how to prep for anesthesia

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Hello everyone, I'm kinda new to this site, I just wanna quickly say that this site is the best and that I've learned sooo much just from all of your experiences.

Ok, my question is basically, how do I prep for anesthesia school. I'm currently working toward my undergrad (I'm not even in a BSN program yet, but I'm planning for the future, faaaaar future). I think I read that O-chem would be good. What about other sciences. I'm planning to take gen chem, ochem, and physics. Are there any others that I should consider?

What is a pre organic chemistry class? A pre organic chemistry class should be called general chemistry 1 and 2 and they should go into substantial detail regarding are good friends Boyle and Charles. If you take an Anatomy and Physiology class you should spend adequate time learning about Fick's law of diffusion.

Pre-organic chem class was general chem 1&2. I've taken an overview course in orgo and biochem.

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Why is it that nurses continually tell other nurses not to take a class unless it is required. Nurse anesthesia is grounded in scientific principles and a strong core science background should be mandatory. It is the possession of a strong science base that allows one to not only comprehend the big picture but to truly understand the subtle nuances and the ART of anesthesia. Physics and organic chemistry are core sciences and fundamental building blocks in understanding scientific knowledge such as physiology & pharmokinetics.

in response..... most bacc. degree nursing programs already require at least 2 chem courses along with physics etc.. I cannot speak for other programs - so i will speak only of mine - My program has a VERY strong chemistry component - one of our tests asked us to name over 15 chemical structures (and we weren't told about this prior to exam) - so i feel that i speak from experience. there is absolutely no reason to spend 800$/credit on a course that isn't specifically needed. it is a waste of resource and time. that time would be more appropriately spent learning your anesthetic drugs in and out. I completely agree that an understanding of these is important - but they are taught in your anesthesia courses! So again - I ask, why spend the extra money and time?

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another word...

in anesthesia class (that i have already spent more than enough money on) - we learned more gas laws and physics than my friends that did take those classes and regret doing so.

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Why is it that nurses continually tell other nurses not to take a class unless it is required. Nurse anesthesia is grounded in scientific principles and a strong core science background should be mandatory. It is the possession of a strong science base that allows one to not only comprehend the big picture but to truly understand the subtle nuances and the ART of anesthesia. Physics and organic chemistry are core sciences and fundamental building blocks in understanding scientific knowledge such as physiology & pharmokinetics.

As a profession do we want to be technicians in anesthesia or do we want to be professional anesthesia providers. Our Anesthesiologist and AA colleagues are required to take these core science classes, shouldn't we? As our profession evolves, so should our educational requirements. We moved to the Masters degree for this reason and we should move to requiring more core sciences as well.

I totally agree! I took lots of classes in undergrad that have helped me in the classroom part of anesthesia school: 2 semesters of chemistry, 2 semester of organic chemistry, genetics, micro, patho, etc. All basic science classes that you take will help form a stronger base for your nursing knowledge to grow on.

If there are anesthesia schools that you are interested in, you should look at their requirements and stipulations to know what classes are required or suggested. This will help direct you when you choose science classes to take.

Hope this helps:)

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I think you all have some good points. Education is never a bad thing, and will always help to enhance your practice. Unfortunately, most of us do not have unlimited time and financial resources, so we have to choose what we spend our time and money on. Obviously, there are differences of opinion on the most efficient and best way to reach the goal of becoming a good CRNA, just as there are many different types of learners. Some people just love school!

As far as CRNAs being professionals vs technicians, I think that any accredited program in this country will turn out very effective and professional providers.

I believe the initial post was from someone who isn't even in a BSN program yet, so I'd echo the advice not to worry about O-chem quite yet, and focus on doing well at your BSN. Of couse, if you're exceptionally smart and can get As in your nursing classes with a hand tied behind your back...then go for it!!!

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Of couse, if you're exceptionally smart and can get As in your nursing classes with a hand tied behind your back...then go for it!!!

Doesn't everybody? :rotfl:

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Thanks for all your comments and opinions. I appreciate the support and guidance from the members of this board :) . Aloha, B.

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