Need Advice!! STUDENT

Luckyyou, BSN, RN · Apr 3, 2014

What do you mean by going the extra two years to be a neonatologist? Neonatologists go to four years of medical school, do a pediatric residency and then a fellowship.

resipenn · Apr 3, 2014

I was told that after I had finished school to become the Nurse Practitioner that I would only need to complete 2 more years of schooling, a residency and a fellowship. I was clearly told wrong, thank you for the input.

babyNP., APRN · Apr 5, 2014

So that it's fully clear:

To be a NNP:

4 year BSN (sometimes in combination with an ADN)

2 years of NICU RN experience (I don't know of any programs that do not require this)

1-3 years for a masters/doctorate

To be a Neonatologist:

4 year bachelor degree

4 year medical school

3 year pediatric residency

3 year neonatology fellowship

There are no US programs that bridge from NP to MD/DO, you'd have to start at square one like everyone else. Best of luck whatever you decide...

ChristineN, BSN, RN · Apr 5, 2014

Have you shadowed or spent any time in a NICU? I would encourage you two before you make such a big life decision that NICU is right for you

resipenn · Apr 5, 2014

Thank you for this imformation, the person I was talking to was not as knowledgeable on the subject as I thought! And to ChristineN, Yes I have spent many hours in a NICU and have also done three shadows in a NICU and a Nursery. I had done hours in other departments as well and always went back to the NICU as my number one choice. I also had a love for the PICU but I found it was a lot harder on me emotionally. I really appreciate all your input and suggestions!