Best NP Track for me...

[my3suns]

Hi All!

I am currently in my 3rd semester of an RN program, I have also already sent in my app for my RN to BSN online to start next fall. I am really interested in becoming a PNP. I really like the idea of ACPNP but I cant move to another area for school (DH owns a business that is our main source of income). So my question is.. If I want to work in critical care peds units do I do PNP and try to work my way into to more acute settings or do I do acute care NP and try to work my way into a peds unit? I do feel later on in life my PNP will allow me the chance to go into practice outside the hospital setting but I just dont know which way is the best to go:uhoh3:!

Any helpful info is much appreciated!! Thanks

[Trauma NP/PA]

First and foremost, I'm not a PNP, but I've a couple PNP friends.

It really depends on if you really like pediatric and that's all you wanted to do. If you get a PNP, you will definitely be the first choice in doing anything with Peds, either critical or non-critical. But from what I know, you'll only do peds. I've never seen a PNP do anything else other than peds.

As a ACNP, you'll mostly work with teenager to adult (MOSTLY adult), it's harder to get into peds. Pediatric and adult are so different. I have friends that are FNP getting into Peds, but they usually will hire PNP before FNP or ACNP.

If you can get into ACPNP that would be ideal!!!

Also, I'm not sure about private peds practice, but I know a couple PNP doing Peds clinic, it's definitely possible.

[APatriganiRN]

I'm also looking for NP programs (ACNP in my case). I've looked into the cirriculums/ plans of study each has to offer, and I noticed University of South Carolina offers two Pediatric classes that are not mandatory, but would qualify you for pediatric NP licensure. I'm sure they can't possibly be the only program that would offer this option, maybe a school close to you may have a similar opportunity.