I have a BS degree in another field and would like to ultimately become a CRNA. Where should I start? Is it best to go first for RN or NP and which one would be better for the cause? (not exactly clear on the specific differences..). Also, I'm thinking once the RN/NP completed, best would be to work in an as diverse field as possible (ICU?) for couple years and then go for CRNA which, maybe and hopefully by then can be sponsored by my employer..Does that sound like a viable plan? Any advice is much appreciated, thanks!
loveanesthesia 854 Posts Specializes in CRNA. Jan 7, 2009 An accelerated BSN would be the fastest, but that's if your prior degree meets all the pre-req's for the Accelerated program. An accelerated BSN is a 12 month program designed for people with prior BS degrees, and is very intensive. If you have a science degree with good grades it's a good option. Many CRNA students have gone this route. Another option would be to get an Associate Degree RN, many nurse anesthesia programs will accept BS degrees other than the BSN. They take a little longer, but are often less expensive. Once you pass boards, are an RN, get 2 years experience in a busy ICU. Then you can see if you like the intensity of the ICU and want to go on the a nurse anestheia program. By NP do you mean Nurse Practitioner? That's another type of Advanced Practice Nurse, also requireing a graduate degree after a BSN. Good-Luck
perkizme 102 Posts Jan 8, 2009 Look at the how to become a CRNA, FAQ thread on this site. An NP is an advanced practice nurse - which requires graduate level schooling for the experienced RN. You would need to find an RN (nursing) program and then work on (specifically) ICU experience before CRNA school.
NiteyNite 30 Posts Specializes in Critical Care. Jan 8, 2009 Check out www.aana.com as well. That's the national body for CRNA's and there is a lot of good information there such as what CRNA's do, what their scope of practice is, how to be one, etc.... There's a drop down menu on the left I believe it says "becoming a CRNA."
Summitk2 145 Posts Specializes in CVICU, CCRN, now SRNA. Jan 11, 2009 I would do your pre-reqs for nursing school, then a 1 year accelerated BSN. Then get your critical care experience (I suggest at least 2 years). And finally, get in to anesthesia school. You could probably get to that point within 3-4 years, depending on how many nursing pre-reqs you need, if you can get directly into critical care, and how long it takes you to get into anesthesia school.Good luck!
gasmaster 521 Posts Apr 22, 2009 don't forget that if u think in the future you may want your DNP or DNAP you will need a BS in nursing not a AAS.
2bJoshRN9788 104 Posts Apr 24, 2009 ever think about taking prereqs for anesthesiologists assistant school? any trouble with this path is that they can't work in a lot of states.
