Nursing Specialties?

SarasotaRN2b · Dec 19, 2004

Well, I have to say that some already know what area that they would like to go into, although that may change, but it is only when you start getting exposed to some of the specialties that you can find the right fit. I would suggest that you take a look at all the different forums and you'll get a idea. Just keep an open mind because something that you think you might enjoy, may not be the right fit, while something that you may have no interest in now, maybe just that right specialty.

mom2michael, MSN, RN, NP · Dec 20, 2004

As mccnrs2b said, it's good to keep an open mind while in school. You may be 100% gunho for 1 certain field only to be exposed to something totally different and you decide you want to try that instead. There are tons of areas of nursing and you just never know what you might find appealing as you advance through school.

If you think that the NICU is something you would like to do, I encourage you to volunteer if your hospital will allow it. I know some hospitals would LOVE the extra set of hands for an hour or 2 a week.

As far as starting in a specialized field out of school, that depends on where you live. I've known several to finish school and within a week be starting in a specialized unit and then I've known some that had to wait for a few months. Around here in depends on when the openings are and when you applied for the openings.

As far as when you pick a specialized field, I think it actually picks you. You'll have more of an idea when you get closer to finishing school.

Good luck!!!

SmilingBluEyes · Dec 20, 2004

I 2nd the last post. It really is wonderful, sage advice. Keep your mind, eyes, ears and senses open and alert in school. That will be your key to making it through school and learning your specific gifts you can bring to nursing. Best of luck to you.

raindrop · Dec 20, 2004

Hi. this is my first post. I have been a lurker for a couple weeks and absolutely love this place! I'm curious about this Q too...

I will be in my FINAL semester of an ADN program after X-Mas break, and I would love to "specialize" in an area too, but of course, I don't know which area. However, when I do find an area that I would like to specialize in, lets say, cardiac, wouldn't I have to take a special test, or what have you, that PROVES I'm a "specialist" in that area. It seems as if it would have to be on paper before I could dubb myself as such?

SmilingBluEyes · Dec 20, 2004

You are not a specialist until you have experience in a given speciality. And that takes years of experience and time. So do not waste time worrying about "titles and "specializing", and instead reflect more on what interests you and pursue that! Getting certified in a speciality comes MUCH later. You first have to get a start......then concern yourself with specializing.

Also keep in mind: You may change jobs once or twice (or more), before you find your "true love" in nursing. That is quite ok, too. Just keep your options and mind open and follow your heart. Worry about specializing when you have experience enough to do so. Just try and "find yourself" first.

Bjo · Dec 20, 2004

Nurses can become certified or be a nurse specialist. Certified nurses are actually called generalists. It is like SmilingBluEyes said, it takes years of experience and there are areas with criteria that have to be met. I'm not sure, but I think the American Nurses Credentialing Center could answer your questions. If you go to www.nursingworld.org you can click on the link at the top of the page for information.

If you work in several different area, you will be sure to figure out where you want to be. Just be sure to experience a lot of different things before you zone in on one area, unless you are sure about where you want to be. If that is the case, then full steam ahead! :specs:

RN4NICU, LPN, LVN · Dec 20, 2004

Also keep in mind that just because you are specialized, even if you are certified in your specialty, that does not mean that you will never be required to work outside your specialty. Specialty certified RNs are on the "pull list" right along with everyone else. That is why you need to at least have a little knowledge of a lot of things - which is pretty much what you get in school - then you build upon that to become an experienced practitioner in your chosen specialty.

purplemania, BSN, RN · Dec 20, 2004

It is never too early or too late. If you have an idea where you would be happy, then strive for that goal. Our NICU is willing to hire a new grad and give them several months of orientation. Sometimes a nurse will change areas just to stay fresh and not be bored. Don't ever feeled locked in.