Bryan College CRNA School Guide to Nurse Anesthesia

Imagine being in a busy hospital. The air is filled with smells of coffee, antiseptic, and urgency. A Nurse Anesthetist walks by, working with the Surgery team getting ready for surgery.

This is the first time a young ICU Nurse has seen a CRNA in Action. The CRNA asks the young ICU Nurse questions about their patient.

“What drips are running? What’s their NPO status? Give me some of their medical history.” This is one moment that inspires this young ICU RN to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA).

In Nebraska, Bryan College CRNA School is a key place for those wanting to be CRNAs. It has a special program for learning and hands-on practice. It’s one of just two CRNA programs in the state.

Students get tough classes and a strong community. This community makes their learning and future careers better.

Lincoln, where Bryan College is, is a great place to learn. It has a friendly vibe, cultural events, and a growing food scene. This makes it easy for students to do well in school and enjoy life.

Bryan College CRNA School is a top choice for becoming a CRNA. It has a great program and a welcoming community.

Key Takeaways

Bryan College CRNA School is one of only two CRNA programs in Nebraska.
70-80 applicants compete for acceptance each year, leading to a 68% acceptance rate.
Graduates achieve a 100% employment rate within 2 months of graduation.
The CRNA boards pass rate for first-time test takers was 87% in 2020.
Living in Lincoln offers a supportive environment with engaging community activities.

Important Dates and Information

Program Length	36 Months
Application Deadline	August
Degree Offered	DNAP
Class Size	28
Cost	$94,772
Contact	Sharon Hadenfeldt, PhD, CRNA 402-481-8606 sharon.hadenfeldt@bryanhealth.org
Website	Bryan College CRNA School
School Location	1535 S. 52nd St. Lincoln, NE 68506

Overview of Bryan College and Its CRNA Program

Bryan College is a top school for Nurse Anesthesia education.

The School of Nurse Anesthesia prepares Nurse Anesthetists by mixing theory with practical clinical experience.

History of Bryan College

Bryan College, established in 1988, has evolved to meet the growing demands of healthcare, offering a renowned CRNA program that prepares students for successful careers in nurse anesthesia.

The program emphasizes professionalism, compassion, and patient-centered care, equipping graduates with the skills to excel in diverse healthcare settings.

Fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), the program maintains the highest standards of education and clinical training.

With a remarkable 100% pass rate on the National Certification Exam (NCE), Bryan College consistently delivers exceptional outcomes, shaping skilled and compassionate nurse anesthetists who make a meaningful impact in their communities.

What is a Nurse Anesthetist?

A Nurse Anesthetist, or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in administering anesthesia and providing pain management during surgical, obstetrical, and diagnostic procedures.

CRNAs work independently or as part of a healthcare team, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative process.

They are highly skilled professionals trained to handle critical care scenarios and make important clinical decisions.

Role and Responsibilities

Nurse anesthetists do many important things to keep patients safe and comfy. Some of their main jobs are:

Checking patients before surgery to see how they’re doing.
Giving anesthesia in different surgeries.
Watching patients during surgery to change the anesthesia if needed.
Helping with pain after surgery.

They work with doctors, labor and delivery, and others to help care for patients better.

Education and Certification Requirements

To be a nurse anesthetist, you need to meet certain education and certification needs. Here’s what you have to do:

Get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or something similar.
Get a registered nurse (RN) license.
Work as a critical care nurse for at least a year.
Finish a nurse anesthesia program, which is usually a master’s or doctoral degree.
Pass the National Board on Certification and Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) exam to get CRNA certification.

Getting CRNA certified shows you’re ready for the tough job of a nurse anesthetist.

Curriculum of the CRNA Program

The CRNA program at Bryan College is well-planned. It gives students a strong base in anesthesia education. The program includes key courses and hands-on experiences. These prepare students for a career in nurse anesthesia.

Core Courses

The core courses cover important topics for anesthesia care. They include:

Pharmacology
Anatomy
Pathophysiology
Advanced Physiology
Anesthesia Techniques

These subjects teach students the basics and practices of anesthesia.

Clinical Practicum Experiences

Clinical practicum experiences are a big part of the program. They let students use what they learned in real situations. They focus on:

Administering anesthesia in different surgeries
Working well with healthcare teams
Improving critical thinking and decision-making

These experiences boost students’ confidence and skills for the real world.

Research Opportunities

Research is a key part of the CRNA program. It lets students dive into new anesthesia practices. They work on research projects, including a Capstone project.

This project shows how they can use research in their work. It encourages them to care for patients based on evidence.

Admissions Process for Bryan College CRNA School

The CRNA program at Bryan College has a structured and competitive admissions process. It aims to choose the best candidates for this prestigious program. Prospective students need to know the specific requirements, deadlines, and interview details to improve their chances.

Prerequisites for Applicants

To apply for the CRNA program, you need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an active RN license. Also, having at least one year of critical care nursing experience is recommended. You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, with a preferred GPA of 3.2 in science courses.

Applicants must also complete certain courses like statistics, chemistry, and anatomy. The GRE is not required, but those with two or more years of RN experience are preferred.

Application Timeline

The application period for the CRNA program starts on April 1 and ends on August 31. This is for the May semester of the following year. It’s important to know this timeline to prepare well.

Nurse anesthesia programs often have rolling admissions or specific deadlines. So, it’s crucial to check the requirements for each program.

Interview Process

After submitting applications, candidates go through a detailed interview process. Faculty, clinical staff, and the program director conduct these interviews. They aim to evaluate your interpersonal skills and professional readiness.

Preparing well for this is key. It’s a chance to show your qualifications and dedication to nurse anesthesia.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Going to school for CRNA at Bryan College can be expensive. But, there are many ways to get financial help. This part talks about the different kinds of aid, scholarships, and tips for paying for school.

Types of Financial Aid Available

There are many ways to get help with school costs. You can get:

Federal Loans
Grants
Work-Study Programs
Merit-Based Scholarships
Need-Based Scholarships

Government money is a big help for those who need it. Many grants and fellowships don’t need to be paid back. This is great for students who need support.

Scholarship Opportunities for Students

Bryan College has many scholarships. These include:

Merit-Based Scholarships for good grades.
Need-Based Scholarships for those who need more help.
External scholarships from groups like the National Health Service Corps and local businesses.

Scholarships can be from $1,000 to $14,398. Looking for scholarships can find money for your specific situation.

Tips for Managing Educational Expenses

It’s important to make a budget for school. Here are some tips:

Keep track of all your money, including aid and savings.
Plan out your monthly spending, focusing on big costs like tuition and living.
Remember to apply for scholarships on time.
Look for jobs or assistantships that help pay for school.
Check out local scholarships that might have fewer applicants.

Using financial aid, applying for scholarships, and budgeting can help with the cost of CRNA school.

Financial Aid Type	Description	Repayment Required
Federal Loans	Loans provided by the federal government	Yes
Grants	Financial aid based on need, does not require repayment	No
Work-Study Programs	Part-time jobs for students to earn money	No
Merit-Based Scholarships	Awards given for academic achievements	No
Need-Based Scholarships	Awards aimed at students who demonstrate financial needs	No

Student Life at Bryan College

Being a student at Bryan College is exciting. The campus is full of life, supporting both learning and personal growth. It has modern facilities that make learning fun.

Campus Facilities

The campus has top-notch resources like simulation labs and study areas. These places help students learn together. They also have the latest technology for their future careers in anesthesia.

These facilities are key in helping students do well in their studies and practical work.

Extracurricular Activities

At Bryan College, students can join clubs and organizations. This helps them meet new people and build a community. It’s a great way to learn leadership skills and enjoy college life.

Student Support Services

There are many support services for students. They offer counseling, academic advising, and mentoring. This helps students overcome challenges and stay well.

It makes sure students can succeed in their studies and personal life.

Clinical Experience Opportunities

Clinical experience is key in nurse anesthetist education at Bryan College. It lets students dive into the real world of anesthesia nursing. They learn skills and knowledge that shape their careers.

Partner Hospitals and Clinics

The program works with top hospitals and clinics in Nebraska and more. Students get quality clinical experience. These places have the latest medical tech and many patients.

This partnership builds strong ties between schools and healthcare. It makes the clinical experience better.

Types of Anesthesia Practices

Students see many types of anesthesia practices. These include:

General anesthesia for surgeries
Regional anesthesia methods
Monitored anesthesia care
Anesthesia for kids, seniors, and special groups

This variety prepares students for many surgical settings. It helps them become skilled CRNAs.

Supervised Practice Hours

Students must complete many supervised practice hours. This helps them learn from experts. It makes sure they can care for patients safely.

Supervision is key. It shows Bryan College’s dedication to top-notch anesthesia nursing education.

Bryan College prepares students well for anesthesia nursing. They get the skills and knowledge to do great in their careers.

Faculty and Staff at Bryan College CRNA School

The Bryan College CRNA School has a dedicated team of professionals. They help shape the future of nurse anesthesia. The school has 42 faculty members and 38 staff, creating a great balance.

Students learn a lot from the faculty’s vast experiences. The faculty’s commitment to quality education makes learning rich.

Experienced Faculty Background

The Bryan College faculty has many specializations. They include:

Adult/Gerontology Care
Palliative and Hospice Care
Cardiology
Acute and Critical Care Medicine
Psychiatric Nursing
Surgical Oncology
Trauma and Disaster Response

This variety of expertise ensures students get a well-rounded education in nurse anesthesia.

Mentorship Opportunities

CRNA mentorship is a big part of learning at Bryan College. Faculty members guide students in their studies and careers. They offer:

One-on-one mentoring sessions
Professional networking events
Research collaborations with faculty

This mentorship improves learning and helps students make important connections in the field.

Faculty Research Contributions

The Bryan College faculty is committed to research. They study important topics in nurse anesthesia. Some of their research interests are:

Gestational Diabetes
Improving Health Equity for Individuals with Disabilities
Leadership and Scholarship in Nursing
Wound Care and Patient Outcomes

Through their research, Bryan College faculty members improve the field and clinical practices.

Outcomes and Career Prospects

Graduates of the Bryan College CRNA program have great career outcomes. They find jobs quickly, often within two months. This shows there’s a big need for skilled nurse anesthetists.

Job Placement Rate

The CRNA job placement outcomes show Bryan College’s strong education. Employers want graduates for their skills and experience. This means graduates start successful careers right away.

Average Salary for CRNAs

CRNAs in Nebraska make about $241,050 on average. This excellent salary is because of the important work CRNAs do. It meets the demand for anesthesia experts in healthcare.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

CRNAs need to keep learning to stay certified and grow. They can take part in workshops and conferences. This helps them stay up-to-date and grow in their careers.

Alumni Network and Community

The alumni network at Bryan College CRNA School is key for graduates. It helps build professional connections that last long after school. This community boosts networking skills and encourages teamwork among CRNAs in healthcare.

Building Professional Connections

Bryan College alumni get to meet at special events and join in on projects. These activities help build friendships and offer chances to grow in your career. Alumni share their knowledge and stories, making the anesthesia field stronger.

Involvement in Professional Organizations

Being part of professional groups helps Bryan College alumni stay connected. Joining these organizations keeps graduates updated on the latest in healthcare. Carol Cochran’s work on the UAB National Alumni Society shows the dedication of many alumni to their field.

FAQs About Bryan College CRNA Program

Prospective students often have questions about the Bryan College CRNA program. They ask about everything from how to get in to what clinical experiences are like. This section answers key questions and tells you where to find more info.

Common Questions from Prospective Students

Many wonder about the interview process. The Bryan College CRNA program has four fifteen-minute interviews with professors and CRNA staff. There’s also a fifteen-minute session with the dean.

Non-clinical questions often ask about money and family support. Talking to faculty, like Dr. Jones, who teaches neuro-anatomy, is important. It helps you learn to be a good anesthesia provider.

Students also ask about preparing for clinical experiences. The program teaches you the skills you need for anesthesia. You don’t need to know chemistry or physics well.

Applicants worry about the program’s challenges, like needing specific supplies quickly. Knowing this helps you understand what to expect.

Resources for Additional Information

Bryan College has many resources to help you decide. They offer detailed program handbooks that explain what you need to get in. These include classes in statistics and chemistry.

Informational sessions let you ask Bryan College CRNA frequently asked questions. You can talk to faculty and current students.

Why Choose Bryan College for Your CRNA Education?

Choosing the right school for nursing anesthesia education is key. Bryan College CRNA School is a top choice because of its long history in the field. It focuses on both clinical practice and student support.

This approach ensures graduates are ready to succeed as nurse anesthetists. Nebraska’s supportive community adds to the ideal learning environment. It helps students grow both personally and professionally.

Unique Selling Points

At Bryan College, students get a curriculum that meets healthcare’s changing needs. The program covers important anesthesia topics, building on nursing basics. It doesn’t include chemistry and physics, making it easier.

Students get real-world experience, especially those from big trauma centers. This prepares them for their future careers. They learn to handle complex patient situations through mentorship and hands-on training.

Testimonials from Current Students and Graduates

Students and alumni love their time at Bryan College CRNA School. They talk about the supportive faculty and the teamwork that helps them grow. They value the practical training and learning about critical care and monitoring.

This experience is not just fulfilling but also life-changing. It makes them ready for their roles as nurse anesthetists.

FAQ

What are the prerequisites for the Bryan College CRNA program?

You need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Also, you must have at least one year of critical care experience.

How long does the CRNA program at Bryan College take to complete?

The program lasts about 28 months. You’ll earn a master’s or doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia.

What does the CRNA curriculum include?

You’ll learn about pharmacology, anatomy, and pathophysiology. There are also clinical practicum experiences and a Capstone project.

What States have CRNA Schools?

Almost every State has a CRNA School. If you want to research each all the schools you can go to CRNA Schools by State and check each one of them out.

How can I apply for financial aid while attending Bryan College’s CRNA School?

Look into federal loans, grants, and nursing scholarships. There are resources to help with budgeting and finding funding.

How competitive is the admissions process for the CRNA program?

The admissions are competitive. You’ll have a structured interview with faculty and clinical staff.

What type of clinical experience will I gain as a student?

You’ll get hands-on experience in partner hospitals and clinics. You’ll practice anesthesia and complete supervised hours.

What resources are available for prospective students to learn more about the program?

Bryan College offers handbooks, informational sessions, and talks with current students. This helps you learn about the CRNA program.

What career prospects can I expect after graduating from Bryan College’s CRNA program?

You’ll have great job prospects. The job placement rate is 100% within two months. CRNAs in Nebraska earn an average of $176,880.

How does mentorship work within the CRNA program?

Faculty members offer mentorship. They guide and support you as you learn and grow in your skills.

Are there opportunities for continuing education after becoming a CRNA?

Yes, continuing education is key. There are chances to keep your certification and improve your skills in anesthesia nursing.