Introduction
I would like to specialize as a family nurse practitioner (FNP) and an infection control nurse (ICN). Although FNPs have always been in demand, there has been a recent shortage of family practitioners, which has led to an increase in the number of FNPs taking up more posts in primary health care, especially in underserved communities. The main role of the ICN is to identify, create and apply best practices in sanitation and infection control. In connection with the current situation in the world, in my opinion, both professions are especially relevant.
FNP Characteristics and Requirements
As with any medical field, I understand that it takes time to become a Family Nurse Practioner. It is highly recommended to obtain a BSN from an accredited university program. I will also need to obtain a license and work as a registered nurse to become familiar with a wide range of nursing techniques before applying for the chosen master’s program. In addition to my cutting-edge knowledge of patient care and preventive care, FNP practice is highly dependent on the ability to adapt to a wide range of patient needs. I will also learn to communicate effectively and educate my patients and their families and have a strong teamwork ethic. According to Johnson & Johnson’s recommendations, a Master’s in Science of Nursing program is needed for family nursing work to provide me with a deeper understanding of the theoretical application of family nursing. I will develop a dynamic knowledge of illness management, research best practices, and leadership skills within the mentioned programs. Depending on the program’s intensity, I can complete my MSN in two to three years.
So, I should get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and then pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse. I must have at least one year of real-life experience as a Registered Nurse to become a Family Nurse Practitioner before I apply for my MSN. Then I should get my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Then I should get my Family Nurse Practitioner Board Certification from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center. My board certification relies on my passing this examination which assesses my entry-level skills and clinical competencies. Then I will be ready to work as an FNP.
ICN Characteristics and Career Requirements
The Infection Control Nurse, also known as the Infection Prevention Nurse, helps prevent and detect the spread of infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses in the healthcare environment. ICNs are meticulous and attentive to detail and can effectively pass on best practices to their peers to ensure the patient’s safety at the facility. Understanding the risks associated with different infectious agents is critical in dealing with both localized infections and broader outbreaks. These nurses are born innovators and problem solvers and are always at the forefront of modern healthcare solutions.
An Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the standard minimum requirement for ICNs, but I may prefer to hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN). As it is with most nursing specialties, before entering a specialized field, I must first work as a registered nurse at least for one year to create a solid base of hands-on and up-to-date experience. After that, once I have the necessary education and training, a certification exam, courtesy of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) must be passed. When I complete it, I will be ready to begin my journey as a registered Infection Control Nurse. If I choose to earn my ADN or BSN, my whole academic path to get specialized as an Infection Control Nurse can take up to four years. If I decide to pursue my education further by earning my Master’s in Public Health (MPH), this will add from two to five years, based on the program’s intensity. I should pass the NCLEX-RN and then work as a Registered Nurse.
So, to become an ICN, I must have at least one year of experience as a Registered Nurse. That is before I apply for an MPH program; if that is the path I choose to take. I should be attentive and engaged and use the knowledge I gain to inform future decisions. Then I should pass my Infection Control Certification Exam from the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology. Passing this exam shows future employers that I have mastered core competencies and know the best practices surrounding Infection control and preventive care. The medical field in general is a sphere with rapidly changing information, so it is essential to make it clear that I am informed on all aspects of modern care methods. Then I will be ready to work as an ICN.
I studied the list of organizations that can issue me a certificate:
- Medical Surgical Nursing Certification Board (MSNCB).
- Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN®).
- Certified in Care Coordination and Transition Management (CCCTM®).
- Orthopedic Nurse Certification (ONC®).
- Radiologic Nursing Certification Board (RNCB).
- Certified Radiology Nurse (CRN®).
- Rehabilitation Nursing Certification Board (RNCB).
- Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN®).
My Future Plans According to the Information I Got
Having studied the requirements and qualifications required for both specialties, I realize that my career path will not be easy. First of all, I need to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and then pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse. It is worth starting with a degree, as it will be required for further work anyway. Then I plan to work as a Registered Nurse as work experience is required for further education. The fields that I have chosen require constant advanced training, so the modern experience is essential for me. Only after gaining knowledge of general practice, I will be able to take the exam to obtain a certificate. To receive my certification, I will choose one of the most suitable organizations for me. If I want to pursue further education, I can take a Master’s in Public Health (MPH). This choice may take several more years, but I can make it only after receiving primary education.
Choosing the profession of a nurse, I understand that my education should be as complete as possible. Regardless of which specialty I choose, I need to get a basic education first. However, in my opinion, it is worth all the effort because my main goal is to help people. When I become a Family Health Nurse or an Infection Control Nurse, my main goal will be to maintain professional ethics and maximize patient care. After receiving a basic education, I plan to articulate my professional goals more clearly and finally choose a career path for the next few years.
Reference
Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc. (2021). Nursing Specialties. Web.