The Ultimate Guide to Goldfarb Nurse Anesthesia Programs4 min read

Are you considering a career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)? Goldfarb School of Nursing offers top-tier nurse anesthesia programs to prepare you for this challenging and rewarding field. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Goldfarb’s CRNA education, from admission requirements to certification and beyond.

Why Choose Goldfarb for Nurse Anesthesia?

Goldfarb School of Nursing, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is renowned for its exceptional nurse anesthesia programs. Here are some key reasons to consider Goldfarb for your CRNA education:

Accredited Programs

Goldfarb’s nurse anesthesia programs are fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). This ensures you’ll receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous standards.

Experienced Faculty

Learn from seasoned CRNAs and anesthesiologists who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Goldfarb’s faculty are dedicated to your success and provide personalized guidance throughout the program.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Goldfarb features advanced simulation labs and clinical sites equipped with the latest anesthesia technology. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings, from hospitals to ambulatory surgery centers.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

To apply for Goldfarb’s nurse anesthesia programs, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

  • Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
  • Current RN license in good standing
  • Minimum of one year of critical care nursing experience
  • Prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and statistics
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA in nursing and science courses
  • GRE scores (waived for 2021-2022 due to COVID-19)

Application Process

The application process for Goldfarb’s CRNA programs involves several steps:

  1. Submit online application through NursingCAS
  2. Provide official transcripts, resume, and personal statement
  3. Obtain three professional references
  4. Complete an interview with the admissions committee

Curriculum Overview

Goldfarb offers two nurse anesthesia programs: a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Both programs prepare you to become a skilled CRNA.

MSN Program

The 28-month MSN program includes:

  • Didactic coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and anesthesia principles
  • Clinical rotations in various specialty areas
  • Simulation training to develop critical thinking skills
  • Preparation for the National Certification Exam (NCE)

DNP Program

The 36-month DNP program builds on the MSN curriculum with additional coursework in:

  • Evidence-based practice and research
  • Healthcare policy and advocacy
  • Leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Completion of a DNP project focused on anesthesia practice

Clinical Experience and Rotations

Goldfarb partners with top healthcare facilities in the St. Louis area to provide diverse clinical experiences. You’ll gain a minimum of 2,000 hours of hands-on anesthesia training in:

  • Pre-operative assessment and planning
  • Intraoperative anesthesia management
  • Postoperative care and pain management
  • Specialty areas like obstetrics, pediatrics, and cardiovascular

Simulation Training

In addition to clinical rotations, you’ll spend time in Goldfarb’s state-of-the-art simulation lab. This allows you to practice managing complex anesthesia scenarios in a controlled environment before working with real patients.

Certification and Career Outlook

After completing Goldfarb’s nurse anesthesia program, you’ll be eligible to take the NCE to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). CRNAs are in high demand nationwide, with a projected job growth of 14% through 2029.

NBCRNA Certification Process

To become a CRNA, you must pass the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) exam. Goldfarb’s programs have a 95% first-time pass rate on the NCE, well above the national average.

Career Opportunities

As a CRNA, you’ll have opportunities to work in a variety of settings, such as:

  • Hospitals and medical centers
  • Ambulatory surgery centers
  • Dental offices and pain management clinics
  • Military and veterans’ health facilities
  • Education and research institutions

Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive is admission to Goldfarb’s nurse anesthesia programs?

Admission is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 15%. However, Goldfarb considers a holistic range of factors beyond grades and test scores, including critical care experience and personal qualities.

Can I work while enrolled in the program?

Due to the program’s rigorous full-time schedule, students are strongly discouraged from working while enrolled. Goldfarb offers some scholarship and financial aid opportunities to help offset costs.

What sets Goldfarb apart from other nurse anesthesia schools?

Goldfarb has a long history of excellence in CRNA education, with a 95% NCE pass rate and 100% employment rate within 6 months of graduation. Its location in the medical hub of St. Louis also provides access to diverse clinical sites.

Take the Next Step in Your Nurse Anesthesia Career

Choosing the right CRNA school is a crucial decision in your journey to becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist. With its accredited programs, expert faculty, and strong clinical partnerships, Goldfarb School of Nursing provides a solid foundation for a successful career in nurse anesthesia.

By meeting the rigorous admissions criteria and committing to the challenging curriculum, you’ll be well on your way to making a difference in the lives of patients as a skilled anesthesia provider. Take the next step today by exploring Goldfarb’s nurse anesthesia programs and discovering how they can help you achieve your professional goals.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *