NICU Nurse wanting to become a CRNA!

[babynurse06]

Hello all, I'm thinking about going to CRNA school but notice that a lot of them don't even accept NICU experience. Just wondering if any NICU nurses have gotten into school and found it really difficult because of working mostly with adults in school. Also I was talking to some schools and they said it would help to get certified. Should I take the CCRN or the RNC?? I know that the RNC is more recognized in the neonatal community but for this purpose would the CCRN be more recognized???

Plus if anyone has any input on schools that are neonatal friendly I'd appreciate it!

THANKS!!!

[jfk6668]

If your eally want to do it....why not go to an adult ICU......it would open up the option of going to many more schools.....

[jls189]

Below is a post from an earlier thread. Hope this helps. Originally posted by SOMEI within the past few months or so.

"I am in my second year of CRNA school, and my primary critical care experience is NICU (10 yrs). However, at the time I applied to the program I was working in an adult ICU (1 yr with adults before starting school).

I also found that I was the only one in my class that had a clue about pediatrics/OB (who carry their own set of high risks for anesthesia).

I definitely found my adult experience to be helpful. I also believe my NICU experience along with the fact that I stepped out of my "comfort zone" to do adults was an asset during my interview. Let's face it, sometimes the "comfort zone" is shaken up a bit and be able to readily adapt and think on your feet is key in providing anesthesia.

I don't know if you will get in based on your NICU experience alone. However, I do know it is an asset and that you want to "stand out" in your interview from those beside you. Everyone will have outstanding grades in undergrad, since it is a requirement, as well as critical care experience. You want to show what YOU will also bring to the program."

Hope this previous post helps. You might want to call the school you ar interested in and ask them what they think. I'm currently cross training a girl (that worked NICU) to the adult med-surg ICU. That is why she crossed over to adults b/c she wants to go back to CRNA school. Hope this info. helps. I'm sure others will apply to your post. Good luck!!!

[Nacki, MSN, NP]

Babynurse06,

I'm strickly adults and don't know much about peds/neonates, but I do know that of all the schools I have looked at they do strongly suggest CCRN certification. If you got your RNC, that would look good too since they like seeing certifications. You need to get your PALS for sure, which I'm sure you already have. I think a good base would be: CCRN, ACLS,BLS, PALS and whatever certification you specialize in, All the requirements of school certifications in addition to two (CCRN and your specialty certification)