What's the difference?

[NewOrderPsychoFan]

Hello, this may seem like an incredibly stupid question :imbar so please .... no rolling of the eyes.. :uhoh21: I am a pre-nursing student and am looking into what it takes to become a CRNA (like so many other people lol). I figure if you aim high you have nowhere to go but up, huh!?! I am concerned about the one or two years of ICU experience. What is considered ICU. I have seen SICU, MICU, PICU, CCU, NICU, Etc. Which is the one they are looking for? what are the differences? What is the difference between level I, II, and III? If anyone can enlighten me I would so much appreciate it. Thanks!

[mrigas]

All of the units you listed are considered ICU. The reason why they have different names is related to the populations they take care of (i.e., NICU = Neonatal Intensive Care Unit). Different CRNA programs have different requirements for the experience neccessary to enter the program. Check with them to see wich one is the best fit.

[TexasCCRN]

CRNA programs like you to have diverse experience I think. If looking for a first job and you know you want to go to CRNA school, I would choose the hospital/unit that will allow you the most experience with different things as possible. It will only help you as a CRNA. For example you don't want to do all hearts or all neuro (although all hearts would be better because usually those pts have lots of other problems). But, Level I is where you will get lots of trauma...it goes down from there. Like I said I would pick a good all around experience. Get exposed to as much as possible and soak up as much as you can.

[Nicky032605]

I see... thanks so much for the clarification. I appreciate it!