Need a little critique of my plan...

Screen name · Apr 26, 2014

I have a few questions to better understand...

They way I see it you'll have 1 year CCU and 1 year ICU experience when you apply - are these at a level 1? What type of ICU is it?

Which of the courses listed are you taking to offset lower grades in the past? It would be nice to see some graduate level chemistry courses - these would weigh more and show you have "grown" in your education as opposed to retaking undergraduate classes.

What do you believe sets you apart from the other candidates? GPA? GRE? Certifications? Experience? References? Shadowing?

It's usually a view of the complete picture that gains you acceptance. You're on the right track. In those areas you lack, you need to make up for in others. Why stop at CCRN? Why not get the TNCC, CSC, CMC, etc.? You have some cardiac background that it might be applicable to. If not those, what other certifications can you get within your area? Your GRE can help offset a lower GPA, as can taking one or two graduate courses instead of 4 or 5 undergrad courses. Strong references can help you if you have less experience than others applying - if a program wants 3 references, send them 4 - only if they are all strong and not half-assed. People often forget how important shadowing is. Everyone can shadow once... but what about 2 or 3 different CRNA's at different hospitals?

Hope that helps. Just keep in mind anyone can apply, but not everyone gets in. I never thought I'd get in!

kbl7td · Apr 27, 2014

They are not level one, but I've dealt extensively with drips. Just now starting hearts, had one swan so far, but apparently they aren't used a whole lot. Most of the time they are off the vent in 6 hours and cortis removed in 24. Had a bunch of experience with vents so far.

I'll have TNCC next week, I take GRE this week. I will do my CSC once I get my CCRN.

I am retaking the chems for a higher grade because I haven't had chem since 09. I will be able to get good references from my manager and patient care administrator.

I have shadowed for 8 hours, and can shadow again whenever I want, I just need to find the time!

Screen name · Apr 28, 2014

Perfect. I wouldn't be too worried. You'll more than likely get interviews.

kbl7td · May 1, 2014

Took the GRE today sick as a dog, cough, nose, throat, sinuses are trashed. 298. 154v 144q. Haven't had algebra since HS and did no GRe review, with a little review and math 310 shouldn't be a problem.

sweetdreame, BSN, RN · May 2, 2014

If I were you I would beef up those Chemistry classes a bit. Why take "Introductory" and "Elementary" Chemistry when you could be taking inorganic I and II and Organic I and II or even Biochemistry. I understand that you want a refresher course, but both of those classes sound pretty basic. I am honestly not sure the difference between Intro and Elementary.

I was fortunate to have a rigorous interview experience where I got to really show off my knowledge. If any of your schools have more than a basic 10 minute interview I would recommend brushing up on CCRN material and really knowing those drips (receptors, MOA, etc.), vent management, ABG interpretation, narcs/paralytic/sedatives, and anything else you might feel is relevant.

You NEED to do GREAT on the GRE. That will help redeem your low GPA.

Also, I know this wasn't really part of your question, but I would also take Wolford off the list. Just my humble opinion.

Good luck!

kbl7td · May 5, 2014

If I were you I would beef up those Chemistry classes a bit. Why take "Introductory" and "Elementary" Chemistry when you could be taking inorganic I and II and Organic I and II or even Biochemistry. I understand that you want a refresher course, but both of those classes sound pretty basic. I am honestly not sure the difference between Intro and Elementary.
I was fortunate to have a rigorous interview experience where I got to really show off my knowledge. If any of your schools have more than a basic 10 minute interview I would recommend brushing up on CCRN material and really knowing those drips (receptors, MOA, etc.), vent management, ABG interpretation, narcs/paralytic/sedatives, and anything else you might feel is relevant.
You NEED to do GREAT on the GRE. That will help redeem your low GPA.
Also, I know this wasn't really part of your question, but I would also take Wolford off the list. Just my humble opinion.
Good luck!

The GRE is no problem, I should be able to score over a 315 with ease, probably higher.

I will try to look into higher level chems, it is hard however to find chems that are self paced, upper level and don't cost an arm and a leg.

Why take Wolford off the list? I've read contradicting info everywhere.

sweetdreame, BSN, RN · May 14, 2014

Google Wolford CRNA lawsuits. I am pretty sure students have had to result to taking legal action to the abuse they have received. Also, it is considered a CRNA mill, pumping out a large number of CRNAs with questionable skills and qualifications.

I have no personal experience, so I'm not interested in a debate with a Wolford graduate. But, I have done research and listened around the CRNA community. The paragraph above seems to be the general consensus.

The point is, you don't just want to get into CRNA school, you want to be a good anesthesia provider. Which school will get you there?

Screen name · May 15, 2014

^^ I love that I'm not the only one who "just wanted to get into CRNA school". Great thoughts.