A career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is an exciting and rewarding path for nurses looking to advance their careers. CRNAs are highly trained professionals who administer anesthesia, manage pain, and provide critical care in a variety of medical settings. With high earning potential, job stability, and professional autonomy, it’s no surprise that many nurses aspire to become CRNAs.
At CRNA Mentor, we guide aspiring CRNAs through every step of their journey. If you’re wondering how to become a nurse anesthetist, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process.
Step 1: Earn Your Nursing Degree
To become a CRNA, you must first become a registered nurse (RN) with a strong educational foundation.
Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Most CRNA programs require a BSN degree, although some may accept an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with additional coursework.
RN-to-BSN Bridge Programs – If you have an ADN, enrolling in an RN-to-BSN program can help you meet the educational requirements for CRNA school.
Step 2: Obtain RN Licensure
- Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam – After earning your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed nurse.
- Gain Hands-On Nursing Experience – Working in a hospital or acute care setting helps build essential skills that will prepare you for anesthesia school.
Step 3: Gain Critical Care Experience
CRNA programs require applicants to have at least one year of critical care experience, though many successful applicants have two or more years in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Work in an ICU, Surgical ICU (SICU), Medical ICU (MICU), or Neonatal ICU (NICU) to gain hands-on critical care experience.
Develop skills in ventilator management, hemodynamic monitoring, advanced pharmacology, and critical decision-making.
Obtain certifications like the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) credential to strengthen your application.
Step 4: Enroll in a CRNA Program
CRNA programs have transitioned to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degrees. These programs provide extensive training in anesthesia techniques, physiology, and pharmacology.
- Apply to an accredited CRNA program – Programs typically last 3 years and include rigorous coursework and clinical training.
- Prepare for competitive admissions – CRNA programs are highly selective, so having a strong GPA, high GRE scores (if required), leadership experience, and CRNA shadowing hours can boost your chances.
- Complete extensive clinical training – During the program, you’ll gain hands-on experience administering anesthesia under supervision.
Step 5: Pass the National Certification Exam (NCE)
After completing a CRNA program, you must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).
- The exam tests knowledge in basic sciences, anesthesia principles, and clinical practices.
- Prepare by using study guides, practice tests, and review courses.
- Once certified, you can officially practice as a CRNA! 🎉
Step 6: Start Your Career as a CRNA
With certification in hand, you’re now ready to practice as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist! CRNAs work in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals – Operating rooms, trauma centers, labor & delivery
- Surgical Centers – Outpatient anesthesia services
- Pain Management Clinics – Chronic pain treatment
- Independent Practice – Many states allow CRNAs to practice without physician supervision
As a CRNA, you’ll enjoy high earning potential (often exceeding $200,000 per year), professional autonomy, and the opportunity to significantly impact healthcare.
Why Choose a Career as a CRNA?
- High Salary & Job Security – CRNAs are among the highest-paid advanced practice nurses.
- Professional Independence – In many states, CRNAs can practice without an anesthesiologist’s supervision.
- Growing Demand – The demand for CRNAs is rising due to an aging population and increased surgical procedures.
- Meaningful Work – You ensure patient safety and comfort during surgery.
Start Your CRNA Journey Today!
At CRNA Mentor, we provide mentorship, guidance, and resources to help aspiring CRNAs succeed. Whether you’re just starting or preparing for CRNA school, we’re here to support you every step.
