CRNA for the older RN

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Specializes in ED, ICU, CARDIAC STEPDOWN.

I have been a RN for 12 years I have 16 months ICU but presently work in the ED for the past two years. And worked in cardiac step down unit. ( it would probably considered ICU by some hospital standards.)

I 53 now but the time I got accepted into a program and completed I will around 56. I plan to work until 70. I have a good GPA as BSN student.

Would me being a more mature student hurt my chance in being accepted to CRNA SCHOOL?

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Specializes in CRNA.

Dont let age deter you. I was in paramedic school with a guy in his 60's. He went on to be the oldest working paramedic in the state of Oklahoma and was our valedictorian for our class.

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Specializes in CVICU.

I’m finding that to be my case. I’ve got high GPAs (3.6 overall and 4.0 science), 7 years experience, and stellar LOR. I definitely feel discriminated due to my age (mid 40s). Obviously there is no way to prove it. But when younger kids with only a years worth of ICU experience are getting accepted by the handful it makes me wonder.

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Specializes in SRNA CEN CCRN-CMC.

If you’re seriously considering CRNA, you will need to move back into the ICU asap. To the poster above im not sure how much age is a factor. I have similar stats to what you’re stating and im only 33 and was also turned down by a few programs last year after interviewing. I think it’s just competitive and unfortunately the reality is every school is receiving far more qualified applicants than spots that exist.

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Your age alone shouldn't be a factor, but it may take more time than you think to get your pre-reqs together due to the amount of time you've been out of school. Most programs want classes like chemistry or statistics to be taken within the last 5 years. There's also exams like CCRN and the GRE that require a few months of studying. I have found applying to almost be a second job for a few months while gathering all of the pieces together and making sure I have all of the requirements.

I'm not trying to deter you. It can be done! Best of luck.

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