NP in the ICU

We have a few NP's working in our ICU's that cover several MD's on nights but they are ACNP. The best I can offer is call some of the local hospitals in your area and ask if they would hire a FNP to the ICU or check their websites for listings and requirements.

I would check the websites. I've looked at my local hospitals and for the most part they don't specify FNP or ACNP. However, unless you have a lot of ICU experience as an RN they would probably hire an ACNP over you if one has applied.

Every PICU job I've seen and applied for have specified AC PNP. I know one FNP working in a PICU, but that's because he's going back to school to get his AC PNP. Even the states that don't formally require AC for ICU work seem to be looking for AC certified people. You might be able to find a job somewhere at a small hospital, but I would think it would be difficult to get hired since you will be competing against the ACNPs. Also the FNP I know had worked ER and primary care for years before getting hired into the ICU. Maybe if you had some experience first that would help as well.

I don't know about FNP's, but at one time, we had an ANP that worked for our intensivist service. She has since moved into another area of the hospital, and an ACNP has filled her role. We have had FNP's to work as hospitalists, which at times, make rounds on patients in the ICU's but did not work as an intensivist only.

I am a FNP who works with a neurosurgeon. We are on call this weekend and I have spent multiple hours in the ICUs. This does not seem to be a problem at any hospitals so far. I have has precious icu experience as an RN and I am also a CNRN. I do not insert central lines, arterial line, or intubate. I am working in gaining privileges to insert icp monitors. This is established by documentation, research, and direct observation. In our Nurse Practice Act, buy providing this information AND being observed once a year by physician, nurse practitioners can increase their skill set legally.

Hello all,

I am a new grad FNP and I really want to start working in the ICU. Can anyone tell me where and in which states would allow FNPs to work in the ICU? I don't think I can go back and get my ACNP certificate, I'd rather start working right away if possible. Thanks in advance!

New Hampshire ! :)