Needs CRNA information.

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Even though I'm a senior in high school, I really want to become a CRNA specializing in neurosurgical anesthesia. Yes, I understand they have a lot or responsibility but I'm certain that I can do it. But I'm confused as to what schooling they go through. I know they have to be a RN first but I'm lost after that. And I can't find very detailed information about it on the interned(I tried AANA, but I was still confused). Can someone who is an CRNA or is studying to be a CRNA tell me? :confused:

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Specializes in critcal care, CRNA.

Search the website. There is tons of info on here. When you work on your BSN you will gain greater insight. CRNA is a masters degree for now and making it a PHD program is in the works. Also, you have to work for 1-2 years in critical care before you can even apply. Most important: get A's now and do not blow off your first couple of yrs in college.

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Specializes in CRNA.

You need to become an RN, that can be accomplished with either an associate degree nursing program or a BS in nursing. If you go the associate degree route then you will need to earn a BS in either nursing or a related science. The BS in nursing (BSN) will allow you to apply to any nurse anesthesia program, while about half will also accept a BS in a related science-but you always need to be an RN.

Once you are an RN, then you need a minimum of a year in acute care. All programs will accept surgical ICU experience for this, some will accept medical ICU, pediatric ICU, ER etc. Programs with a healthy applicant pool will often give strong preference to 2-3 years ICU experience. My bias is 2 years is the minimum experience before starting an anesthesia program.

You will need to meet the science prerequisite courses which can vary between nurse anesthesia programs. Most require 2 semesters of chemistry for example, although most BSN programs only required 1 semester to earn the BSN degree. So although you have a BSN, you may need to take a course or 2 in addition. GPA is very important, especially in the sciences.

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Specializes in Nurse Anesthesia, ICU, ED.

I would suggest that you look under the sticky thread labeled "How to become a CRNA--FAQ" at the top of the main pre CRNA page.

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Okay so, I can get my BSN first without going already being a RN?

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Specializes in Nurse Anesthesia, ICU, ED.

Yes, there are 3 educational paths to obtaining your RN licensure. The diploma, associate's degree (ADN or ASN) and bachelor's degree (BSN). All have their pros and cons, which have been discussed at great length in various other threads on this site; a quick search will get you started on this topic will give you more than enough information. Regardless of the educational path you choose, all 3 will lead you to the same end point-becoming a RN.

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Specializes in CRNA.
Okay so, I can get my BSN first without going already being a RN?

Yes, typically if you go to a university nursing program it will be a BSN program. In about 4 years you complete the BSN then sit boards. Many community colleges offer associate degree nursing programs and then you can do a BSN completion program. The associate degree program apeal to those with limited resources, but can have long waiting lists. If you go the associate degree route, you can work as an RN and often get some tuition reimubusement from a hospital to help pay for your BSN. Be careful of the for profit nursing programs, they are very expensive and can have borderline programs. They can be tempting because of no waiting list and high accetance rates.

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I think it is great that you have decided at an early age! I am 27 and already have 3 kids and have just decided that I want to become a CRNA. Focus on your goal with every class and assignment in the interim and you will reach it.

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