How to Become a CRNA (Nurse Anesthetist)
The complete path to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. One of the highest-paying and most autonomous nursing specialties.
What Do CRNAs Do?
CRNAs are advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia for surgeries, diagnostic procedures, and pain management. They provide the same anesthesia services as physician anesthesiologists.
Pre-Anesthesia
- Patient assessment
- Anesthesia planning
- Risk evaluation
- Informed consent
During Procedure
- Administer anesthesia
- Monitor vital signs
- Adjust medications
- Airway management
Post-Anesthesia
- Recovery monitoring
- Pain management
- Complication response
- Patient discharge
Steps to Become a CRNA
Earn Your BSN
4 yearsComplete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited program. A strong foundation in sciences is essential for CRNA programs.
Gain Critical Care ICU Experience
1-3 yearsWork as an RN in an intensive care unit. This is the most critical step for CRNA admission. Programs require a minimum of 1 year, but most successful applicants have 2-3 years.
Preferred ICU Settings:
- Surgical ICU (SICU)
- Medical ICU (MICU)
- Cardiovascular ICU (CVICU)
- Neuro ICU
Additional Recommendations:
- Obtain CCRN certification (highly recommended)
- Shadow CRNAs to confirm your interest
- Gain experience with ventilators, hemodynamic monitoring, and vasoactive drips
Complete a CRNA Doctoral Program
3-4 yearsAs of 2022, all CRNA programs must award a doctoral degree (DNP or DNAP). Programs are accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).
Program Requirements:
Programs are extremely rigorous. Many students do not work during the program due to the demanding schedule.
Application Requirements:
- BSN from accredited program
- Minimum 1 year ICU experience (2-3 preferred)
- GPA 3.0+ (competitive applicants: 3.5+)
- GRE scores (some programs)
- CCRN certification (highly recommended)
- Letters of recommendation
Pass the NCE Certification Exam
1-2 monthsThe National Certification Examination (NCE) is administered by the NBCRNA. Passing is required for CRNA practice.
NCE Exam Details:
Obtain State APRN License
2-8 weeksApply for APRN licensure as a CRNA through your state board of nursing.
Requirements:
- Active RN license
- NBCRNA certification
- Doctoral degree verification
- DEA registration
CRNA Salary Potential
CRNAs are among the highest-paid nursing professionals. Salary varies by location, setting, and experience.
Not Sure Yet?
Still exploring your options? Learn about the salary, career outlook, and whether this career is right for you.
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