Been out of the ICU 18 mths, can I still apply.

[cthom]

:hgu: I've been out of the ICU for about 18 months now, did 5 years in ICU prior. I've always played with the idea of becoming a CRNA, and now I'm serious about it. Is it a good idea to return to the ICU for 6mths-1 year and apply.

Any suggestions would be helpful.:wink2:

[putmetosleep]

You should check the requirements for the particular schools you want to apply to. For example, the schools I applied to require at least 1 year ICU experience within the last 3 years...I have been out of the ICU for about 18 months as well (2.5 SICU experience prior) and I have recieved interviews at both schools. I'm on the alternate list at one school and have an interview coming up for the 2nd school. During the interview at the 1st school, they really seemed to like that I had my CCRN & CMC and said only that my move out the ICU was "neutral"--not affecting their decision one way or the other--because yes, I did ask! :) I had to know.

If you have time before your applications are due, I would suggest getting CCRN and any other certifcations (CMC, CSC, etc) you can to make you a more competitive applicant. I'm not sure what the time limit is for taking CCRN after you've left the ICU (I took it as I was transitioning, and then I took the CMC exam). Make sure you have excellent recommendation letters.

As long as the school specifically gives a time frame for your ICU experince, then absolutely yes I think you should at least apply.