FNP question

[Losingfaith]

I'm in the process of applying to FNP programs and have decided after graduation I would like to work with victims of domestic violence, including children, teens and adult women. I plan of volunteering to get some experience in the area, as my regular RN job is on a cardiac telemetry unit.

My questions are 1.) Does the FNP make the most sense for the area I'd like to work in? 2.) Will my RN experience be a hindrance since I'm working with cardiac pt's now? 3.) Does anyone work in a clinic where they see these types of patients?

Thanks for any responses!

[Amanda.RN]

What kind of work would you like to do with this patient population? The two degrees I commonly think of when considering care for domestic violence victims would be (1) a social worker who specializes in crisis situations, like domestic violence and elder abuse or neglect; and (2) a psychologist who provides counseling for domestic violence victims. On the other hand, as a FNP you may be able to provide counseling-like services, as well as prescribe medications for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions that people may have as a result of domestic violence. Is this what you're looking to do as a FNP?

Whatever you decide, good for you for wanting to further your education and career! Best of luck to you!

Amanda

[mammac5]

I know in the past there were programs specifically for Forensic NPs who would deal with the types of situations you mention. They would also work in crisis situations to perform evidence-gathering, such as collecting rape kits for those who came into ERs for treatment.

I know that the categories of NPs is evolving, but looking for a Forensic FNP (so you could eval & treat both children and adults) may be worth your time. Also it would be great if you could find someone who is working in this capacity now so you may be able to question him/her and (possibly) even shadow for a day or two to get a feel for the work. If you can find a school where this is offered, they may be able to put you in touch with someone to meet/shadow.

[BCgradnurse, MSN, RN, NP]

I know in the past there were programs specifically for Forensic NPs who would deal with the types of situations you mention. They would also work in crisis situations to perform evidence-gathering, such as collecting rape kits for those who came into ERs for treatment.

I know that the categories of NPs is evolving, but looking for a Forensic FNP (so you could eval & treat both children and adults) may be worth your time. Also it would be great if you could find someone who is working in this capacity now so you may be able to question him/her and (possibly) even shadow for a day or two to get a feel for the work. If you can find a school where this is offered, they may be able to put you in touch with someone to meet/shadow.

Good advice. I know that my alma mater, Boston College, has a Forensic NP specialty. I don't know what certifying exam they sit for, but their entire program is geared towards working with the populations you're interested in.

Best of luck to you.

[zoidberg, BSN, RN]

you could:

stay an RN, go into forensic nursing, get SANE certified (dont know much about it)

be a Psych NP, i think there is a family psych np cert, you could maybe be FNP/PMHNP dual certified to expand your scope of practice. you could treat all of the psych issues resulting from violence, abuse, and have some therapy training.

[zoidberg, BSN, RN]

another thought, you could try to get a job in the ER working with psych patients, or in a psych unit, or part time in both. Depending on the ER you may be able to cover patients who are victims of abuse or in a emergency psych condition. that exp. could serve your goals well.