While working as a nurse practitioner, you may have thought about branching out and gaining some new skills. And, if you are thinking of bringing your career to a whole new level then adding Botox training to your repertoire could be the answer.
Botulinum toxin (also known as Botox) has been used for years to smooth out wrinkles on the face and neck. These days it’s being used in various body parts, such as the underarms, stomach, and buttocks.
As the demand for Botox increases, so does the need for skilled nurses to perform these injections. Some nursing boards are seeing this trend and are now recognizing that Botox certification for nurses can provide all-inclusive services to patients who want to stay looking more youthful and fresh.
What does it Entail?
To be a Botox injection nurse, you’ll need to acquire the proper training and licensing. At present, there are no federal regulations in place requiring practitioners who administer botulinum toxin to certify their knowledge. However, some states regulate this practice via nursing boards or legislation, such as California and New Jersey.
To become licensed to give Botox injections, you’ll typically need to be a nurse who is trained in dermatology. You’ll likely need to complete at least 40 hours of training to become certified, but this number varies by state.
Once you’ve completed the necessary courses, you must pass an exam administered by the state Board of Nursing or other agencies responsible for registering nurses within your state.
The demand for trained nurses is so high that some training programs offer on-the-job clinical rotations. These are typically available to students who have just graduated with their nurse practitioner degrees and are looking for Botox jobs. Still, they’re also open to more seasoned practitioners who want to stay relevant by learning how to perform these injections.
Here is how it can boost your career prospects:
Experience the Upliftment of a Growing Field
If you’re looking to get into a growing career, this is one option that will help you stand out among other nurse practitioners. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported a significant increase in minimally invasive procedures, with Botox injections being one, in the past five years.
While it’s true that nurses are working fewer hours overall, this can be a beneficial area for you to grow your career.
Become Indispensable to Incoming Patients
Having a Botox certification can make you one of the first people patients seek out since you can help them with visits for Botox injections and offer other treatments to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. This field is broadening as more procedures become available; therefore, it’s important to offer your patients everything available.
Become a Specialist and Leader
Since the demand for skilled nurses is increasing, you can potentially become a leader in your area by training other nurses and doctors. By adding Botox training to your resume, you can work alongside dermatologists and plastic surgeons who may ask you to help with procedures that fall outside of your job description.
This approach will increase your value to prospective employers, who may be looking for nurses who can do more than one thing.
Help Doctors and Hospitals Build Their Brand
No matter what area of nursing you get into, you should help doctors and hospitals build their brand. This can do wonders for a practice’s bottom line. Nurse practitioners who take this route can work extra hours and be in high demand.
Offer Specialized, Exclusive Services
Your Botox certification means you have skills other nurse practitioners don’t. It can give your doctor an edge when building a client base since patients want the best for their appearance. Offering exclusive, cutting-edge services in this area is one way to set yourself apart and be in the best position to provide the best care possible.
Start Your Clinic
It is one way to build your brand, create a niche in the medical community and help others look great. If you want to expand your reach and impact even more lives, starting your clinic would allow you the chance to branch out.
Being able to offer Botox training can set you up for success when it comes to running your clinic, as you’ll have a wide range of services to offer patients.
It’s important to note that nurse practitioners aren’t the only ones who can offer Botox treatments. There is a certification process available, allowing other advanced practice nurses and physician assistants to help increase their value in this specialized area of healthcare. It may be worthwhile for you to become certified too.
