Best RN experience for new grad FNP?

[ladybug95]

Hi Friends,

Question for you: I work as an RN in a large, relatively high acuity ER (45 beds, level III trauma center w/cath lab and certified stroke center). However, my hours were recently reduced (budget cuts) so I've been searching for a casual job to supplement my income. I have two offers right now: a level II trauma center at the University Hospital, or an ER job at the local Children's Hospital (level III trauma). I'm currently working on my FNP and have a few years left on that. I love pediatrics, and my current job has some (but not a ton) of peds. However the doctors I work with have been encouraging a higher level trauma center saying that experience will be more valuable to me/make me more marketable when I graduate as an FNP. Any advice/comments?

Thanks,

Nickie

[Jules A, MSN]

Hi Nickie,

Your ED RN background will serve you well. I'd be inclined to do the peds ED because that peds exposure will be invaluable. Consider trends in your area because right now in my area they are rarely using FNPs in the ED or if they do they are relegated to the lesser urgent care ED beds. Most FNPs around here work in outpatient primary care where again I think the peds experience will be beneficial. If you want to do ED or hospital NP you will probably have to add ACNP also. Although few want to work as a RN in an outpatient PCP office that would probably be ideal experience and possibly an extended job interview for FNP students.

[aok7, NP]

I am studying for my board exams and am working to clear my mind of experience and focus on evidence-based practice. The RN role is not the NP role, and that's my best advice. You'll learn in school how to think. My 10 years of RN experience will carry me through interactions and handling situations with grace, and I value every day of my RN days, personally.

The consensus model will dramatically affect inpatient vs. outpatient preparation in the future, as some hospitals (mine) are not credentialing FNPs or AGNPs for in-patient jobs. The ACNP degree prepares NPs specifically for in-patient care.