Megabyte

Thanks everyone for your help! The journey begins!

Hi Everyone, I am a newbie, and would like to share my situation and ask a question. Thank you in advance for your help. I am a Clinical Analyst in the IT healthcare field at age 39. I am considering a career change from IT to CRNA and wonder If I am too old. I am married (no kids) my wife and I are the same age and she is a ICU-RN and is supportive of the change if I should decide to go for it. I have done some investigation and know that I have to complete some pre-reqs. I have a BS in Computer Science and (believe it or not) have worked in the OR fixing computer issues during surgery in the main OR and Ambulatory surgeries as well. I always liked going in the OR because I like watching the surgeries. I done some research and this is what I came up with: 1 year: Pre-reqs (Chem, Microbio, A+P 1 and 2, Psych) 1 year: Accelerated BSN or 2 year Cert RN then BSN 2 years ICU experience minimum. And any pre-reqs for CRNA if needed. 2 years CRNA school. I should be 46 or 47 be the time I am done. By the way, while I am going to nursing school I would become a student nurse to get my feet wet in an ICU unit if possible. Even though the US reports say that computers in the healthcare industry is hot, it's really not. In computers they want someone with years of experience, specific criteria and you always have to learn some new software without getting full knowledge of the previous software or project you just finished. Lots of meetings, keyboard punching and fast multiple projects, Analytical and critical thinking is a must. I know that CRNA to some people in the RN field can be boring. But I think it is interesting because each patient is different and you don't know what's going to happen with the next patient, but you hope for the best in all surgeries. It requires fast critical thinking and action when trouble arises and at the same time the situation must be handled in a calm and confident matter. And at least you will become an expert as a CRNA. Most jobs are stressful and CRNA definitely fits the bill. I actually shadowed a CRNA for the whole day and observed 2 surgeries. I asked questions and I even talked with the OR-Nurse to get an understanding of what they do as well. As added benefit CRNA are compensated very well. So I'm just wondering if it is too late for me to change my career at age 39. Has anyone started a change in their careers to CRNA at my age or older? Thanks again for your help.