How to get into HIV/AIDS nursing

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Hi yall!

I've known for most of my life that I have an ABSOLUTE PASSION for the HIV/AIDS population. I simply cannot learn enough about it. I am currently getting my BSN and will graduate in December 2010, and have every intention of becoming a public health nurse (PHN) when I graduate. I volunteer as a community education speaker at the local non-profit HIV/AIDS agency, but most of their positions are either a) not nursing related at all or b) nursing related, but unpaid.

My question: I know there is some sort of need for HIV/AIDS nurses. My problem is, I have NO IDEA how to get into working with this demographic, or what positions I should be looking for.

Should I:

-go to graduate school? If so, would it be more beneficial to get a Masters in Public Health (an MPH, non-nursing degree), or an MSN with a Public Health focus? Or does it not really matter?

-Do I need any other sorts of certifications?

-Where else should I look for a job in HIV/AIDS?

PLEASE HELP!

VivaRN

520 Posts

Join your local Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (ANAC) chapter. They can help you with what opportunities are available in your area.

Another resource may be your local AIDS Education and Training Center (AETC). Find yours under "directory"

Home - Association of Nurses in AIDS Care

http://www.aids-ed.org/

A lot of it depends on where you are in the country.

Good luck!

uniqwa76

6 Posts

Hello,

We're aiming for the same goal! I def want to do HIV/AIDS nursing as will. I know it's been 2yrs since this post, so I'm curious how has things worked out for you?

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