Am I really a NP if I do laser hair removal?

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I hope the title is not misleading. Basically, I graduated a year ago and had started working (I am a FNP). Within a year, I left the job because of the horrible environment, and have been searching for a job for 6 months. I would interview for a position, but most employers stated that "I lack experience". I needed to eventually bring in a paycheck, so I started working for the laser hair company (a national chain) The pay is wonderful, but I do not feel like I am really contributing to the NP profession. In some ways, I feel like I am working at a glorified mall job. I am embarassed to tell anyone where I work!

I am sorry if this offends anyone, but this is what I feel and this is what I am trying to reconcile. In doing laser hair removal, have I left the NP profession? Should I keep seeking a new job? Some say they love it here as they do not have to do a lot of charting, they do not go home worrying if they prescribed the wrong medication, etc. Coworkers tell me that we are doing cosmetic dermatology. I do not see it as cosmetic dermatology......

I know I should listen to my gut, but I lack confidence right now in my decision making skills. I guess I am seeking a validation or any guidance as I navigate through the job market.

Thanks you!

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Specializes in Med/Surg, International Health, Psych.

Do you enjoy your job? That's the million dollar question. However, for me . . . you said the magic phrase: "the pay is wonderful." Blessings don't always come wrapped up the way we think they should.

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Specializes in women's health, NICU.

Agreed in regards to the above poster. You sound like you have a great gig to me!

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Specializes in ER, HH, CTICU, corrections, cardiology, hospice.

If you are not feeling fulfilled doing lazer hair removal, moonlight at a doc-in-abox. Stick with the money. Unless the work environment is painfully bad. If I didn't need a supervising physician, that wouldn't be a bad cash only business for myself.

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As someone who has had extensive laser hair removal I can tell you that your job is very much valued coming from my prospective. Please do not feel like you are not an asset to the profession just because you are not in a conventional doctors office. Aesthetic nursing is an important job to have. I know it made a world of difference to me in my confidence. Just like there are different RN jobs there are different NP jobs. If you are truly not feeling fulfilled get your resume out their and maybe your experience with your current employer will count for something. But for now you are helping your patients maybe more than you will ever know. I know it helped me with my confidence. Hang in there!

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I soooo want to get started in aesthetics. I'm am in primary care and have the opposite issue without the exp. in aesthetics, I cannot get a job in cosmetics. Believe me, follow the money sometimes works.

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Specializes in Internal medicine/critical care/FP.

if it makes bucks it makes bucks

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Specializes in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy.

I think it's telling that they hired an NP for the position and are paying you well for it. It must mean they want your skill and knowledge level for the job.

As long as the job is giving you what you need in terms of pay, hours, benefits, etc., what does it matter what anyone else thinks? There is a wide range of jobs in nursing and whatever you do, someone else is going to think their job is more challenging, exciting, prestigious, what-have-you.

The only issue is if YOU want a change because you want to increase your skills.

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Specializes in Family Practice, Urgent Care.

What I don't understand is we as FNP's learn nothing about laser hair removal in our programs. These big chains promote RN's and NP's as if we have extensive training in aesthetics.

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Specializes in Clinic NP.

I work in an area that is not generally well accepted/well thought of. In my opinion do what makes you happy, personally I'm too new for quitting yet(low experience to move to my desired area), but fully plan to in another year(only 2 total since graduation).

best of luck, enjoy the money,

ps don't be afraid to look...

the money can be more than you expect. Your obviously not leaving for garbage pay. I wouldn't either.

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Wildcatarnp-

Would love to hear an update from you! I can relate to what you are saying as I left primary care about 8 months ago to work part time in a weight loss clinic. I also do medical aesthetics ( Botox, dermal fillers etc) we do not do laser hair removal but at times I miss the personal relationships I developed in primary care and I miss actually using my brain! Hang in there. If you want another job just be patient and keep looking, something will open up. Otherwise, ride it out and look at the bright side of what you are doing. Low stress, great money and happy patients who want to be there to see you! Stay positive!

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