From ICU to CRNA: A Journey Through Transition with Lexi Urman
Current MICU nurse and future SRNA coming in 2026! I’ve been a bedside RN for over four years in varied roles, including surgical progressive care, same-day surgery, PACU, and most recently, MICU the last two years. Prior to my role as a RN I worked as a CNA for six years.
During one of my first RN roles, I had the privilege of working alongside CRNAs and MDAs, and therefore, was introduced to the magnificent world of anesthesia. Learning about CRNAs and all they are capable of doing to help others, immediately sparked my interest. With a new found career interest, and much encouragement from CRNAs, I set a path toward becoming a CRNA myself. Three years later, I received acceptance into my top choice DNP in Anesthesia program! I am absolutely honored to be able to start my anesthesia education in a few short months.
Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode, host Beth Quaas sits down with Lexi Urman, a current MICU nurse and future SRNA set to begin her DNP in Anesthesia program in 2026. With over four years as a bedside RN — across surgical progressive care, same-day surgery, PACU, and MICU — plus six years as a CNA before that, Lexi brings a grounded, experienced perspective to the CRNA journey.
It was during an early RN role working alongside CRNAs and MDAs that she first discovered her passion for anesthesia, and with their encouragement, spent the next three years building a path toward acceptance into her top choice DNP Nurse Anesthesia program.
In this conversation, she opens up about navigating a COVID-impacted nursing education, the competitive CRNA application process, facing workplace stigma for pursuing advancement, and how she turned every doubt into fuel. Her message is clear: do the work, don't let anyone shrink your dreams, and never stop reaching.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
- Shadowing is non-negotiable.
- Use prep platforms wisely.
- The stigma is real, but survivable.
- Why is important to attend your state and national association meetings.
- How to use doubt as fuel.
Resources & Links:
Connect with Lexi by email.
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