How is CRNA really?

Here's a suggestion: when I was ready to apply I began to "shadow" the CRNA's at the hospital where I work. The department was more than willing to let me hang out in the OR with the CRNA's. They've let me participate in a lot of the process and I know have a very REALISTIC idea of what it is all about...something I never really had before. That's my suggestion to you. It's the only way to know if it's really for you or not.

Hello all,

I am a senior in nursing school and will graduate in May 08. Ever since I decided to change my major to nursing, all thru prereqs, application process, and nursing school so far, my ultimate goal has been to become a CRNA. I am one of those people who, if there is a "hardest path" or a challenge, I have to go for it. I have always been fascinated by the nervous system and anesthesia. I also desire the respect and autonomy of a CRNA. The salary doesn't hurt either. )

Here's my question: Is it boring? During my 2 rotations thru the OR, I have observed the anesthesia process. The first time, I thought it was awesome....seeing all the cool surgeries, etc. The second time, I started questioning whether it would hold my attention. I know that I should shadow a CRNA to see for myself, but wondering what others throught about this. Any CRNA's or SRNA"s that can give me some insight?

I talked to my hubby about this. Of course, he says that for the salary CRNA's earn, I can stand to be bored. HAHA! I somewhat agree. After all, the lifestyle it would afford would allow me to find interesting activities outside of work. ) What do ya'll think??

First and foremost, become an outstanding ICU RN. Then when you have at least a year of autonomous practice (orientation should not count in my book.), reconsider your opinion of the truly great responsibility that will be placed on your shoulders as a CRNA. You alone are accountable for your actions- no physician, instructor, charge nurse, just you. You decide to transfuse, medicate, intervene, cancel cases, place lines, interpret all data presented (labs YOU have ordered, vitals etc.) and decide treatment for these data. The desire to be a CRNA has to become a burning one, because once you have passed all the hurdles of getting in to school... the real work begins and does not stop. I have no doubt that the CRNA/SRNA's you talk to do not regret the decision for a moment, the respect and autonomy they enjoy was earned by them and fought for by greats in our field. You say after two visits to the OR, you were afraid of "boring". I submit to you that with the skill and knowlege of the practitioners you observed, administering the most deadly agents in all the medical world, they made it seem easy.

To make an analogy as to the money:

A baseball player who hits .300 is considered a legend. If an anesthesia provider is batting .950 with every hit being a home run (live patient), they are a disgrace and have destroyed lives.(5% mortality would be intolerable) Now,the baseball player is paid how much?

I don't write to discourage you, but to let you know the seriousness of the profession. With all this you will find CRNA's to be the most fun people in the world (work hard/play hard types)

Thank you for your insight. I don't mean to make it sound like it's all about the money, it's not, and I do understand the seriousness of the profession. That's why I'm trying to get a better insight to decide if it is right for me.

You are right that the anesthesia providers make it look easy, and I'm sure I only saw one side of their job. Perhaps "boring" wasn't right word, but maybe "repetitive". Your reply gives me a better understanding of the other aspects of the profession. I do plan to "shadow" a CRNA after I get out on the floor. I'm sure I'll have a better understanding at that point.

Thanks again.