krzysiu

I think we are in a unique time. I don't think standards have changed, but number of applicants may have gone up, thus leading to "harder to get in" in recent times. A great number of people are gravitating toward nursing because despite of what is going on nurses are still working. That being said, I think it does take a certain type of individual to remain a nurse. All my classmates had past lives and came from various professional backgrounds but several are no longer nursing (a significant number given the fact that my class wasn't exactly huge). What I do find interesting, however, is after speaking to the director of my anesthesia program, it seems like the applicant pool is down for anesthesia programs in the area. I have a friend in another program and they also accepted 3 less people than their usual number because less people are applying. I think it has gotten SO bad that if someone does have a job, they are less willing to jump ship and pursue something else. Also, I think people are in panic mode that how will I get by without working?? is running through people's minds. Another thing to think about, is, are people less likely to get personal loans to keep their head above water? Is it a combo of all this? Who knows, but scary none the less. I did Loyola's accelerated program. Did it keep you busy? Sure it did, but it wasn't bad at all. I worked and had a wonderful social life. NOTHING like the anesthesia program. No work and no life at all. Good luck, you'll be fine!

Glad I could help. Because, like I said, I had to jump through some hoops to get into the O.R. myself. You may want to hit up your manager to try and set something up. However, sometimes it's a good idea not to let no one know what your intentions are. What I personally did was, I contacted the director of the anesthesia department myself. The group at my old hospital did not work for the hospital per say, but once they knew my intent they were more than happy to help me out. Call your hospital directory or just take a walk to the PACU and ask around and find out who is in charge/director of anesthesia etc. Get their contact information and politely introduce yourself and definitely let them know you work in the hospital. Let them know you're extremely interested in pursuing a career in anesthesia and would be very grateful if you can shadow a member of the group: MD or CRNA. The head MD at my place was big into teaching and very CRNA friendly. They are usually pretty receptive at that point. One, it's a teaching facility and two they are always looking for good people and are quite encouraging of your pursuits. All the best and good luck...