How to become a holistic nurse?

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Specializes in LTC, Pediatrics.

Hello!

I am an LPN who wants to pursue a career in alternative health. I have been looking in to holistic nursing, and I am very interested....I am just confused as to how I can get certified. I am willing to go on for my RN and or BSN. Any info would be great!

Thanks! :heartbeat

Megan

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

here you go:

certification in holistic nursing

certification in holistic nursing is obtained through the american holistic nurses certification corporation (ahncc). ahncc is the only national credentialing corporation for holistic nursing. ahncc works with the ahna as both organizations support and facilitate the understanding and growth of holistic nursing.

for your convenience ahna has provided a brief synopsis of ahncc certification.

to learn more about holistic nursing certification, please visit the ahncc web site at www.ahncc.org or call margaret erickson at (877) 284-0998

the holistic nursing certification process involves completion of an application, a written component, and the examination.

http://www.ahna.org/education/certification/tabid/1211/default.aspx

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Specializes in Ante-Intra-Postpartum, Post Gyne.

My BSN program is one of three holistic nursing programs out of the country. When I graduate I am eligible to sit for the holistic nursing certification exam. My school is one of those three that allows this opportunity to sit for the exam.

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what schools are you referring to?

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What type of facility does a holistic nurse work in?

If you are just a holistic nurse in say a med/surg or psych floor, would you be given a chance to use the knowledge you gained?

Or is the certificate where it ends?

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Specializes in Cardiac Nursing.

I am also interested in Holistic Nursing. After looking at the American Holistic Nurses Association website, and checking on the certification process I was dismayed to see I had to have a BSN. I just got my ADN, and though I am not yet legally an RN I am disappointed to see that I have to continue my education to get certification. Granted I do plan to get my BSN, but I feel ADN's should be able to get certifications too.

I also think to be a Holistic Nurse, one needs to also work on themself a bit. Find out who I really am so I can help others so to speak. I also think that holistic thinking helps not only our patients, but ourself as well.

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There is a CE thru AHNA, zoobyli, a large portion of which addresses just that. It is called 'Foundations of Holistic Nursing.' I finished it last month. You can access it at www.ahna.org through their education link. I highly recommend it as an introduction to holistic nursing.

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Specializes in Cardiac Nursing.
There is a CE thru AHNA, zoobyli, a large portion of which addresses just that. It is called 'Foundations of Holistic Nursing.' I finished it last month. You can access it at www.ahna.org through their education link. I highly recommend it as an introduction to holistic nursing.

Thanks for the CE information. Wow 54 CE's, that's most states requirement several times over.

The training is good in any hospital setting correct? I'm wanting to work critical care, specifically NICU if I can get in. I think it would help alot for both the patient and the parents.

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I think holistic education, like most education, enhances your work in any arena including at home and in your community. If it only taught you to take care of yourself to prevent burnout, that alone would benefit your nursing.

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Specializes in Burnout & Resiliency Coaching for Nurses.

I am going to the only accredited program for a Masters in Herbal Science in the USA starting in September! I am so psyched. Just thought I would pass it on. ;)

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Specializes in family practice.
What type of facility does a holistic nurse work in?

If you are just a holistic nurse in say a med/surg or psych floor, would you be given a chance to use the knowledge you gained?

Or is the certificate where it ends?

Hi-

I'm new to the forums, so my reply to you is a bit late. Your question is a common one. I wondered the same thing, until I learned what being holistic really means. I've been certified in holistic nursing since 1999, and like many holistic nurses, I have worked in a variety of settings. I'm a family NP now, and even in a busy clinic setting, I deliver holistic care. Holistic nursing is about caring for the 'whole' person-body, mind and spirit. I believe that every nurse and nursing student should first be holistic, and then choose an area of nursing to practice that holistic philosophy. Many nursing theories are built around this. You might learn modalities and other aspects of healing in relation to body-mind and spirit but the basic philosophy is in how you practice. I was a holistic nurse long before I ever heard of 'holistic nursing.' I know I'm in good company. I suspect that if a nurse are attracted to the study of holistic nursing, then they are already a holistic nurse. Best wishes on your journey! :nurse: I look forward to hearing all about it.

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Hi HolisticNP,

Thank you for your post. Is there an NP program that's geared towards Holistic Nursing? Thank you!

:)

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