Desiring to be a CNO

[WCSNurse]

Hello,

My desire is to become a CNO at a medium to large size acute care facility. However, majority of my nursing and management experience has been in women's & children's services. I'm currently a director of this service line at a 500 beds facility. I also work on a prn basis as an administrative house supervisor. Has been in this prn position for 1 year now which has allowed me to gain some leadership experience outside of the women's & children's services area. I have a MSN in executive administration and a MSM (Master of Science in Management). I'm being considered for a CNO position at a 50 bed leading rehab acute care facility but not sure if I'd be making the right move. Will this experience as a CNO at this rehab facility give me the experience needed to advance to the CNO level at a non-rehab acute care facility? Please help! Decisions, decisions!!

[jrt4]

I am in no position to suggest what search committees are looking for in a CNO but I would think that experience as a CNO in any capacity would give you a bump. The CNOs I have worked under have had a variety of backgrounds. Its important to remember you will have people under you (directors, AVPS) that are the clinical experts that ultimately influence your decisions.

[WCSNurse]

jrtaylor4, thanks for your response!

[jdethman]

I am not qualified to answer but congratulations!

[Ahhphoey]

I know this thread is old, but I work at a 550 need level 1 trauma center Magnet designated hospital. Our current and most recent CNOs both had women's health back rounds almost exclusively.