Hello everyone, I have a long term goal of becoming a NNP, but do not have any NICU experience aside from being cross-trained there. I would love to have a mentor who can help guide me in obtaining this goal of mine. Currently serve in the military and background is in OB. 0 Likes
babyNP., APRN Specializes in NICU. Has 14 years experience. 1,920 Posts Nov 12, 2014 Most, if not all programs require at least 1-2 years experience in a NICU. Do you think the military would let you work in the NICU for that amount of time? 0 Likes
SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN 13 Articles; 2,058 Posts Nov 12, 2014 Honestly, I know the Army doesn't utilize NNPs. I'm not aware of any other branch that does, either.@babyRN, the military does use specific AOCs and identifiers for nursing specialties. In the Army, it's typically the 66G series (OB/GYN nurse) that gets trained in the NICU.The military heavily favors PAs (for reasons unknown). They're not big on the NP role yet. Unless the Navy or AF utilizes NNPs, I don't know that you'll find a military mentor.Are you looking long-term and expecting to utilize your GI bill to get your NNP, then practice on the civilian side? 0 Likes
BabyRN21 32 Posts Nov 12, 2014 Thanks for the insight SoldierNurse22. Do you mind if I send you a private message? 0 Likes
cherrybombRN Specializes in NICU. Has 7 years experience. 3 Posts Nov 26, 2014 I am a Active Duty Air Force NICU RN. Neither the Air Force or Navy utilize NNP's. Air Force seperates NICU and OB nurses differently by afsc's. My afsc is 46n3F/ OB is 46n3G. My advice to you would be dependant on your current branch of service. If you are Air Force I would recommend going to the NICU course in San Antonio, with follow on at SAMMC or Kadena (this will add two yrs to your ADSC) . You will learn so much at either location. Outside of the AF I don't believe that you will find a branch of service that would "speciality train" you. To stay active duty and be a practicing NNP is ,unfortunetly, not currently an option. Let me know if you need any other help. 0 Likes