CRNA, skipping the ICU?

TakeTwoAspirin, MSN, RN, APRN · Dec 31, 2011

Thre is a CRNA forum that you could post this under - see APN yellow tab at top of the page. On the whole though I think most of the schools, or at least the reputable ones, really do want the critical care experience. You can always PRN in the OR to keep your skills up, but I understand OR people are reluctant to give up the OR. Good luck.

Trauma Columnist · Dec 31, 2011

Let me move this to the pre-CRNA forum.

Most programs do require ICU nursing and the reason is because you need the ICU environment of caring for multiple vasopressors, high acuity and the ability to care for the critically ill at the bedside.

manusko · Dec 31, 2011

Vaguely pondering pursuing CRNA. Do you absolutely NEED CCRN and ICU experience? I don't want to have to leave the OR! If there is a more appropriate forum in which to post this, or has been asked before, please direct me. thanks!

Most schools are now requiring 2 years critical care experience, which I can not see an OR nursing achieving. If you want to stay in the OR then I would look at RFA or maybe NP school. If you really want to be a CRNA I would find a ICU job or equivalent per your desired school.

ckh23, BSN, RN · Dec 31, 2011

Most schools require critical care experience, although there are a few that accept ER and PACU. I think you should really decide if CRNA is something you want to do before switching. I would also recommend shadowing and ICU nurse for a shift and get a glimpse of what ICU nursing is like. Also talk to CRNA's and pick their brain.

lrobinson5 · Dec 31, 2011

ckh23 is right. I have never seen a place accept OR experience. There is the occasional school that accepts ER/PACU but nearly all of them require ICU experience (and they are picky about which type of ICU, usually has to be adult in order for it to count).

allnurses Guide · Dec 31, 2011

Vaguely pondering pursuing CRNA. Do you absolutely NEED CCRN and ICU experience? I don't want to have to leave the OR! If there is a more appropriate forum in which to post this, or has been asked before, please direct me. thanks!

The Council of Accreditation for Nurse Anesthetists mandates that applicants have a minimum of 1yr of acute care experience before starting nurse anesthesia school. OR nursing does not generally meet that requirement.