Pulmonary NP, PLEASE answer

Yes, there are ACNPs and FNPs that work pulmonary and critical care.

Hi there,

I am an ACNP who works in an ICU and manages patients on and off vents. I manage vent settings, monitor ABGs, place central and arterial lines, intubate, place chest tubes and perform thoracentesis. I preround, round with the attending and give my plan of care. Sometimes the attending wants to manage things differently, that's ok; I am new in the role and learning a ton! I manage the vent but also everything else. So I don't want to give the illusion I am pulmonary only. I manage cardiac, nutrition, ABD, everything...but pulmonology is part of it. My attendings are anesthesiologists so I tend to be heavily focused on cardio-respiratory.

I did have a job offer from a pulmonologist to work in both the hospital performing H&Ps for new pulmonology consults and follow-up patients in the office. He also had a sleep study that I would have helped with as well. There were likely other things with that position, that I dont recall. I didn't take that position...it didn't feel right with the person. But I remember the position sounded pretty cool.

I think the decision between ACNP and FNP is if you want inpatient or outpatient environment and the patient population you want to work with. Not saying either one is 100% set in stone. But it may help you if you can make that determination. I think the oppty is there for either and upon graduation there should probably be work to be found. However, if you want to go the MD route...thats an option to consider well. I am 43 yo...couldn't recoup the financial debt. Plus I honestly love being a nurse. These are hard decisions my friend. How about shadowing both an FNP and ACNP around to get a feel then find someone in your area in pulmonary. It may help you. If you live in Cincinnati PM me...you could follow me.

Tracey

Thank you everyone for replying to my post. Everyone has given me great advice and responses. Lifelong, I will be PM you. I live in Central Illinois but will make the trip to Cincinnatti. Unfortunately I can't find ACNP around here, only FNP.