ICU experience (for CRNA prep)

[Ryan-Roseman-SJ-ABSN]

Hi All,

I'm starting an ABSN 17 month program at Roseman University in Utah next month. I have no experience in nursing (only a CNA cert class with clinicals).

I realize this is probably fairly subjective, but how likely is it to be able to get an ICU position soon after graduating? How long on average do you think it takes to get there upon graduating with the BSN?

I'm looking to get the experience for CRNA school sometime down the road. Of course, I'll see if that is the route I go...maybe I'll want to take the NP route.

Thanks!

Ryan

[guest769224]

Consider applying for the U of U's critical care internship program for new grads, or to Intermountain's ICU residency for new grads.

You contract for 1-2 years, which is a good thing because that's the minimum amount of ICU experience you need to apply for CRNA school.

I worked as an ICU tech in Utah while in nursing school and feel like that helped me get a job in ICU as a new grad. However there are plenty of grads with no tech experience hired into critical care as well.

Make sure to keep your GPA as high as you can during your program. Average anesthesia applicants have a 3.4 and above.

[Ryan-Roseman-SJ-ABSN]

Thanks for the tips! The GPA has me worried since Roseman University just has a pass/fail grading system. You have to get >90% to pass courses. They say something about writing up a 4.0 transcript if grades need to be shown, but their grading system has me concerned for grad programs. I'll be sure to look into that prior to orientation.