Undergraduate student
I am an ICU RN who is interested in becoming a CRNA. I just wanted to address the question posted by an undergraduate student who may also be interested in the CRNA profession. I think it’s great to inquire about a profession before making a decision but it is also even better to prepare for that career track, way an advance. In making the journey to becoming a CRNA you do need to be a registered nurse prior to enrollment into a CRNA program, with work experience in the intensive care unit setting for at least a year, although some schools may require more than one year. I see that you will be graduating with a BS degree shortly, so if you decide that a CRNA is the career for you, it would be good to start researching and finding one of the many accelerated nursing programs that are now being offered. These programs allow individuals who already hold a BS degree to pursue a career in nursing in a non-traditional way. After enrolling you may be able to complete a nursing program in as little as 18 months and then be eligible to take the NCLEX board exam and become a RN. Keep in mind while doing all of this, try to achieve stellar grades and network throughout the whole process, to try and secure an ICU position upon graduating. Lena Gould (the mediator of this forum) is a great mentor, who offers help and encouragement to anyone, at any point throughout their journey, by giving invaluable advice, holding great workshops and excellent information sessions. All of these steps with help further you in your future goal of becoming a CRNA!
BROWSE
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SCHOOL: Mercy College of Northwest Ohio DEGREES: Associate Degree DESCRIPTION:St. Elizabeth Campus, Youngstown, Ohio: Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2009!
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It is fantastic to see
Tue, 07/14/2009 - 9:19pm — macostaIt is fantastic to see another person giving great advice to a future SRNA. I hope to be a CRNA some day and I value the great advice. We must help our young people achieve great things. Becoming a CRNA is such a fantastic opportunity for everyone. We need to start encouraging others to prepare as far ahead as possible so they have a vision of where they want to go and are prepared for a CRNA program somewhere. Lena is a fantastic mentor and an excellent example of the way we should all be. My hat goes off to you for advising a future SRNA! We need to start one at a time helping other individuals learn about the possibilities of becoming a CRNA!