How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- DNP and DNAP are both terminal nursing degrees.
- All nurse anesthetist programs require a minimum of one year of critical care experience.
- Continuing education requirements changed in 2024 with the implementation of the enhanced Continued Professional Certification (CPC) Program.
Becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) requires dedication and a significant time commitment. However, this position leads to greater autonomy, an advanced skill set, and a much higher salary!
Nurse anesthetists are one of the fast-growing and in-demand healthcare professions. With over 140 accredited CRNA schools nationwide, you'll have the opportunity to learn from top educators in the field.
This article explores how to become a CRNA, including education and experience requirements, certification, licensure, and more. Read on to learn more about how to enter this growing, lucrative nursing specialty.
How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist in 6 Steps
The path to CRNA can take 6-10 years after becoming a registered nurse (RN). Nevertheless, the benefits and salary bump are often worth the required schooling.
Each state dictates its own CRNA school and licensure requirements. However, these six steps are necessary to become a CRNA regardless of state of practice and licensure:
1. Earn a BSN From an Accredited Program
The first step to becoming a nurse anesthetist is earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. You can choose a traditional 4-year BSN or an accelerated second-degree BSN, depending on your educational background.
Selecting an accredited BSN program will ensure you're eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and, eventually, enter an accredited CRNA program. The two accrediting bodies for nursing programs in the US are:
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
2. Pass the NCLEX and Become an RN
Passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a requirement for RN licensure. The exam ensures that individuals are safe to practice, can make quality nursing judgments, and provide safe patient care.
3. Gain Experience in Critical Care
One of the most vital CRNA school requirements is critical care experience. Every CRNA school will require 1-2 years of adult or pediatric critical care experience. Each program has different standards, so you should carefully review admission requirements to ensure you meet them.
4. Enroll in an Accredited CRNA Program
The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) accredits CRNA programs. Depending on the program, you will earn either a DNP or DNAP.
How long is CRNA school? It depends, but most CRNA programs last 36 months or 9 semesters full-time. Remember that part-time attendance is not an option for CRNA school.
5. Pass the National Certification Exam
After graduating from an accredited CRNA program and earning a degree, you are eligible for the National Certification Examination (NCE) from the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).
4. Apply for State Licensure
After graduation and passing the NCE, apply for state licensure where you plan on practicing. You should always apply to your state of practice, even if it’s not where you live. It’s essential to check the state Board of Nursing website for all licensure criteria.
Nurse Anesthetist Education
Choosing a nurse anesthetist program can be overwhelming because many options are available, including DNP and DNAP programs.
The first thing to consider is your desired program’s location. All CRNA programs have in-person requirements, with a few hybrid online CRNA programs available. Regardless, you may need to relocate to attend your desired program.
DNP vs. DNAP
The Doctorate of Nurse Practice (DNP) and the Doctorate of Nursing Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) are both terminal nursing degrees. While similar, they have several notable differences.
The most notable difference is that DNP degrees are general doctorate nursing degrees that require specializations. However, DNAP degrees are specific for anesthesia students.
Additionally, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) accredits DNP programs. Meanwhile, the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) approves DNAP programs.
Choosing between DNP vs DNAP might not significantly affect your ability to practice or obtain employment. Instead, you may select out of convenience because of program location and accessibility.
Nurse Anesthetist Certification
Before gaining employment, nurse anesthetists must have both national certification and state licensure. CRNAs are certified through the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).
After earning a DNP or DNAP from one of the 141 accredited CRNA programs, you can take NCE. This exam is a variable-length, computerized adaptive test with 100-170 questions. Students have a maximum of three hours to complete it.
Nurse Anesthetist Licensure
After passing the NCE, apply for state licensure directly on the state Board of Nursing website. Specific licensure requirements will vary, but they all require application, transcript submission, and a fee.
CRNA Continuing Education Requirements
Continuing education requirements for CRNAs changed in 2024. The enhanced Continued Professional Certification (CPC) Program was introduced to streamline recertification. The current requirements include the following:
- Class A requirements: 60 Class A credits per 4-year CPC cycle. Candidates can use credits exceeding 60 in a 4-year cycle to meet their Class B requirements.
- Class B requirements: 40 Class B credits per 4-year CPC cycle. Class B credits are not assessed and do not need prior approval. Fulfill Class B requirements using any excess Class A credits earned during your four-year cycle (All 100 credits can be Class A).
- Core modules: required in every 4-year CPC cycle. The Core Modules provide a means to stay informed about current literature and evidence-based knowledge. The NBCRNA recognizes AANA as a designated Core Module Provider.
Tips on Becoming a CRNA
The path to becoming a CRNA is as demanding as it is rewarding. Although the process can be overwhelming and stressful, knowing and implementing the best tips and tricks can help you succeed.
- Focus on having a strong clinical foundation and background
- Earn advanced nursing certifications such as CCRN
- Maintain a strong support system in your home and at school
- Meal prep to stay energized throughout your courses and clinicals
- Highlight your leadership skills
- Work OT before starting a program to build up plenty of savings
- Set aside "me time" to avoid overworking yourself and burning out
- Prioritize organization to stay on top of your school-life balance
Looking for more resources to help you become a CRNA? Check out Nurse.org’s comprehensive program and requirement guides:
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