Best Experience for Future FNP?

[PMFB-RN, RN]

I am very interested in advanced practice nursing and intend to apply to a FNP program in the next couple years. I currently work in a level II surgical/trauma ICU.

WHat type of RN work experience would be most helpful for a future FNP?

Advice appeciated.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I would say that the best experience is that which gives you enough experience to know what direction you want to take with your NP. I was in the ER (level one trauma center) for 10 years prior to becoming an APN. However, when I got my first APN position, it was in nephrology!!

However, this has worked well because the quick assessment skills and ability to react well in an emergency have served me well. Also - the energy that I have from working in a busy ER helped me in the interview process.

[PMFB-RN, RN]

Thanks for your comments. I very much want to be a primary care provider in a very rural area or possibly for the IHS.