FNP > RNFA (DNP question)

[Julia77]

I am working on my FNP....

I am wanting to really improve my suture skills, but have all ED experience, no OR.

Any suggestions for DNP programs that incorporate RNFA skills, additional suturing and surgical assist?

Thanks,

Julia

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Having not researched DNP programs, I can't say whether or not what you're seeking exists. However, my guess would be not, as an advanced practice degree isn't required to be an RNFA and the vast majority of NPs aren't RNFAs. AORN (the professional organization for OR nurses) does provide some resources for those looking into becoming RNFAs.

[scottaprn]

You need to focus on finding a clinical experience that will give you want you want. It sounds like you want some OR time so look for a rotation with a surgeon. The only way you are going to learn these skills is to do them repeatedly.

I learned to first assist in a clinical for the surgeon I work for now.

[Julia77]

Thanks, Rose Queen.

Not sure I'm seeing what I need here (suture skills workshop, please!) and I don't think the RNFA is the designation I'm going for. But do want to improve my hands on skill set with sutures.

Julia

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

If you are currently working in the ER, check with your suture rep. Mine periodically offers a suturing workshop for those of us in the OR who close small incisions, EP techs who close pacer pockets, etc.

[Julia77]

I will! Thanks! :)

[Alicia777, MSN, NP]

I'm a new FNP/RNFA. The DNP part offers no edge. Focus on getting an internship with a surgeon as the PP suggested and also look into a PeriOP 101 courses offered by local colleges.

I'm happy to offer answers to RNFA questions or using it as an NP (my limited experience) if you'd like to PM..

Good luck

[PG2018]

I don't know where my reply went.

Try workshops that are devoted to "advanced" suturing techniques. Then find clinical sites where people are getting cut open a lot. When I worked in an urgent care setting we got 4-5 lacs a day to sew up. There was usually an abscess to incise and pack as well. A primary care clinic might have some I&D, mole, and toe nail removal. I think urgent care and ED would give you a lot of splinting and wrapping experience too. Clearly, you're not going to be the one doing it. Leave that to a nurse or tech, but you get experience reading films and figuring out the best splint.

Try nursepractitionerskills.com. There's a workshop held over the course of a few days that cover some of the things NP training typically doesn't. I'm really interested in this because I like knowing stuff whether I work in that capacity or not.