Questions I haven't found answers to

ER Night Owl · Jan 18, 2006

Hello new grad,

I have a friend who is a CRNA. For the "sciences" pre-reqs I would suggest you check out a FAQ section at a college that offers that degree ( I believe it's Masters level). I believe that NO WAY answers the question for telemetry=ICU. You need to feel comfortable with L&D (as CRNA's insert and manage epidural anesthesia devices) intubation in all fields. Managing an intubated pt, having surgery, "stable" and life threatening signs of vitality, multiple pookie drugs/drips (anesthesia), while being yelled at by a surgeon and say... knowing what to do first when the power "bumps". You needed to take a long hard and logical assessment of your own knowledge, the waiting lists, the time commitment, projected job markets and the personal liability (yes malpractice insurance). Find a real live CRNA and ask that person "What do you do?" "Tell me about some of the worse cases/situations you have experienced."

Best of luck. It's something I've considered myself.

ER Night Owl · Jan 18, 2006

I found a link for you www.aana.com/crna start there and it's link after link... I wish you well

suzanne4, RN · Jan 18, 2006

Before any of you even consider a CRNA program, spend a few days shadowing a CRNA and see how you actually like it. It is one thing to hear about it, but another to actually see what it is really like.:)

It is harder to get into than med school right now, and see if you are really committed to doing something like that.

Ottalie · Jan 18, 2006

Thanks for the advice and the link.

Just as a side note, not a new grad. Just finished my RN-BSN program, two years ADN RN before that. But thanks for the cheer!!

Nitecap · Jan 18, 2006

Hello all! My advisor at my BSN program (just finshed, YAY ) recently brought up the idea of CRNA. In an effort to seek out all my options I've started to do a little bit of research. I do have a couple of questions that I didn't find elsewhere on this forum so here goes:
I'm in the process of applying for a NICU/PICU position at a level 1 hospital. I know CRNA schools prefer adult ICU however would my cardiac step-down background (roughly 2 years) compensate? I currently care for post CABG and vaso gtts.
Someone else mentioned a lack of sciences during their nursing school. I'm in the same boat there, my ADN only required A&P and my BSN had no extra science requirements. The thought of chem 1 & 2 is no biggie, however would I need organic to really be considered a good candiate?
Lastly, how many schools would you recommend to apply to? I honestly didn't realize how competetive CRNA school application was/is.
Thanks for your help, also if you do know where some of these answers are then just kindly point me in that direction!:)
Otta

A few extra sciences def. wouldnt hurt and would prob. make your app more attractive.

No the step down unit wont compensate for any lack of ICU experience. IF the program accepts pedi/nicu than that should be good. Though adult wouldnt hurt. Work your pedi and try to do a little part time in adult if possible.

The more schools you apply for the better chance you have to getting in.