Nursing student, hopeful CRNI post-graduation

Specialties Infusion

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Hello! I'm currently a nursing student, hoping to graduate in the next year or so. I was wondering what I should do, post-graduation, in order to pursue a career in infusion nursing. I'd love to hear stories on how some of you became infusion nurses, and what made you decide to pursue it as well. Advice is also welcome! Thank you :)

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Specializes in Vascular Access.

Infusion Nursing can be down the road for you, but know that it is recommended that you have 1600 hours of IV therapy experience in the previous two years and a proficiency in CVC management and care BEFORE you attempt to sit for the CRNI exam. It is an examination that is very thorough and one in which you must have comprehensive knowledge of IV therapy to pass.

I'd recommend that you start off knowing the basics of nursing, as there is so much to learn once out of school... then after "your feet " are thoroughly saturated, then, pursue your specialty.

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Get involved in your local INS chapter. We provide CEUs and most chapters have monthly meetings with an annual state conference. You will meet all of your future managers and supervisors at these events...

Most chapters charge little to no membership fee (have to be a national INS member though) and usually the meetings have all the free drinks and food you can have PLUS you get to network AND earn a CEU on an interesting topic!

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Thank you for the replies! :)

I've been looking into senior practicum and have been told to do medsurg or oncology by my professors. What would you suggest I do in order to prepare myself for infusion nursing? During my first few years as a nurse in either field, I intend to study for the CRNI examination and join the local chapter in my area once I have a national INS#.

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