Becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) takes dedication, grit, and a clear sense of why you want to do this work. It’s one of the most rewarding and respected roles in healthcare since you work independently, solve complex problems, and truly help people.
So, how do you begin this journey? This guide breaks down every step, from where to start to how to reach your goal. Read on.
What’s a CRNA and Why Should You Consider Becoming One?
A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist is an advanced practice registered nurse who specializes in providing anesthesia services and managing patients before, during, and after medical and surgical procedures.
As such, they can provide patient care in various settings, including:
- Pre-surgical centers
- Ambulatory surgery centers or outpatient surgery centers
- Plastic surgery centers
- Labor and delivery units
- Birthing centers
- Endoscopy units
- Post-anesthesia care units
- Outpatient centers
Their role blends clinical expertise with critical decision-making, making them essential members of surgical, critical care, and specialized patient care teams. This diversity in the profession also means licensed CRNAs will always have a place in the industry.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were only 47,810 practicing nurse anesthesiologists as of May 2023. Meanwhile, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology reports that approximately 2,400 new CRNAs graduate annually, creating a supply and demand gap.
1. Laying the Academic Foundation
A successful career as a CRNA requires you to be a registered nurse (RN) first. So, look for schools that offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and earn your degree in four years.
Your grade point average (GPA) will be a crucial factor in your application, though many students underestimate its importance early in their studies. Most programs require at least a 3.0, but aim higher, particularly in sciences, as strong academic performance demonstrates your readiness for advanced practice.
Becoming an RN is just the first leg of your journey. Once you’ve earned that diploma, take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) next. The real work begins once you have that nursing license in hand.
2. Developing Your Experience
Building your clinical experience is a must to increase your chances of getting accepted. CRNA program requirements vary, but all schools require significant critical care experience.
Focus on Critical Patient Care
Nurse anesthetists respond to emergencies and make split-second decisions that directly impact a patient’s life. This level of responsibility demands a deep understanding of how the body works and responds in different environments.
Working in an intensive care unit (ICU) teaches you advanced patient care, monitoring, and pharmacology, essential aspects of anesthesiology, allowing you to improve your clinical skills.
Look for Internship Opportunities
Unfortunately, CRNA schools rarely have hands-on learning opportunities before admission. Your best bet is to find reputable organizations that provide a CRNA internship experience tailored to your skills and interests.
Many placements allow students and licensed professionals to shadow CRNAs, anesthesiologists, and residents in various clinical settings. But beyond care units, you might get to observe experienced practitioners in hospital operating rooms, outpatient care centers, and ambulatory surgical centers.
Completing specialized training and internships at any stage of your career provides you with an edge and clarity about your future. Pre-CRNA students, for example, can develop more competitive applications, and those taking up nurse anesthesia programs get a deeper understanding of the profession. Meanwhile, licensed CRNAs can refine their skills and work toward career advancement.
3. Preparing for CRNA Admission
Once you’ve acquired a solid critical care experience, refine your academic readiness further.
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): CRNA program requirements vary when it comes to the GRE. While some may still require this test, many have waived the requirement, particularly for applicants with strong GPAs or other exceptional qualifications. That said, it’s important to research the specific GRE policies of each school you’re considering.
- License and Certifications: Prepare your active RN license and certifications from the specialized training you’ve participated in. You may need to secure a Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification, which demonstrates your expertise in the field.
- Letters of Recommendation: Build strong relationships with your critical care nurse managers, charge nurses, and internship supervisors. These connections will be crucial when you need compelling letters of recommendation. Look for recommenders who know you well and can advocate for you.
Securing a spot in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program, often shortened to DNAP, is a big achievement. These programs are highly competitive, so applicants must show academic excellence and professional maturity.
4. Exceling in the CRNA Program
CRNA school is no walk in the park. The coursework is dense, the clinical hours are grueling, and the stakes are high. That said, it helps to create a solid routine, find good study partners, and connect with mentors who’ve been through it. Having a set schedule helps, too. It keeps you on track when everything feels overwhelming.
Moreover, make the most out of this experience by constantly expanding your knowledge. So, ask questions and seek feedback. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them.
5. Pursuing Lifelong Learning and Growth
After graduation, taking the National Certification Examination administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) comes next. So, prepare diligently. Once you pass the CRNA exam, you can start your practice and add another feather to your nursing career cap!
But like other healthcare branches, the field of anesthesia is constantly evolving. Continuing education is then crucial to maintain your certification and licensure. Consider this an opportunity to stay updated with the best practices and expand your expertise.
The possibilities seem endless, as a nurse anesthetist’s scope of practice is wide. Apart from picking certain fields, you might be drawn to leadership roles, teaching students, engaging in research, or working independently as a consultant.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a CRNA is tough. The program will test your limits and demand your full commitment. It won’t be easy, but the time and effort you put into it will all be worth it. You’ll have a career that challenges you and lets you make a difference every single day.
However, burnout is a real concern in this field. So, remember to prioritize your well-being, set clear boundaries, and make time for rest and activities you enjoy to sustain a fulfilling career.
