My journey as an APRN began in 2000 when I graduated from the University of Kentucky. I achieved my certification as a FNP with the ANCC (I was young and did not know any better...) Upon graduation the career opportunities in the Central Kentucky area were limited. But I only needed one opportunity to open and a few weeks after graduation I was offered a full time position in a growing podiatry practice. In talking with several NP's and fellow students I was advised that I may inevitably be hurting my career opportunities by taking the position. After all... Who had ever heard of a NP working with a podiatrist. Was it even legal in Kentucky? Did I know enough about the foot and ankle to effectively care for patients?
After doing the research, I found that it was legal to work in collaboration with a DPM and since I have never been one to follow the path of least resistance, I accepted the position. As far as having a knowledge base that would allow me to be an excellent foot and ankle clinician, that would come years later as I have spent several hundred hours of self study to gain the experience and confidence that I have today in treating many common and complicated foot and ankle pathology.
In speaking with many Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Physical Therapist and MD's/DO's, I have come to the conclusion that adequate training and education in foot and ankle care is missing in our educational experience. With this blog, I hope to introduce you to some interesting case studies, offer effective and research based practice guideline suggestions and provide video education on performing common foot and ankle procedures.
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