lauren728

Have you thought about a NP/MPH... they have many accelerated programs now... just a thought. I don't really know anyone doing international work, but at least an NP program would be much shorter than an MD program.

I work as a public health nurse, and usually just deal with moms and babies, but doing all home visits. There are other public health nurses in my department who also see older adults, help organize their meds, help with resources, etc. They also visit daycares and do education there, and lice checks, handwashing, flu shot clinics... very broad- but I find public health nsg to be more education, prevention, social workish... Home health is more technical.. giving meds, dealing with lines, wounds, etc.... helping with more intensive 'sick' care, and not so much focused on prevention... at least that's how it is where I live.

I worked in peds in the hospital and did travel nursing, and then after 3 years went into public health. I definitely love it- it really is the only area in nursing that's perfect for me- I couldn't go back to the hospital-it is totally different. I would say that working in the hospital was beneficial, just for the knowledge base I developed.... I don't know many that just started with public health, but that definitely doesn't mean it's not possible. But I would say 1 year would be sufficient. As far as the man thing goes, the only thing I could think of is the comfort level of a female client having a man in the home. That's honestly the only potential issue I could see. Otherwise, I don't see a problem. It might be worth shadowing some PHN's in your community-

I was wondering if most schools require L&D experience... Did you, or others in your class? I have 3 years of Peds, and 1.5 yrs of public health nursing with prenatal/postpartum clients. I'm wondering if it's necessary to work in L&D first. Thanks!

Hi! I made the switch from pediatric hospital nursing to public health (maternal child). I absolutely love it. For myself (and a lot of PHN's), the best things are developing strong relationships with your clients, not focusing on just task oriented things (giving meds on time, running around the hospital, dealing with codes), you're focused on prevention- keeping them healthy, not getting in or back in to the hospital. To do that, you're doing a lot of education- I've felt like an educator, counselor, social worker, and nurse- and I love that. All I have are positive things to say...

Thanks Jayla! I actually got the job, and will be working with pregnant women as well! Do you have any safety tips at all? Or other general tips? I'm really excited about the job!

I'm a pediatric traveling nurse who's interested in public health. I was curious if anyone had any issues/problems doing home visits (if you encountered any sketchy situations). I'm just a young looking 5'0" female, and I just wanted to get some opinions. Also, as far as experience, would people usually hire those without mother/baby or L&D experience for these types of public health positions? THANKS!