Planning for CRNA

[yjsheen]

Seeking some advice here! I am planning my education/career path!

I got accepted to multiple ABSN programs: GW, Emory, Rush, Drexel, and waitlisted at Hopkins. Few of the schools, I would graduate with BSN degree and the other with MSN degree. I want to eventually go into CRNA program. I cannot decide which program I would go for. Whether it matters if you have BSN or MSN as fresh grad? I am debating whether to attend a BSN program that would be shorter (11-15 mos) then work the min 1-2 yrs for CRNA programs then go to CRNA school or attend MSN program for longer (24mos) then still have to work the min yrs of experience for CRNA program, but have that MSN Clinical Nurse Leader title. Also I wonder if more well-known schools have advantage in the future for me? HELP HERE, as I need to pay my non-refundable deposit soon!!

[RicRock, MSN, CRNA]

Get your BSN anywhere and work in a large, high-acuity, ICU. What you learn there is more important than anything else.

[loveanesthesia]

Go to the shorter BSN program and get high quality work experience.

[stevena9]

I’d echo going the shorter BSN route and working in a large ICU somewhere. However, I think prospective CRNA students need to get out of the mindset of ”minimum experience” necessary. Focus on completing your BSN with really good grades, get into the ICU, pay attention and learn all you can, and after 2-3 years reassess yourself (or even if you still want anesthesia) and go from there. Good luck!

[Asherah, BSN, RN]

2 hours ago, stevena9 said:

I’d echo going the shorter BSN route and working in a large ICU somewhere. However, I think prospective CRNA students need to get out of the mindset of ”minimum experience” necessary. Focus on completing your BSN with really good grades, get into the ICU, pay attention and learn all you can, and after 2-3 years reassess yourself (or even if you still want anesthesia) and go from there. Good luck!

Yes, so much this. I can't agree more. If someone is focused on the minimum necessary to do anything in healthcare, I worry about their drive and purpose.

[BigPappaCRNA]

It simply does not matter, even a little bit, where you get your BSN.

Perhaps, the one caveat to this, is if you are considering a CRNA program that is housed in the same SON as your BSN program. I suppose that could be quite helpful, as long as you do well.