CRNA Lifestyle Details

[Birmingham, RN]

The purpose of this post is to inquire about life after graduation from CRNA school. I am currently an ICU RN, BSN and planning on applying to schools in the next 1-2 years. However, I would most appretiate information from those who have already established careers as CRNA's. I understand that working conditions and hours vary depending on the area of employment and employment setting, however any information your are willing to share is appreciated.

-Is 2 - 2 1/2 years of ICU experience (350+ bed hospital, level II trauma) enough in your opininon to give someone a strong background for entering school?

-What kind of hours do you work? Do you find that yourself and fellow co-workers take a lot of call time?

-Is your lifestyle condusive to having a family?

-My husband and I are planning on having kids in 7-9 years; how is motherhood and being a CRNA? Is there such a thing as part time in this field (without losing your skills)? CRNA school is difficult and the path to get in has also been quite a journey -- I want to work full time for awhile but then settle down and have 4-5 kids while working part time.

-My number one pick for CRNA school is Gonzaga in Spokane, WA. Any alumni out there who can tell me what there experience was like? Did you like the education component of the program?

Thanks everyone!