Motivators

[loisane]

What motivates a nurse to become a CRNA? I'm sure there are a lot of factors. People want more autonomy, respect, the chance to have a bigger impact on their patients' care. Then, of course, there is THE MONEY.

For many working CRNAs, being an anesthetist means working longer shifts, more call, and working far more hours than they ever did as an RN. Those aren't really the motivating reasons that led them to become CRNAs, but since it is a part of the job, they manage. But I think many will tell you, it isn't the money that keeps them going. It is the pure love of the profession.

I see quite a bit of discussion about salaries on this board. That makes sense, salaries are something to consider anytime you are considering such a change. And we all want to get paid what we are worth. I sure don't send my paycheck back every week.

But I worry that some RNs are being seduced by the big salaries. I am afraid all some people see are the dollar signs. I don't mean anyone in particular. And I don't even mean just here on this board. This is just a trend I have noticed in general since CRNA salaries have really skyrocketed the last few years.

I guess I just want to raise a little note of caution to the RNs here considering anesthesia. Not to be a wet blanket, we need all the CRNAs we can get. I am not one of those CRNAs that thinks too many graduates makes for too much job competition (a ridiculous concept, but some people feel that way). I would like to see us graduate many more SRNAs every year.

But if the main thing that draws you to anesthesia is the money, please reconsider your motivation. Believe me, it won't be enough to sustain you. Anesthesia school is the hardest thing you will ever do. Giving anesthesia is the most challenging job you will ever have. And the biggest thrill you will ever feel, if you love doing it. People who are only in it for the money end up being miserable. I simply want to encourage people to look at the big picture, and consider all the factors.

Maybe others can comment on what motivates them. My motivation is the complexity of anesthesia. There is constant challenge. I love that aspect of it.

loisane crna

[jewelcutt]

I enjoy reading everyone's postings because we all seem to have the same thoughts. When I first heard of CRNS's I didn't even know of the salary. I'm an adrenaline junkie also, I love the rush in the ICU of a code. What I really admire about CRNA's(I've followed many of them) is how calm they are. No matter what is going on, they do things quickly, precisely, and with an air of huge respnsibility. Of course these are things that come over time, I like being under control during critical situations with my patients.

every CRNA I've spoken to loves the job, and always says it's worth it. So if you're motivated like I am, the money is a sweet bonus to a wonderful career.

[g8rlimey]

Jenni,

Quote: "I enjoy reading everyone's postings because we all seem to have the same thoughts. "

One of the most profound statements I heard was made by one of the members of this board that I had the pleasure to talk to in person---"When you get to school you realize you are part of a group of people who think about things much the same way." And I have really found that to be true, especially those friends of mine that have gone off to school or who are about to go, we all think very much alike.

The money is definitely a factor for me, but the largest denominator is the ability for autonomy that this profession affords someone with experience. My plan is to work at a large facility or for a group at several large facilities for 3-5 years to get a good handle on the "art" of anesthesia then move on to a more autonomous area of practice--wherever that may be.