ADN to CRNA

[ArmyWife1015]

Hello Everyone,

I have just been accepted into an ADN program. I am so excited about becoming a nurse and plan on becoming a CRNA. However, I wanted to get some wisdom from everyone on what will give me the best experiences in preparing me for my career goal of becoming a CRNA. I understand and have researched the basic info i.e. grades needed, recommendations, gre scores, and critical care experience. For example... I know that you should have at least two years of Critical Care experience but what type of adult critical care experience will best prepare me....

I guess my main concern is just becoming a great nurse and future CRNA. I would like to give my future patients the best because I know that is what I would want.

Also, I am currently a government employee in the DOD and wondered if this was a good route to continue in. I have planned on switching to an area DOD hospital once receiving my ADN to start my experience in the ICU. Would it be better to get my Critical Care experience in the civilian world? I hope to become a CRNA within the government due to lots of moving.

Thank you so much for any advice and assistance given. All wisdom is greatly appreciated.

[jfk6668]

I'm prejudice but I'd say try for open heart for your experience....SICU would also be great.......Other ICUs definitely work but surgical seems to be best because after all CRNAs take care of patients in surgery......

[boynurse2]

Anywhere you can get a variety of sick patients and lots ot titrateable drips. Micu/Sicu/openheart. The DOD is great with better working conditions than the civilan side usually. Some units like Ft Gordon usually give only one patient no matter the acuity which leaves some time to learn what and why you are doing what you are doing. Beaumont in TX has a level one trauma wich is like a civilian hosp. But Ft Benning would be a bad choice since it doesn't have a real ICU. Also, work in a teaching hospital because there will always be a resident around that can help teach you. Sometimes you become the teacher. The DOD will also pay for your undergrad schooling and send you to conferences on TDY and pay for your CCRN class/test on scheduled work days. The ADN-BSN part was hard and dreary for me. I like the CRNA schooling better even if it is more demanding. Good luck on your journey. Stay focused, you can do it.