Applying to CRNA school w/ 1 year exp.

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Nov 2, 2013

moved to pre-CRNA for best response

detroitdano · Nov 3, 2013

I think in this case, it depends on your age/maturity. Some of my younger classmates with less experience seem overwhelmed, while the older ones with less experience seem to be doing just fine.

That said, if you feel prepared mentally, there's nothing wrong with 1-2 years of experience before starting. A lot will depend on the program as well. Some schools pretty much ignore you if you've applied with only 1 year.

Da_Milk_of_Amnesia, MSN · Nov 3, 2013

To be competitive you need at least 2 years. Most people you are applying against will have more than that. While learning stuff out of the book is all fine and dandy and relatively easy, you're going to have to know drug and all sorts of other stuff with out even thinking and the more experience you have with drugs, vents etc, the better.

manusko · Nov 4, 2013

Hey guys! I am applying to CRNA school for Fall 2014. I currently have 1 year of ICU/Cardiac experience. I will have 2 years of experience by Fall 2014. What was your experience w/ "newer" nurses who got in to CRNA school? Did they feel as prepared as you? Did you do anything to specifically prepare you for school? Thanks for any information!

Apply. If you are denied you'll just be out some time and your application fees.

icunurse1987 · Nov 6, 2013

Totally agree. Let them turn you down, but don't decide for them.

Yuppers21 · Nov 8, 2013

Worst case scenario isn't being denied acceptance and reapplying next year. Worst case scenario is applying with minimal clinical knowledge and experience, being accepted to a program and finding out 2-3 semesters in your are lacking and struggling as a result of your inexperience and end up as a very mediocre provider - or not one at all.

Ok- before I tick off a bunch of SRNAs and CRNAs, rest assured that many fine folks have been accepted into great programs with the minimal experience required and went on to excel in anesthesia. Just pointing out that there is more to lose than application fees and not everyone is able to make the seamless transition from (relatively) new grad RN to SRNA and beyond

There are some who will argue that waiting at least 2-3 years in critical care in order to cultivate the knowledge and skill that comes with it is extremely beneficial - both for the profession and the individual. It's not about jumping through hoops to get into a program. It is the one part of the application process that can really make a difference in your student experience and professional practice.

manusko · Nov 8, 2013

Worst case scenario isn't being denied acceptance and reapplying next year. Worst case scenario is applying with minimal clinical knowledge and experience, being accepted to a program and finding out 2-3 semesters in your are lacking and struggling as a result of your inexperience and end up as a very mediocre provider - or not one at all.
Ok- before I tick off a bunch of SRNAs and CRNAs, rest assured that many fine folks have been accepted into great programs with the minimal experience required and went on to excel in anesthesia. Just pointing out that there is more to lose than application fees and not everyone is able to make the seamless transition from (relatively) new grad RN to SRNA and beyond
There are some who will argue that waiting at least 2-3 years in critical care in order to cultivate the knowledge and skill that comes with it is extremely beneficial - both for the profession and the individual. It's not about jumping through hoops to get into a program. It is the one part of the application process that can really make a difference in your student experience and professional practice.

I've seen people with 10 yrs or more experience struggle. We had a acute care NP with 20+ yrs fail out due to clinical performance. I also went to school with ppl that had the minimal experience and they performed very well. My post was based on the applicant feeling ready.

PatMac10,RN, RN · Nov 8, 2013

Totally agree. Let them turn you down but don't decide for them.[/quote'] I really like this. Better to have tried and actually have a chance (no matter how small) of getting in, than to have not tried at all and have no chance of getting in. If you feel prepared and meet the requirements, go for it!

criticalcaregirl · Nov 9, 2013

Thank you for all your replies. I am applying and figure at best case scenario I'll have 2 years of experience if I do get in. If not, I'll continue to learn as much as I can in the ICU! Thanks for your advice.