I've been contemplating going back and getting my NP (peds). For a long time I was only interested in the critical care programs (Duke, Vanderbilt, Rush and Penn) because that's my interest (currently a PICU RN). I've talked with a number of MDs recently and everyone of them said that of the NPs that they worked with who graduated from a critical care program, none of them were able to hit the ground running; they all needed a lengthy preceptorship with training in how to put in lines, intubate, vent management etc.
When I talked with them further, they all said that they would be just as happy with a basic NP degree and that they would train as long as the NP had ICU experience.
Couple that with the fact that from what I've heard, only Penn is a true critical care program, the rest are "acute care" with most of the focus being chronically hospitalized children I'm wondering what the point of doing the specialized programs. They are expensive and not close to where we live (although Vandie and Rush have a significant on line component).
If you've made it this far, my thanks. I'd love your thoughts.