BSN to CRNA Suggestions/Necessities

[mirandaaa]

Hello,

I have a long ways to go here, but I'd like to get an idea of what I'm looking at for the future.

I'm currently in the process of applying to the ASN program at my school. I plan on going to a university after I obtain my ASN and do a bridge from ASN to BSN (my school does not offer BSN).

My mother has her BSN and she lives in Kansas. She was going to interview to get into the CRNA program there and was telling me that she was studying and there were so many things that she had forgotten about since it had been so long since she was in nursing school.

I'm also interested in becoming a CRNA at some point but I'm wondering:

Is it easier to apply for the CRNA program immediately after nursing school while all the information is still fresh, or is it better to work the field and get some experience first?

How does the CRNA process work? Is there an application and interview in every state or does it vary?

Like I said, I've got a good probably 3 years before I can even consider that stage, but I like knowing what to look forward to.

Thank you!

[guest769224]

Hey, I will offer what I can.

Every CRNA school requires a minimum of 1 year of working in the ICU as a nurse. You will be up against applicants that have anywhere from 3-10+ years in the ICU. So, you're first step is to become a new graduate RN into the ICU if possible. To do this, apply to residencies and be willing to relocate. Or you can try to get a job as a tech in the ICU, and see if they will take you as a new grad. I have done the latter for myself.

Once you get into the ICU, work on getting your BSN while obtaining experience and learning how to rock intensive care. To be a successful CRNA, you will need to know the in's and out's of hemodynamic monitoring, and how to manage very sick patients.

Each school will have different requirements for admission. You will need to apply and interview for each one. They base acceptance off of things such as: GPA, interaction with peers, leadership/councils/committees while practicing as an RN, your response to scenario questions, and how high of quality ICU experience you are presenting with.

Ideally, look to work in an ICU in a Level 1 trauma center hospital, and obtain your CCRN (critical care registered nurse). These are not required, but they will look impressive to the admissions crew.

Also, please be aware that every CRNA program nationwide will transition to a DNP (doctorate) by January, 2022.

Good luck on getting into nursing school. The path to becoming a CRNA is a rigorous one, but you are already taking the correct steps by researching how to get there, and by beginning an RN program.

[Bluebolt]

I'm getting my applications together for CRNA school myself and I agree with what ICUman said. It's good advice and good luck to you, it looks like you've got about 5 more years of preparation but you'll get there soon enough!

[mirandaaa]

ICUman and Bluebolt,

Thank you both for your input! I definitely have a ways to go but I'm glad to have gotten some advice!