I think it really depends on the area. I'm in a direct entry program in CA and our grads don't really have problems getting hired, but it depends on the specialty. I'm in psych, and it seems like there are a lot of jobs along the entire west coast for this specialty (that pay well). I also think that RN experience isn't necessarily vital and I haven't seen it be an issue for grads from the program. However, that being said, I do plan on working as a RN for about 2 years (during my MSN). I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get a job (bay area is a nightmare), but apparently the class ahead of me is working (per diem mostly, typically outpatient and/or behavioral health), so I am more optimistic. My goal will be to have about ~2 years of part-time/per diem RN work in behavioral health before I am licensed as a FPMHNP.
4:29 am by WildflowerRNI currently work with 3 different NPs who are working as RNs. Depressing. But I understand PAs are having an even harder time - less of a centralized, organized national organization.netglow likes this.
1:04 pm by myelinI think it really depends on the area. I'm in a direct entry program in CA and our grads don't really have problems getting hired, but it depends on the specialty. I'm in psych, and it seems like there are a lot of jobs along the entire west coast for this specialty (that pay well). I also think that RN experience isn't necessarily vital and I haven't seen it be an issue for grads from the program. However, that being said, I do plan on working as a RN for about 2 years (during my MSN). I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get a job (bay area is a nightmare), but apparently the class ahead of me is working (per diem mostly, typically outpatient and/or behavioral health), so I am more optimistic. My goal will be to have about ~2 years of part-time/per diem RN work in behavioral health before I am licensed as a FPMHNP.netglow likes this.