RD to RN

Published

Anyone out there (or know of someone who is) a dietitian that has gone back to get their RN? Just wondering how the experience was, what was easy/hard about the transition and what made or would make someone with both credentials more appealing to employers, if anything. Thanks.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med-Surg.

I'm not sure it would be appealing to employers. However, I would think you would have a heads up in school because you know about A&P, lab values, etc.

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CRNA.

I am a new nurse and have a previous degree in Dietetics...granted, I didn't go on to a dietetic internship or obtain my RD, I just went right onto my nursing degree after graduation. I definitely believe that my prior experience in dietetics helped me land my first nursing job....we really didn't have much nutrition information given to us in nursing school, so it was a major help to have that 'extra' knowledge.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Can I ask what made you choose nursing over dietetics?

I see you are in Chicago. I am, too.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CRNA.

Well, towards the end of my senior year in college as a dietetics major, I realized that jobs were not as plentiful for dietitians as they were for nurses, and I could specialize in a variety of areas as a nurse. Plus, I enjoyed the 'hands-on' aspect of nursing vs. the counseling of a dietitian. Both of my parents and my aunt are nurses as well, so maybe that also had a little something to do with it ;)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion