Already have a MSN what should my steps entail?

cathys01 · Feb 27, 2008

The first step would entail obtaining a year of critical care experience (ICU).

Then, depending on which kind of program you are going for, you may need to take the GRE if you haven't already, and possibly get your CCRN (usually optional).

LonghornRN · Feb 27, 2008

Well, you probably won't have to take the GRE since you have a prior MSN, but you will have to work as an ICU nurse for at least a year (that is a national standard and there is just no getting aroud it)

Getting your certs (CCRN, CEN), will help and I highly recommend it.

CRNA, DNSc · Feb 27, 2008

Hi, I had a BS in another field and recently finished a program that allowed me to get my BSN and MSN in three years. I now currently work part time as a FNP and part time as a RN on a medical surgical respiratory floor. This is my first official year of NP/RN work. I have already taken the GRE's and graduated from grad school with a 3.7. What would my steps entail to enter a CRNA program?

You will also want to investigate programs that offer a post Masters certificate in Anesthesia vs earning another Masters degree.

MB37 · Feb 27, 2008

And your year (2 years for some programs) needs to be full time. Also, from what I've read here you should be prepared to defend your reasons for getting a second MS in nursing, and why you became an FNP if you didn't intend to practice as one in your interviews. Whatever your reasons were, just think them through and have an answer prepared. CCRN might not be required, but of course it looks good on any application. Go to the websites of programs in areas you would consider living and look up their specific requirements - you may have to take an extra course or two that wasn't required for your BSN/MSN, so you could start on that while you get your experience and certs in order. Good luck!

smileyRn96 · Feb 28, 2008

Interesting....Contact the schools you want to attend and see what they want for experience from someone with a MSN...1 year of acute care experience is required, most schools want ICU...Check out the AANA website for the exact requirements www.aana.com "becoming a CRNA"

Good luck

-Smiley

gasmaster · Mar 4, 2008

Just curious as to why you have decided to change fields so soon after graduating with your FNP?

one_crna · Mar 4, 2008

Hi, I had a BS in another field and recently finished a program that allowed me to get my BSN and MSN in three years. I now currently work part time as a FNP and part time as a RN on a medical surgical respiratory floor. This is my first official year of NP/RN work. I have already taken the GRE's and graduated from grad school with a 3.7. What would my steps entail to enter a CRNA program?

Transfer to ICU, work on certifications, and start looking for programs that offer a post-masters certificate option. Trust me...you don't want a second MSN (duplicate course work, cost, etc.). You also may not be eligible for a second MSN depending on the institution - one of my friends ran into this and had to go for the post-masters certificate (which worked better for her anyway).

pazzaragazza · May 27, 2008

one_crna, thanks for the helpful information. How long was your friend's post-masters crna certificate program?

Trauma Columnist · May 28, 2008

Also, be careful working in the RN role once you are licensed in the APN role. You are still held to the APN standard of care whether you are actually employed as one or not. Definitely something to think about. I was not able to work prn any longer in the ER as an RN because I am licensed as an APN and risk management didn't want that.

smileyRn96 · May 28, 2008

one_crna, thanks for the helpful information. How long was your friend's post-masters crna certificate program?

I went to Duke's open house a couple of years ago and someone asked that question...The answer unfortunately is that it takes just as long, but you do not have to take 3 or 4 classes core classes. You still have to take all the Anesthesia classes and sciences including retaking adv phys and patho becuase they are specific to Anesthesia. Plus all the clinical required is the same regardless.

-Smiley