Best Route to Become a CRNA

WayneStateKatie · Sep 12, 2008

Sounds like you've got it pretty much figured out. Once you have your BSN and have a few years of work in adult ICU under your belt you'll be eligible to apply to CRNA programs (these are masters degree programs. There is no need to get a masters in nursing before going to CRNA school).

They are exceedingly competitive so you'll need very good grades in nursing school (like at least a 3.5) and a great references from employers and college. Most programs require you to work in adult ICU (SICU, MICU). Some programs will accept NICU experience or ER department experience. Check what the requirements are for CRNA programs in your area (should be listed on the schools website) Additionally you may need to meet other criteria like taking the GRE exam or a few graduate level statistics or other courses before you are eligible to apply. You usually need at least 2 years work experience, and certain science classes (A&P, general bio, chem etc need to be taken anywhere within the last 7-10 years. You may need to retake them if your courses are outside of that time window)

CRNA programs are very demanding. You will not be able to work while in the program. They are usually two years long and you typically have 60 contact hours a week and then homework/ readings on top of that. Hope that helped answer some of your questions and good luck in school this January:loveya:

jls189 · Sep 12, 2008

Like the previous post says, "I think you pretty much have it figured out". Please make sure you work in an ICU immediately after school. Skip the ED. While some schools (not many) will accept Ed exp., you won't get the exp. you need. In ED, you usually don't care for the same patients for 12 straight hours. You "treat 'em and street 'em" so to speak. Try to work at big hospital where you'll get the sickest patients and best experience. It will be hard but worth it. I'm sure you'll be able to work 3-12 hr shifts. Most hospitals do that now days. Make sure you keep a high GPA throughout ADN and BSN. Concentrate on school now. When done w/ ADN & working on BSN, you can then start looking to prepare for GRE, if required. Then, think about shadowing a CRNA to se if it is really what you want to do. I haven't applied to CRNA school yet, but have been shadowing,and I love it. Can't wait to start school. Like the previous poster said, you definately can't work while in school. So, pay off all bills you can and try not to accumulate a lot more. Hard when in school, I know. Don't start working on you're MSN immediately after you're BSN, you'll get you're MSN in anesthesia school. Hope this helps.

jfk6668 · Sep 12, 2008

Don't waste your time with ER experience...go to an adult ICU......SICU or Open Heart is usually considered best......ER will limit your options for where you can apply

Celicastrtrcr · Sep 13, 2008

Thanks for all of you help. This information really helps..

FutureCRNA09 · Sep 16, 2008

Don't completely discount the ED experience. Maybe get a little PRN experience there along the way as well. While the ICU experience is definitely the gold standard and invaluable, adding some ED experience just makes you that much more well rounded. The "never know what will walk in the door" experience is valuable as well. Keeps you on your toes! You may also (on occasion) have an ICU patient that is stuck in the ED without an inpatient bed. Being an experienced ICU nurse in the ED makes YOU invaluable.

srna2008 · Sep 17, 2008

Start by shadowing a CRNA to help determine if this is something you want to devote alot of time and effort to. After you get your RN, get into a busy SICU or Open Heart Unit. Get the GRE knocked out as quickly as possible and after you have met criteria, get your CCRN (all schools don't require it, but it really looks good)--studying for the CCRN is also a great prep for interviews.

good luck

spudbunny · Sep 17, 2008

Have you been accepted for the January 2009 class at bhcc or are you completing prerequisites?

Celicastrtrcr · Sep 17, 2008

Hi Spud,

I will be taking my pre-reqs at Bunker Hill. Thanks for your quick responses.

Jameslovestravel · Mar 6, 2010

How do you get through a CRNA program if you cannot work?

Jdog19s · Mar 8, 2010

loans loans loans, and lots of em

Jameslovestravel · Mar 8, 2010

I did find that there is a part time program at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. Maybe I could work two weekend shifts and do the CRNA in 39 months.