Jaybird

You are doing the right thing by asking! It is a good idea to read that first thread. When I was starting nursing school, I had the same goal of becoming a crna, and now that I'm in anesthesia school I can hardly believe it! While in nursing school, I always kept it in the back of my mind. When I didn't feel like studying, I would motivate myself by believing I needed an "A" to get into anesthesia school. I also made sure to take a statistics class. I wrote papers about pain management and crna issues whenever I could chose the topic. I also went right into ICU as a new grad (don't let everyone tell you it's a bad idea - many people do it with no problem). I would also email the anesthesia schools you are interested in attending and ask for admission info. That way you can know exactly what you will need in the future! And shadow a crna if you haven't already. Then you can see exactly what you're getting into. Good Luck and study hard! Jay:cool:

Well, the first two days of clinical are over and I'm still alive! Overall I'd say it went quite well. I did a lot of charting, pushing meds (except induction), and LOTS OF LISTENING AND LEARNING!!! My patients were morbidly obese so I didn't get to try intubating yet, maybe tomorrow. I learned so much my head is spinning. Unfortunatly, as stated in other posts, I can already see how it will be difficult to work with different crna's when each one does certain things differently. It is similar to ICU nurses who each have their own pet peeves, so I hope I can adapt. The little notebook is a good idea, I have been writing down not only preferences, but also certain concepts or meds I need to review (not to mention my locker combination!) Good Luck to everyone - We WILL get through this!! Jay

Tomorrow is my first day of clinicals in anesthesia school! I have these mixed emotions of excitement and pure terror. Can anyone share some stories to make me laugh? I know the CRNAs and MDAs will not expect a whole lot from me on my first day, but that does little to ease my anxiety. I've never really worked in the O.R. before, but I hear it can be quite intimidating. Any words of Wisdom?

Thanks for the suggestions. I have considered the army reserve, but I'm not sure the military is right for me. We'll see what happens. Too bad I couldn't have found a rich husband to support me!

Can anyone tell me how much I can really work during anesthesia school (if I am accepted)? I understand that the majority of my time must be dedicated to studying, but I'm a little concerned about being able to pay my rent and car payment. Any suggestions? J.B.