[LinZ_956]

Hi,
I'm in a BSN program and plan on becoming an NP. I was looking at Vanderbilt's website, and in their ACNP program they offer different specializations...one of which is cardiothoracic surgery. Has anyone been through Vanderbilt's MSN program, and what do you think the specialization in cardiothoracic surgery would entail (scope of practice, etc.)? Just looking for some feedback from those who may have been there/done that. Thanks!

[FuturoEnfermera]

I know this post was old but I'd love some info on this too!

[pinoyNP]

Just want to say that it's probably not wise to limit one's training to such a narrow scope unless there is a guaranteed job in the specialty for the program's graduates.

[core0]

Originally Posted by pinoyNP

Just want to say that it's probably not wise to limit one's training to such a narrow scope unless there is a guaranteed job in the specialty for the program's graduates.

If you have an ACNP certification it doesn't necessarily limit you to just CVS. To get the certification you should have to have other exposure besides CVS. To the OP I don't see a particular CVS specialization could you post a link? Where I am the ACNPs that work in the CVICU mostly work for the medicine side of the house (cardiology) or work as part of the surgical ICU team.

David Carpenter, PA-C

[pinoyNP]

Originally Posted by core0

If you have an ACNP certification it doesn't necessarily limit you to just CVS. To get the certification you should have to have other exposure besides CVS. To the OP I don't see a particular CVS specialization could you post a link? Where I am the ACNPs that work in the CVICU mostly work for the medicine side of the house (cardiology) or work as part of the surgical ICU team.

David Carpenter, PA-C

I know that ACNP certification does not limit you to CVS - I am an ACNP myself! But for a program to advertise that the training is focused on Cardiothoracic Surgery sounds pretty limiting to me. Maybe a link to the program will help clear things up.

[Kristiern1]

As an FYI, Vandy's ACNP program is the same as any other ACNP program. You have the ability to subspecialize with additional credit hours. So when I completed my program there I had completed the ACNP coursework and clinical requirements and then completed an additional 3 credit hours and clinical hours in cardiology. Any subspecialty is above and beyond general ACNP requirements.
Hope that helps
Kristie

[Browndog]

Kristie,

Sorry to be off topic on this thread, but I have been accepted into the Vandy ACNP program for this fall and have some questions. Would it be possible to discuss the program off-line with you?

Thanks,

Tim