What is it like?

offlabel · Jul 16, 2016

You have at the very least seven years to go before you should even apply to nurse anesthesia training... my own advice, since you're asking, move in that direction then ask that same question then.

emb92250 · Jul 16, 2016

CRNA's, from what I understand, have kinda the same deal as RNs. They can choose to work per diem (a handful of shifts per month), part time, or full time. You won't have to work more than you think will be best for your family, although an individual shift might be 12-16 hours long depending on the day. However, during school, don't expect to have much family time. The MSN or DNP programs will vary in length, but they usually require upwards of 50-80 hours a week with class, independent study, study groups, projects, etc. I'm currently an RN working on getting into CRNA school.

paolahevia · Jul 16, 2016

Thank you :)

Spoiled1, MSN, RN · Jul 17, 2016

I don't think you will necessarily be stuck at work all day, however there are some things you must consider. CRNAs work a variety of schedules--8s, 10s,12s, 14s, 16s, 24s, etc. This will depend on the facility you choose to go to work after school. Keep in mind as you go forward that becoming a CRNA is very different from being an RN. Meaning you no longer are a shift worker. Many times you will stay until your cases are finished. Just because you are scheduled till 7 doesn't mean you will automatically leave at 7. Of course the dept. works hard to try and get you out on time, but it doesn't always work out. Sometimes there is no one to relieve (staffing issues). On the flip side, there may be some days when you're scheduled till 7, but leave at 2. Again this will vary greatly on where you work as a CRNA. So, if time with your family is important then you may choose to work 2-3 days a week and plan to be there until the cases are done. Overall you should be able to maintain a good work life balance. Good luck!

paolahevia · Jul 17, 2016

I don't think you will necessarily be stuck at work all day, however there are some things you must consider. CRNAs work a variety of schedules--8s, 10s,12s, 14s, 16s, 24s, etc. This will depend on the facility you choose to go to work after school. Keep in mind as you go forward that becoming a CRNA is very different from being an RN. Meaning you no longer are a shift worker. Many times you will stay until your cases are finished. Just because you are scheduled till 7 doesn't mean you will automatically leave at 7. Of course the dept. works hard to try and get you out on time, but it doesn't always work out. Sometimes there is no one to relieve (staffing issues). On the flip side, there may be some days when you're scheduled till 7, but leave at 2. Again this will vary greatly on where you work as a CRNA. So, if time with your family is important then you may choose to work 2-3 days a week and plan to be there until the cases are done. Overall you should be able to maintain a good work life balance. Good luck!

awesome thank you!!

BigPappaCRNA · Jul 17, 2016

The possibilities of work are endless. Every conceivable shift and combination is worked every day. By thousands. Some flexibility may be needed on your part, as not all practice styles, and types, exist everywhere. And even though you received excellent advice above, there sometimes is shift work where you absolutely get relieved. OB, and Trauma are two examples. When you are working in those two specialties, there is always someone scheduled to come on and relieve you. The larger the hospital, the more likely this is the case. The smaller more remote the hospital, the less likely.

paolahevia · Jul 17, 2016

The possibilities of work are endless. Every conceivable shift and combination is worked every day. By thousands. Some flexibility may be needed on your part, as not all practice styles, and types, exist everywhere. And even though you received excellent advice above, there sometimes is shift work where you absolutely get relieved. OB, and Trauma are two examples. When you are working in those two specialties, there is always someone scheduled to come on and relieve you. The larger the hospital, the more likely this is the case. The smaller more remote the hospital, the less likely.

thank you so much makes me feel much better I live in DFW so I see it's possibleí ½í²•