NICU/PICU acceptable?

Published

Is adult ICU required prior to CRNA or is NICU/PICU acceptable?

I want to work at the local childrens hospital during and after my undergraduate studies and have ambitions set on being a CRNA but I don't want to mess anything up for myself in the future by making the wrong choice now.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in SICU, NICU, CVICU.

You can look at the sites for each school online to determine this. Many of the schools specifically state that PACU or ER is not acceptable. Many NICUs do not work with the hemodynamic monitoring that CRNA schools are looking for. Same with vent management. Getting your feet wet with some S-G catheters and multiple drip titrations would be a good idea. If you have narrowed-down your search to a handful of schools, you could even contac the Director and get feedback from them about your experience being acceptable for entrance or not. Regards, :smilecoffeecup:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in MICU & SICU.

I think like the pervious post has stated check with the directors at the programs that you feel that you would be applying to. Your best bet is to stick with the adults to get the best experience and the best chance to get in.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in SICU, NICU, CVICU.

Of course, that is not to say that your NICU experience is a waste, either! Because you will spend time around peds and L&D as a student, so you may be less intimidated than many other SNAs and more familiar with the drugs and dosages! Blessings, :smilecoffeeIlovecof

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in PICU.

I got into school with only PICU experience. It can be done. I have seen several others leave here to go directly to anesthesia school, as well. We don't do post cardiac or swan gantz. It just means more studying in the program. I have seen new grads with minimal experience go from the PICU to CRNA.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion