Switch hospitals?

EOD_DOC · Mar 16, 2009

I was strongly encouraged to switch to a trauma 1 hospital. I thought my credentials would carry me, but no. I am CCRN-CSC, instructor in the BLS, PALS and ACLS; a charge nurse who precepts new nurses and nurses for charge duty. GPA 3.53 GRE 1140, 3.5 years experience.

I will be starting my tertiary 1 icu job next month.

Hope that helps you.

My_brain_hurts · Mar 19, 2009

EOD DOC, you didn't get in? If you'd been at my interview I'd have just left!

I guess maybe level 1 trauma center experience is a big plus. I did get in to CRNA school and my work background is not anything like that of the other responder's. At the time of the interview I had 1.5 yrs nursing experience, all at a level I trauma center, but in the medical ICU. Make sure you work in a high acuity unit, wherever that may be. Good luck to you!

saturno14 · Mar 27, 2009

I am quite surprised you did not get in. You have an excellente resume. Working in a level 1 trauma hospital definitely helps. I am assuming you did well in the interview, right? Next time, make sure to apply to several CRNA schools.

gasmaster · Mar 28, 2009

There are nurses who are accepted into programs that haven't worked at Level I's before, HOWEVER, their other qualifications were extremely high. The schools look at the WHOLE picture. Say you have someone whose GPA is so-so but they have outstanding experience, that's can counter-balance the GPA. And vice versa. There is no black & white formula, but to give yourself the best advantage try to excel in each area that is scored. So if you have the opportunity to transfer to a Level I trauma center then by all means take it! I worked neuro/trauma ICU Level I & II, plus military trauma center for 16 years when I applied, CCRN, CNRN. Got in first interview & only applied to 2 schools.

nurselemmon · Mar 29, 2009

Whatever you do, don't work at the "U" in the CV-ICU...good learning on hemodynamics, but not a friendly crew...that is for sure.