by henryswife

Very Curious can a new nurse with her adn become a public/community health nurse.If not what steps do you take to become one?

Re: Can Adn's Be Public Health Nurses?

Yes, RN-ADNs can be public health nurses. I even know of LVNs/LPNs who are public health nurses.

Re: Can Adn's Be Public Health Nurses?

where do you apply to become an PHN?

Re: Can Adn's Be Public Health Nurses?

Originally Posted by henryswife

where do you apply to become an PHN?

A good start would be your local county public health clinic.

Re: Can Adn's Be Public Health Nurses?

Originally Posted by henryswife

Very Curious can a new nurse with her adn become a public/community health nurse.If not what steps do you take to become one?

just to add...and confirm....I graduated in June as an ADN RN....Boards July,..... August, working in a community health center as their adult med nurse.

But I miss Bedside....and felt I was loosing in patient skills...so Just accepted a hospital new grad position. start January 14th.

But if you know you will stay in community/public health nursing...then its a great place to be.....no nights and just one sat a month......some do not even work weekends.

all the best.

Re: Can Adn's Be Public Health Nurses?

I worked for one year in ICU out of nursing school. Though it was exciting, I had to get away from that daily stress and horrible night shift work and 12 hour shifts.I only have my ADN. The job advertised a BSN preferred but I got the job anyway. It pays less than the hospital, but I do not regret it one bit. You can apply by going to your state website too.
Good luck

Re: Can Adn's Be Public Health Nurses?

I get paid a little less but I don't have to buy uniforms! I have only my nursing school rotation as psychiatric nursing experience (I graduated in 1997) I have worked med-surg for most of my nursing career and wanted a M-F, 9-5 type of job. 15-60 minutes with my clients every week is more than enough for me. How I ever put up with BPD clients for a full 12 hours before I will never know!!