MarkPICU

Thanks for your reply Juan Unfortunately there are no Children's hospitals in my region. Out of the four PICUs in my area only one utilizes ACPNP, and they work the night shift. The PICUs here are 12 to 14 beds. The hospital I am currently at is working on expanding its PICU and two of the other PICUs are currently taking bids for a new intensivist group which may open up some opportunities. As of now I don't think I would want to work in a PICU, only round on consulted patients due to the limited need for them in the PICU at the moment. As well I have two friends currently in ACPNP programs and a third about to start, if any positions were available they would get to them first. For this reason, I was thinking of broadening my scope with the FNP but also try and specialize if its possible with the FNP. I would love to do the ACPNP, just worried I'll have a harder time finding a job.

Hi everyone, I've been a Texas PICU nurse for the last 6 years and have decided to apply to graduate school. I have been having a hard time deciding between ACPNP or FNP. I would like to specialize in Pediatric Neurology or Cardiology. However, I understand job opportunities in that field are not as abundant. I believe the area i live in doesn't have a great need for ACPNP in the ICU setting so am worried that pursing the ACPNP would significantly limit my job opportunities. For that reason, I've considered FNP for its broad scope. Does anyone know if you can specialize in Pediatric neurology or cardiology with an FNP or do you need an ACPNP? I know I may not get my dream job right out of school, and some experience may be needed before I find that type of position which is why I was thinking FNP would afford me more opportunities. Ultimately I would like to see pediatric neurology/cardiology consults inpatient and outpatient if that is possible. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thank you