NNP do I really want to?

[paris6]

Hi everyone!

I am new to the forum and I could really use some help :). Here's my story.... I have one more year left to complete my bachelor's in psychology but want to do an accelerated BSN after I am done with that. I want to become a nurse and work in the NICU. It has always been my dream and passion and I really think it's a perfect fit for me. I was then hoping to continue my education and get my NNP. I just had a couple questions about that. I was reading on a few threads about NNP hours... so most NNPs have to work 12 hour shifts rotating? what exactly does that mean? is it difficult to have a family and do this career? Is it possible to work part time? Also, I really want to be taking care of the neonates, but I fear that as a NNP I am not going to have much direct patient care because of the nature of the job. Could anyone who is an NNP walk me through their day? I am looking to shadow one in my area, but am having a hard time finding one. I just really want to know how much time you actually get to spend in patient care and how much is spent allocating duties and doing paperwork. Also, would all of you suggest that I work for 2 years after my accelerated BSN before applying to NNP school, or could I work during NNP school to get my two years in? I don't want to be unprepared when I actually get into the field, so your advice would be helpful. I'm just beyond frustrated with trying to figure out what I want to do, so ANY advice/comments would be extremely appreciated. Thanks in advance!!

[SteveNNP, MSN, NP]

My advice to you is to get your RN license and get into a NICU before worrying about getting your NNP. While it's a good idea to think ahead, you need to focus on one step at a time. Many people change their minds about what unit they want to work on while in nursings school, I know I did.....

Most grad schools are requiring 2 years experience to GRADUATE and sit for your NNP certification. I would recommend you get at least one of those years in before starting grad school.

Rotating shifts means you rotate between 7a-7p and 7p-7a. Here where I work, the NNPs work 6 nights and 7 day shifts a month. Not all places do it this way, so it will depend on your facility. Nearly all NNPs work in a hospital setting. The NNPs where I work spend the majority of their time at the bedside doing procedures, writing orders, attending deliveries, etc....they do have their own set of paperwork...They each cover around 8-10 pts per shift. I hope this helps!!

SteveRN21