BSN if you haven't already, be strong in your science, especially chemistry, specifically organic and biochem.
-Take the GRE, most programs like to see at least 1000
-Last and maybe most important, shadow a CRNA for 2, 3, or more shifts so you can see exactly what it is a CRNA is and does.
I don't start school until Janurary, but yes it is going to VERY challenging, but extremely rewarding. Fun and exciting? Its what you make of it, but yes I anticipate it to be both.
Good luck to you and your future. If you have any more questions, just ask. I have always gotten really good advice on this forum.
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