about using AP

Xiaobaitu,

I am still confused about using AP. I am H-1.It will expire in 2009. I have got my AP and is planning to return to China this Christmas. I checked out the article about using AP. It seems that it doesn't matter whether I will use AP to reenter the U.S or not, am I right? So it is unnecessary for me to get my H-1 B visa stamp at American consulate in China.
But my situation is a little different. I came to the U.S on F2 visa and changed F1 and H1.I am the co-applicant for 1-485. I have never returned to China since I entered the U.S. So the visa on my passport is still F2. Based on this situation, should I go to the American consulate in China for visa stamp before I reenter U.S or just use AP to return to the U.S?

Thanks a lot