I know that this has been asked before in different ways, but bear with me, please. And I apologize in advance for the frustration that will probably come across. Nothing personal :)
I would like to know why it is that Perioperative experience is not accepted for Nurse Anesthesia schools? I am well aware that Surgery experience is considered unacceptable by all schools. I'm just trying to understand and alleviate my frustrations.
As a Perioperative Nurse (Pre-op, OR, and PACU) in a rural-suburban area, I've worked with Anesthetists and Anesthesiologists for the last 10 years. There are no Anesthesia Techs where I work--there's just me. I set up their central line kits and Swans (as well as programing the monitor), I've trouble-shot the gas machine, vents, and monitors. I've set up and managed all the drips and lines in CVOR. I have handled all the tools of their trade. I know the difference between a MAC and Miller blade. I've extubated patients in PACU, under supervision, of course. I've managed airways while administering Moderate/Conscious Sedation. I've assisted in codes.
All that sure sounds like what AANA calls "acute care," to me. So please tell me what exposure ICU would give me that the OR, PACU and CVOR haven't? I mean the way the folks on hear make it sound, there is no "instruction" in the CRNA programs...you just have to know everything before you get there.
I'd really like to hear from someone who worked in the OR before becoming a CRNA or, even better OR to CRNA to CRNA Instructor.
Again sorry for the tone, but I'm frustrated by my--possibly erroneous--belief that I am just as capable of being successful without ICU as a nurse who has ICU experience, at least in the part of the country I'm from. I know there are things I don't know, but isn't that what school is for?
