I have 4 years of experience as an RN, all of my experience being in Intensive Care (ICU). Although I love my job, I cannot ignore this incredible urge to seek out and help our children on the autism spectrum. Does anyone know what kind of positions may be out there for nurses? I've considered school nurse and psychiatric inpatient care... These jobs just don't seem to pinpoint the level of help I feel I have the power to give.
Thank you!
Have you checked to see if there are autism specialists in your area? Or perhaps there are general pediatricians or family practice doctors who work with a lot of patients on the autism spectrum. Also, if you have something like a Birth to Three Developmental Program in your state, you can contact them to see if they have any recommendations for places where you can begin to get involved.
Our neurologist has a wonderful Nurse Practitioner on her staff. Before she joined the neurology clinic, she used to work with DD's developmental pediatrician. So yes, there are positions out there for working with kids on the spectrum as a NP.
Try volunteering at your neighborhood school.
Occupational Therapy, but that would require more education.