How Do I Become a CRNA?

Before you apply to anesthesia school, you should know what you’re up against. Minimum requirements for becoming a CRNA student include the following:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing or other appropriate baccalaureate degree (check with the school to which you’re interested in applying).
• A current license as a registered nurse (RN).
• A minimum of one year of acute care experience as a registered nurse (RN).
• Admission to an accredited nurse anesthesia education program (click here for interviews tips and click here for a list of accredited programs).

In order to, then, become a CRNA:

• You must graduate from an accredited nurse anesthesia education program.
• You must pass the national certifying examination following graduation.

In order to maintain your certification, you must:

• Participate in a minimum of 40 hours of approved continuing education each two years.
• Maintain substantial anesthesia practice.
• Maintain current state licensure.
• Certify that they have not developed any conditions that could adversely affect your ability to practice anesthesia.

Information obtained from AANA.com on 1/16/09