Crazy to leave school nursing?

[Blessedx3]

I have been a school nurse for several years--love my job--but I not only want to diagnose the problem--but prescribe and fix it. I have been accepted to a FNP program starting in a couple of weeks. I vascillate between leaving a 9 month a year job with good pay and the NP position. I am Nationally certified and our state pays $6000 additional per year for that(so it's a good paying job). I just wonder when my children are out of the elementary setting--if I will still want to be in a school setting? Anyone else out there with advice?

[Keepstanding, ASN, RN]

Hello,

Sounds to me like you need to follow your passion for NP ! You obviously have the drive and desire......I say GO FOR IT ! And best of everything to you ! :heartbeat

[luvschoolnursing, LPN]

I agree with Praiser. School Nursing hours are great, but if that is not where your passion is, go for the FNP!

[Wishinonastar, BSN]

Some school districts hire NP's, and lots of colleges do so you could still work in the field as an NP. Maybe your school would hire you and you could do the physicals? Not only that, but an NP makes a lot more so you can work part-time for what an RN makes full-time. Also, you will probably work somewhere that has regular hours- no shifts or holidays unless you work in an ER. I would go for it if I were you. My friend left school nursing to do the same and now works in a family practice. She is very satified and happy. Nurses long to do more, but the path to an NP is so long that few of us go that direction. If you can do it- I would do it while you are still able. Life often gets in the way of pursuing our dreams.