[MUOStudentNurse]

I realize that this is a personal dilemma, but I just really could use some advise from those of you who have somewhat "been there"! It is very much appreciated BELIEVE ME!

Okay, I have graduated with my BSN and have been accepted into OSU as a direct entry CNM student. (I know, a whole other blog about whether or not that is okay) I really just feel that I am the type of person who would be much less likely to go back to school if I didn't do it right away. My interest is in Women's and Infant Health in general and also am begining work at a Level III NICU with hopes of transfering to L and D when possible. I guess where my problem occurs, is that there are certain things about becoming a CNM that I am not in love with. (sterotyping, job stability, liability) I would also consider becoming a Neonatal NP, and I think I would like that very much as well, especially after working in the NICU. SOOO my question is: what are your views on the differences or similarities of the roles of APN, and how do you know which you would enjoy more, until it may be too late? Like, how will I know that either is for me, until I am ACTUALLY in that role? I know these are some tough questions, but I am kind of stressing here! :-) Thank you everyone, and sorry so long!!

[midwife2b]

I've been educated in both WHNP and CNM roles.
I liked working as a WHNP but missed the L&D aspects of care.
You need to decide if you like working more with "families" or "babies".
From my perspective the NNP role is very technical. Procedures that need to be done. Very early gestations with lots of counseling.
And, BTW it is never too late... I was 37 when I got my WHNP and 47 when I got my CNM...

[Jolie]

I agree with you about continuing your education sooner rather than later, which often turns into never. But it sounds like you don't have enough practical working experience to know which area interests you most. Is it possible to begin a MSN program and take the more "general" courses first while you gain working experience?

One thing that I have always found puzzling is that there are so very few RNs with significant experience in both NICU and OB. I have done both, and loved both, but most nurses I've met love one and are scared to death of the other. Having experience in both fields has proved valuable to me, but if I had to choose one over the other, it would be NICU. I don't know of any way to expand an APN role to encompass both midwifery and neonatal intensive care, so I am afraid that you'll have to choose. That may be easier to do after you have a few years of patient care experience under your belt.

Good luck!

[MUOStudentNurse]

Thank you for your replies! It has really helped and I guess really only time will tell. For right now, I think I am going to wait until January to begin grad. school and probably even then only as part time status. This way I can get as much experience as possible before graduating. Thanks again!