Re: Advantages to being and FNP? Originally Posted by allopurinol 
I'm a med/surg ICU nurse. I've been an RN for 3 years, and I think it's time for me to go back to school for an NP. I'm just not sure what area to do it in. I love critical care, but I'm not sure I want to be in the hospital setting for the rest of my life. Does anyone have any advice for me? I'm thinking of possibly doing FNP, but I'm concerned about finding a job after finishing. Is it hard to find a good job as an FNP? And will I make enough money above what I make as an RN to compensate the cost of grad school? I'd appreciate any input. Thanks!
I would definitely recommend that you get the FNP certification, because you will have the broadest scope of practice than any other specialty.
I don't know where you live, but if they're hiring NP's, then they are most definitely hiring FNP's.
Also, as far as pay goes, I've seen NP's make anywhere from $55,000 to $150,000 per year. It all depends on the specialty and the supply and demand. Although, remember there's usually a catch if someone is offering you a lot of money. I had a job like that right out of school in pain management. I made anywhere from $600 to $1,000 per day b/c I was paid "per patient". It was a mind numbing job and I felt like a drug dealer. Needless to say, my former PM boss is now in trouble with the DEA and the Board of Medicine! If it's too good to be true, then it probably is!
I make $50/hr now, but I don't get any benefits, since I'm an independent contractor. I'm sure there are some ICU/ER nurses who are making that WITH benefits.
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with the medical establishment big time. 
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