The state of Delaware does not currently have any in-state CRNA schools in Delaware. With its convenient location to many other east coast states, however, it can be a good place for graduates of CRNA schools in the region to look for employment as a CRNA. Nearby states such as Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey all have schools with CRNA programs. Pennsylvania actually has the largest amount of CRNA programs currently offered by any state. If you live in Delaware and are interested in becoming a CRNA, do not be discouraged by Delaware’s lack of CRNA programs as there are many options available to you that are not too far away.
What does a CRNA do?
If you are considering becoming a CRNA in Delaware, it is important to research what types of things CRNAs do on a day-to-day basis. One good way to accomplish this is by job-shadowing a current CRNA. CRNAs in Delaware can work in hospitals, medical centers, surgery centers, and private office-based practices. Finding a CRNA to shadow can give you a chance to ask any specific questions you may have about a CRNA career. CRNAs can work in many varied settings, so it may be helpful to speak with multiple CRNAs who work in different environments to find out the pros and cons of their specific workplaces. For example, a CRNA working as an independent contractor for dental office will likely have very different experiences from a CRNA working at a large hospital as part of an anesthesiology team. Both are offering very important types of anesthetics, but probably have very different tasks on a daily basis.
State Specific Information for Delaware CRNAs
Each state has specific requirements which you must fulfill in order to be able to practice as a CRNA. In general, to become a CRNA in Delaware, you may need to complete some of the following:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
- License as a Registered Nurse in Delaware
- One year of acute/critical care experience
- Successful completion of nurse anesthesia educational program
- Successful completion of the National Certification Examination
These are the general steps that may be required in order to obtain your certification as a Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Once you have your certification, you will also be required to complete continuing education credits every two years in order to keep your certification current.
Any medical facility looking to hire a CRNA in Delaware may also have specific pre-requisites for experience, training, or certification. It is important to carefully review employment applications and job descriptions to see if you meet the necessary criteria.