Changing Specialty

Nurses Career Support

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Hi Beth! I currently have 8 years nursing experience in Medicine/Oncology/Hospice. I want to change directions and work in womens and childrens. The issue I'm having is facilities will not even entertain the idea of giving me a position because I have no experience. How do I convince them they should give me a shot? Thanks, Erin

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

This is a situation that I am encountering more often these days... experienced nurses that are finding it very difficult to move into a different specialty. In light of the current recruitment "crisis" claimed by many organizations, you'd think that they would be rolling out the red carpet to nurses like OP!

Organizations need to create Fellowships.... programs specifically designed to transition experienced nurses into a new specialty area. Based on my own work, these are much less expensive and easier than new grad residencies or internships. I have found that they produce a real and lasting value. Participants tended to stay with the organization rather than scampering off to greener pastures ASAP after completing the program. It's puzzling to me - why aren't Nurse Fellowships more widely available??

My advice? Find a 'new grad' friendly organization that already has new grad training mechanisms (e.g., residency) for Women's Health... then convince them to let you into that program. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you.

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Thank you! I would have never thought of looking into new grad programs.

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