New CRNA Grad to independent practice???

[Ava's mom]

I was just curious if any of you practicing CRNA's started your career without supervision in an independent practice or know someone who did this? I am just wondering b/c I am looking at the possibility of joining a rural independent practice upon graduation. This practice has 4 CRNA's (no MDA's) and serves a small 30,000 population college town.

The hospital has approximately 50 beds and there is a brand new ambulatory surgery center as well. There is a lot of call involved as you might imagine, occasional trauma, and emergency surgeries. I used to work as a tech in the ER of this facility and know the area well (have family there, etc.). The current group of CRNA's are all well seasoned with greater than 10 years or more a piece. They are all really cool and very helpful. They also have a small pain practice which I would really like to do as well. I shadowed with the group several times and know them from previous employment (as stated earlier). Personality wise, I feel I would be a good match with this group.

Is this unrealistic as a new grad? I would love some input!!!

Thanks!!!!

[gaspassah]

i think some questions to ask are,

are you going to be a hosp emp or group emp or are you independant contractor.

i dont think you can get Liability Insurance without 5 years practice (this is for an independant contractor)

how much are you gonna have to rely on your own skills verses having someone nearby when you are working. most ppl will say get at least 2 years in a large practice to hone your skills before independant practice.

just some thoughts

d

[deepz]

....most ppl will say get at least 2 years in a large practice to hone your skills before independant practice......

Before SOLO practice, is my recollection of the gist of that prefious thread. With 4 seasoned CRNAs as your co-workers and mentors you should have smooth sailing.

deepz

[gaspassah]

Before SOLO practice, is my recollection of the gist of that prefious thread.

like i said, HOW independant is the question.

There is a lot of call involved as you might imagine, occasional trauma, and emergency surgeries

this made it sound like you would be relying alot on your own skills with little backup.

d

[Ava's mom]

To answer some of your questions...

During call you are the only one there unless there are two cases, etc. During regular OR hours there are many resources with the other CRNA's. You cover OB and surgery while on call. This is why I am wondering if it is unrealistic. The head CRNA stated that help is never more than a phone call away (and a quick drive).

I would be part of a group and not an indepentent contractor.

Hope this helps.

Also, we don't do any major planned vascular surgery, no neuro or hearts, lots of ortho, some GYN and general surgeries.

[athomas91]

i think a blanket statement of NO or YES isn't appropriate...

i guess the question is - how comfortable are you with your practice and do you have complete confidence you could handle anything coming your way??

[crna29]

Judgment comes from experience, good judgment comes from both good and bad experiences. IMO it might behoove you to get a little experience in a more controlled arena before flying solo. "A phone call away" can be an eternity when things are spiraling out of control. Maybe 6 months or a year in a setting with immediate backup until you gain some confidence prior to leaving the nest. Whatever you choose - best of luck, your program has taught you safety first so you'll do fine - it's the feeling fine you're lookign for! :chuckle