Pre-CRNA student question.

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I'm actually not sure where to post this, so sorry if it is in the wrong thread. I am currently an ADN-BSN dual enrollment program. In this program I will graduate with my associates a couple of semesters before I get my bachelors, so I will be able to start working as an RN much sooner. Now, my question is this: I ultimately want to become a nurse anesthetist, and all of the programs require one or two years of experience in an critical care before they can apply for CRNA school. If I find a job with my associates, and the experience under my belt by the time I have completed my bachelors, can I apply straight away to these schools? From what I have read on their requirement pages, they only say you have to have the experience and have your bachelors, but not specifically that the experience has to be acquired after you get your BSN. My education is not the traditional though, so I'm just not sure how this works. I have emailed several CRNA schools to ask, but they are all currently on vacation for the holiday, and I'm anxious to get some answers. Thank you!

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

Welcome to AN! The largest online nursing community!

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Specializes in Anesthesia, Critical Care.

You can apply at anytime as long as you will have your BSN before the start of the program and one year of ICU experience. There are a few select icu's that many schools don't accept. Neo natal is some times one of these for example. There are many threads here on how to get in, and what you need to do. If you have more questions, we will be glad to help. Welcome to all nurses.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, ICU.

Your ICU experience counts regardless of when you obtain your BSN. As previously mentioned, not all ICUs are accepted at all programs, so make sure you understand the requirements of any school you are interested in. Also keep in my kind that the critical care requirements on websites are the minimum, not necessarily the average accepted. More often than not the average accepted applicant has 2-4(+) years experience in a high acquity adult ICU. Those who are accepted with the minimum experience required often have other areas in their application that make them stand out.

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