Feedback needed from CRNA/SRNA

[paul3489]

Hello fellow Nurses

I ve come to the conclusion that I want to be a CRNA ( along with hundreds of others )

I know it's competitive, I ve read countless articles, posts and school websites as far as the role and admission requirements. The conclusion is the same - I WANT IT, no matter how long it will take.

So here is where I need your feedback:

I have been in a Level 1 Trauma ED for 3 years. I know most schools don't consider that good experience for crna ( and I agree, it's like the wild wild west in the ER and you simply dont have the time know as much as an ICU rn.) I know there are a few schools that exist that take er but lets be honest with all the RNs applying that have icu experience I doubt many ER rns are making it past the interview

So my research has shown that Post Masters certificate programs do exist. Would it be a complete was of time if I pursued a Masters degree ( maybe admin or education) and the same time transfered into an ICU, work there 2 years and hopefully finish that MSN as well. I know the PMC doesnt bypass many classes but it will somewhat lighten the load when I get to anesthesia school.

I know it seems like a lot to get into a CRNA school but dont forget it's want I want, and ultimately I ll need at least 2 years in an ICU to be even somewhat competitive so why not be getting a masters as well?

so here in lies the question - is this plan totally unnecessary? are people doing this?

~~~~Clearly I need some direction any and all input is greatly appreciated! ! ! ! ~~~~

__________________*edit:

Just want to preface by saying I dont think this is going to be an easy route, I know they re not just handing out masters, and I know icu are hardworking rns! just looking for advice

[glassprn]

I worked at a level one trauma center ER for a year, then switched to CV ICU before I applied to schools.

In order to increase your chances (&for your own benefit), you definitely need ICU experience.

ER & ICU are very different, & I'm glad I have both under my belt.

Personally, I would not go for master's unless that's what I really want to do. To me, it costs too much time & money with minimal benefits.

[wtbcrna, MSN, DNP, CRNA]

I wouldn't bother with getting a Master's just to get into a post-Master's program. You should try to find a job in ICU. Then you should look to see what nurse anesthesia schools that you are interested in and see if they allow any credit transfers. Even 2-3 classes that you can transfer in can make a big difference in the over all load in nurse anesthesia school.

Now that all nurse anesthesia schools are moving to Doctorates and a minimum of a 36 month curriculum many nurse anesthesia schools are looking at front loading all the classes that are not directly related to anesthesia and allowing the SRNAs to take those courses online prior to coming to the school.

There are around 150 NA programs and you might be surprised to what lengths they go to make the transition into school as easy as possible.

[Mully]

Yes it is totally unnecessary.

If you want to get into CRNA school, this is what you do: get into the ICU, work for 6 mo. to 1 year and start applying to schools. The end. If you have good grades, interview well, have good LORs etc. etc., with 3 years of ER plus some ICU you'll be in no problem. I think you're over thinking it, in my opinion.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved to SRNA

[CPhT2RNstudent]

Don't waste your time or money doing a different masters. Get into an ICU and do overtime rather than extra school. This will get you more experience and money for school. Study for your CCRN.

[gunrock]

The upcoming fall application period is closed, but why not apply for Fall 2016 and work on transferring into an ICU.

Like you said, there are programs that will accept ED experience, so shoot a few applications out. There's no guarantee that ICU experience with land you an interview / acceptance...It might help, but if you have good grades, do well on the GRE (if required), are actively involved in your unit, etc, you should at least get interviews.

If you meet the requirements for the program I would go ahead and just apply. Don't "waste" 1-2 years working and not applying. You can do both: apply next year and try to transfer into an ICU, they are not mutually exclusive options.

Good luck.