eWhich Critical Care Setting for CRNA?

[NewGrad14]

Hello Nurses!

I am a new graduate and am interested in becoming a CRNA down the road. I have two potential job options in critical care...

1. Med/Surg ICU in a level 2 trauma center (22 beds)

2. Neuro ICU in level 1 trauma center (16 beds)

I love the Neuro ICU but am not sure if specialized neuro will provide the experience needed to become a CRNA when I am ready to apply and start that process. Obviously there are many other factors in play here but what type of experience will provide the best chances of becoming a CRNA.

Thank you so much for the advice!!!!

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

MICU/SICU would give you a broader critical care experience.

[lady_stic]

I agree with Esme12. You will get a much broader experience in the MICU/SICU and it would be beneficial to you as far as advancing your skills, expanding your knowledge base and preparing you for CRNA school. However, I highly doubt that it will matter as far as you being accepted. Most schools will ask you clinical questions based on your ICU specialty. It's all up to you.

[Reno1978, BSN, RN]

I think you should pick the job that you'll enjoy more. CRNA programs will want you to be proficient in critical care pharmacology, vasoactive drips, mechanical ventilation, hemodynamic monitoring, and resuscitation. If you can get exposure to this in the neuro ICU, which you enjoy, go for it.

I work in a mixed ICU that has an open heart program, a healthy neurosurgery service and your typical MICU/SICU type patients. I would say if I took neuro patients exclusively, I'd still have a solid understanding of the characteristics of ICU experience that's looked for in a nurse anesthesia program. Good luck!