ACNP Jobs -- are there enough out there?

[LittleNurseGina]

I found out today that I got accepted into an ACNP graduate program-- YAY!-- but I am so torn about what to do!

I currently work in a cardiothoracic ICU and love the critical care setting. I could never picture myself doing primary care in a general medicine setting. I see myself working with acutely ill patients. I've also considered CRNA school.

The curriculum and topics of the program interest me, but my major concern is with job availability. I am currently in Missouri, tho I would be willing to practice in Southern Illinois, St. Louis, Kansas City, or Eastern Kansas.

Are there too many ACNP's right now for the available jobs? Is anyone having trouble finding jobs after graduating?

Thanks for the help!

[lifelong]

Hi LittlenurseGina,

You ask a great question. The problem is I can't answer it. I live in Ohio the market is open for NPs (ACNP and FNP esp.); the window seems to be a little tighter for CRNAs. I applied to 2 and got into 2 CRNA schools a few years back. I have worked ICU, CVICU, recovered hearts, flight etc. Really thought CRNA was for me. But when I shadowed, it was obvious I would not be happy behind the workbench surrounded by gray walls all day long. I suggest you shadow both positions, maybe a couple of times in different facilities. Then look what really makes you happy then decide. I believe whatever you decide will turn out for the best.

[MissDoodaw]

Hi,

I think lifelong is giving great advice! Good Luck!

[JDCitizen]

Good question? You may have to do your own research to find out though...

Talk with your school to find out their recent hire data. Talk to the HR department at area hospitals. If possible find recent graduates and talk with them and/or talk to those who are about to graduate.

Specialization can be tricky since it could limit your marketability; but that all depends on the markets demands. The doctor that you may end up working for may be happy to know that you can take care of his acute patients in the hospital or in the office... The hospital may be happy that you can help take care of their inpatients in a way that helps their bottom line...

[cruisin_woodward]

I found out today that I got accepted into an ACNP graduate program-- YAY!-- but I am so torn about what to do!

I currently work in a cardiothoracic ICU and love the critical care setting. I could never picture myself doing primary care in a general medicine setting. I see myself working with acutely ill patients. I've also considered CRNA school.

The curriculum and topics of the program interest me, but my major concern is with job availability. I am currently in Missouri, tho I would be willing to practice in Southern Illinois, St. Louis, Kansas City, or Eastern Kansas.

Are there too many ACNP's right now for the available jobs? Is anyone having trouble finding jobs after graduating?

Thanks for the help!

You just described me to a tee. My understanding is that there are jobs out there. No worries. THat has been what every one keeps telling me. I want to stay in CTICU when I graduate.