Published Sep 16, 2010
qh74
10 Posts
Hi
I'm a first year student at McGill School of Nursing, my class just started a few weeks ago and I'm already very anxious about the future. I want to become a nurse anesthetist, but apparently the program is only offered in the US and I need to have some years of experience as a registered nurse first. Anyway, I would like to know much more about this career; what's the outlook, requirements, salary, etc.
By the way, what other choice do I have to get a highly paid job?
Thank you so much~
canesdukegirl, BSN, RN
1 Article; 2,543 Posts
If your track is to be a CRNA, you must have at least 2 years of critical care nursing in order to qualify for CRNA school. I would suggest going to an ICU, preferably a CTICU position. After that, you will be able to apply for CRNA school. Make sure that you get some good references and that you have a high GPA when you graduate.
In my state, the CRNA's are paid about 130,000 starting. It is a difficult, laborious route to get there, but from what I hear from my CRNA friends, they would not do anything differently, and are very happy doing what they do.
I considered doing CRNA, and I got a "Baby Miller", which is a text on the fundamentals of anesthesia. It is good reading, and will let you know what to expect on a basic level.
Go for your dream, and keep your focus on your goal!
Thank you for all the suggestions~ But as a student studying for bachelor, should I take some extra courses that might be useful when I apply for crna?
Chinook2
45 Posts
Here are some links covering nurse anesthetist/anesthesia assistant in Canada (some specific to Ontario).
Nursing Careers: Becoming a Nurse Anesthetist in Canada York Nursing News
Government of Ontario, Canada - News
You Asked Us: Administering anethesia
Anesthesia Assistant