NP's working on their old units

Advanced Practice Columnist / Guide · Feb 6, 2014

I haven't worked in the same unit where I was a staff nurse. However, I have 7 co-workers who were ICU nurses in the units we round on now prior to graduating from their ACNP program and now working as NP's. It hasn't been a problem as I can see. But one's experience does not always translate to a similar experience somewhere else since unit culture varies widely in different hospitals.

RNinNYstate · Feb 6, 2014

I work on a Neuro floor. One of our night RN's got his FNP and now works for a medical group across the street. He rounds on our patients (same unit where he used to work) 5 days a week. He is very respected. I don't see any problems.

SteveNNP, MSN, NP · Feb 8, 2014

I worked as an RN on my unit for 3 years before graduating with my NP and transitioning to a NNP job in my same unit. I've had no issues. I think if you're competent and get along reasonably well with your coworkers you'll be fine. And never forget where you came from, your RN roots. That will be the quickest way you can make your life miserable at work. NPs with a false sense of superiority are the worst.

automotiveRN67 · Feb 11, 2014

I worked in an ICU where one of the nurses completed NP, and was hired by the hospital as the first critical care NP for that department. No one liked her. A couple of pulomonologists didn't even want her to round on their patients. But, no one liked her before she graduated either. It really depends on your personal skills. If you don't get along with the staff now, moving up won't make it better.

twinmommy+2, ADN, BSN, MSN · Feb 11, 2014

I appreciate your answers everyone. So the general consensus is that they would have to get along with people prior to the degree. Thanks again!