What type of nursing experience is best for becoming an NP?

[AlisonBSN]

I'm a new BSN grad, and I'm starting the 2-year NP program next month. I would assume that a Med/Surg background would be preferred for NPs, but I have the oppurtunity to work in the OR, which is what I'd rather do. I work on the Med/Surg floor now as a tech and I REALLY don't like it. I hope to do lots of different things with my degree, but I don't want to mess up by specializing so early on... and I doubt my OR knowledge would be related to things in the NP field.

So...What type of nursing background is preferred for Nurse Practitioners? Or does it even matter? And to all the NPs...what's your pre-NP experience?

Maybe I should switch to Clinical Nurse Specialist...any suggestions?

Thanks,

AlisonBSN

[lesrn2005]

usc 2001 - A BIG CONGRATS TO YOU! I currently struggle with going for my fnp license - have done rn transitions into the programs for 1st semester so far. I'm a RN for almost 2 yrs, now, worked med-surg for 9 mos. (that's all I could take on a critical care med-surg floor), and have been hospice case manager for 11 mos. I work homes and facilities. That should be enough, eh?, to get me thru fnp?

[HM2VikingRN, RN]

I would reccommend getting experience before starting an MSN program. I just finished my FNP program (yesterday, actually, I graduated). When I started I had 2yrs experience in L&D. I then switched to Home Health for the past yr. Its not impossible by any means, but you could tell a difference between the RNs in the program with at least 2yrs and the ones who went straight out of school. I think they had a harder time grasping and remembering some things because they did not have the work experience to relate to.

On another note I would highly reccomend Home Health to anyone considering FNP or Adult NP. I have learned so much and seen so much in my year in HH. It is also helpful to be on your own and teaches you independence. Good Luck!

Thanks for the hint! I am in an accelerated RN program. I really want to become a FNP. Is there a specific kind of experience that I should check out for my synthesis class?

(As an HM in the navy I worked a lot of primary care and just love the challenge.) I have to stay at my present job until 2010. (Pension reasons) and HH is something that I could work in while finishing my pension.)

[HM2VikingRN, RN]

I would agree, home health is excellent. Walk-in clinics, Community health clinics and EDs are also great for clinical prep.

Thanks for the great ideas!