CRNA Shadowing - How to Shadow a Nurse Anesthetist
Learn how to find and make the most of CRNA shadowing opportunities. Get real tips to observe nurse anesthetists and prepare for your CRNA journey.
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CRNA shadowing is one of the most important first steps you can take if you’re considering a career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. It gives you a close-up view of the role, responsibilities, and expectations of a nurse anesthetist. At CRNA MENTOR, early exposure helps you make informed choices and strengthens your future applications.
Why CRNA Shadowing Matters
Choosing to become a CRNA is a major decision that requires time, education, and experience. Shadowing a practicing CRNA lets you witness their day-to-day work, from patient assessments and anesthesia planning to managing care during surgery.
It also helps confirm that this is the right path for you. Many CRNA programs highly recommend shadowing, even if they don’t list it as a formal requirement. It shows admissions committees that you’ve taken initiative, done your research, and understand what the career truly involves.
When to Start Shadowing a CRNA
The earlier, the better. If you’re in nursing school or even just exploring career paths as a high school student, it’s never too soon to start shadowing. The earlier you begin, the more time you’ll have to reflect on your goals, ask meaningful questions, and build relationships with professionals in the field.
If you didn’t discover the CRNA path until after you started working in the ICU, that’s okay too. Just make sure to shadow a CRNA before applying to school. Even one shadowing experience can help you feel more confident and prepared.
How to Arrange a CRNA Shadowing Experience
Many students are unsure how to find shadowing opportunities, especially in hospitals with strict access rules. Here are a few steps to help:
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Start at your workplace: If you’re already working in a hospital, reach out to the Chief CRNA, an anesthesia provider, or the anesthesia department. Ask if you can observe a day in the operating room.
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Use the hospital directory: Call the main hospital number and ask to speak with the anesthesia department. Politely explain your goal and request a shadowing opportunity.
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Reach out to local schools: Contact CRNA programs near you. Ask who their student or clinical site coordinators are. These individuals often have connections and can help you find a site willing to host students for shadowing.
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Join a CRNA community: Online platforms like the CSPA Free Community can connect you with CRNAs and fellow students. Many aspiring CRNAs find shadowing opportunities through these networks.
What to Expect During Your Shadowing
During a shadowing session, you will likely observe procedures, patient interactions, and team collaboration. Be respectful, stay quiet during critical moments, and always follow the CRNA’s instructions.
Bring a notepad to jot down observations or questions. This helps later when you’re writing your personal statement or preparing for an interview.
Many successful CRNA applicants aim for about 40 total hours of shadowing, with at least 16 hours completed within the year of applying. But even if you can only get a few hours, the experience still matters.
What If You Cannot Find a CRNA to Shadow
It’s not uncommon to face challenges finding shadowing experiences, especially if you live in a rural area or work in a facility that does not allow outside observers.
If that’s the case:
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Start with your workplace, but also ask nearby hospitals or surgical centers.
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Be persistent. If one person says no, try another department or facility.
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Reach out to CRNA faculty at schools you're interested in. They often know alumni or clinical sites that accept students for observation.
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Join online communities like ICU Dreaming About Anesthesia or CRNA MENTOR’s Facebook group to connect with others who have successfully found opportunities.
Whatever you do, don’t give up. Shadowing takes effort to arrange, but the insights and credibility it brings to your application are well worth it.
How CRNA MENTOR Supports Shadowing
At CRNA MENTOR, we provide tools and community support to help you navigate the shadowing process. You can:
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Download our free CRNA Shadowing Form to document your experience
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Connect with mentors who can help you find shadowing sites
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Get guidance on how to talk with CRNAs, what questions to ask, and how to make the most of your experience
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Join our private community to hear from students, residents, and working CRNAs who share their paths and tips
Shadowing is not just about checking a box—it’s a chance to confirm your goals and build confidence in your future career.
Ready to take the first step?
Start looking for shadowing opportunities today. And if you need help, CRNA MENTOR is here to guide you with free mentorship, real-world advice, and a community that wants you to succeed.
