What kind of people are CRNAs?

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Hi everyone! I'm starting my ADN program in August. I have a prior bachelor's degree, so I'll be looking at grad programs as soon as my work experiences meet the requirements necessary to apply...1-2 years or so. My first choice is midwifery, it's actually "why" I'm going to nursing school; I also know that I don't know anything, and I want to keep my eyes and mind open to other areas that might be a good fit for me. So, I'm trying to get a feel for some of the hard stuff- maybe to rule it out lol. I'm turning 40, and left a successful 20 career that I was just "over" and am ready to do something new. One advantage I have, as opposed to when I was 17 is that I have a really solid understanding of my strengths and weaknesses. I really do understand what types of situations I thrive in, and which ones are my Achilles heal. So, with that in mind...

I'd like to know more about CRNAs as "people" and "style" or even as a "student." In other words, what kind of people make good CRNAs? I have read a ton of threads in this section, I'll assume you are all excellent students- but what else? For example, are you someone who was always an exceptional test taker, always more of a math/science person since high school, type-A, etc.

Additionally, (and this is going to sound stupid) but what kinds of things do you study for anesthesia? I know what the prereqs are, but I means specifically what are you studying? Nervous system, chemistry, biology, ???

Are CRNAs more factual-memorizing-linear, or is it more critical thinking/global thinking?

Lastly, if CRNA is a stark contrast to any of the other ANP specialties, which one? Why?

I really appreciate any insight, I'm really trying to gather a well rounded concept of the profession. Thank you very much!!

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Great questions Cookderosa! I am looking forward to the responses.

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Specializes in CVPACU, CCU, ICU.

First of all congratulations and kudos to you for changing careers! Everyone should enjoy their work :) I am knocking on 40 and I am currently a senior anesthesia student so I understand needing a career change. I will try to answer some of your questions - I am sure others will have more insight.

1. I believe that you will need a BSN for anesthesia school at most colleges

2. Good CRNA's - bright, think on their feet, good with technology/equipment (we LOVE putting in a-lines, CVL's, doing epidurals, love new equipment etc.), good at multi tasking. Most of the folks that go to CRNA school are the super bright critical care nurses. The ones that are charge nurses, handle the sick patients, the nurses that other people admire. Definately the type A folks, good at math and science their entire lives, at least decent at math and some are great at math. Most are good test takers and those who are not definately struggle in CRNA school. (lots and lots of tests)

3. we study chemistry, physics, advanced anatomy, physiology, pathophys, lots of pharm and then everything else is very, very anesthesia specific.

4. people are gonna scream at this but I would say factual, memorizing, linear (bearing in mind I am still a student and I am obviously functioning at that level). Now I do not mean that we dont think on our feet we certainly do but anesthesia is a very narrow focused specialty vs. APN which is much more broad focus.

5. Hummm I wouldnt say stark contrast to other APN specialties - just a difference in the amount of patient interaction, amount of procedures you do daily.

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First of all congratulations and kudos to you for changing careers! Everyone should enjoy their work :) I am knocking on 40 and I am currently a senior anesthesia student so I understand needing a career change. I will try to answer some of your questions - I am sure others will have more insight.

1. I believe that you will need a BSN for anesthesia school at most colleges

2. Good CRNA's - bright, think on their feet, good with technology/equipment (we LOVE putting in a-lines, CVL's, doing epidurals, love new equipment etc.), good at multi tasking. Most of the folks that go to CRNA school are the super bright critical care nurses. The ones that are charge nurses, handle the sick patients, the nurses that other people admire. Definately the type A folks, good at math and science their entire lives, at least decent at math and some are great at math. Most are good test takers and those who are not definately struggle in CRNA school. (lots and lots of tests)

3. we study chemistry, physics, advanced anatomy, physiology, pathophys, lots of pharm and then everything else is very, very anesthesia specific.

4. people are gonna scream at this but I would say factual, memorizing, linear (bearing in mind I am still a student and I am obviously functioning at that level). Now I do not mean that we dont think on our feet we certainly do but anesthesia is a very narrow focused specialty vs. APN which is much more broad focus.

5. Hummm I wouldnt say stark contrast to other APN specialties - just a difference in the amount of patient interaction, amount of procedures you do daily.

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply, and good luck to you as you finish up!!!

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Specializes in CRNA.

CNRAs are the nurses that enjoy going to the codes. Are comfortable with making decisions quickly. Don't get fased if they make the surgeon mad and get yelled at, can confidently explain why they need to do what ever it is that is making the surgeon mad, and leave the case on good terms with the surgeon. Are risk takers.

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I'm so glad you all posted comments. This thread has left me feeling empowered. Thanks Cookderose!

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