CRNA vs. NP: Can't decide...

[ReeseW]

Hello fellow nurses!

I'm in a bit of a dilemma and was hoping someone could lend me helpful advice/suggestions. Currently have 3 years of RN experience, 1 year of that is ICU. Initially came to ICU thinking i'd be applying to CRNA schools next year. The thought of a six-figure salary and high level of autonomy is what attracted me to the CRNA profession. But another part of me is overwhelmed with all the requirements to get into CRNA school, including high GRE scores & pre-reqs. I'm also questioning whether I'll be truly be happy with the nature of the work.

Recently, I discovered a lot of my collegues are studying to become an NP. I started comparing the two specialties. For those who decided on pursuing a NP degree, can you answer the following:

1.) What is the average salary for acute care/adult NP (in NYC)?

2.) Is there a salary cap?

3.) Heard some time ago that the profession of NP will eventually become obsolete? Is this true? I thought there was a huge shortage of NP's nationwide?

4.) How competitive is it to get into NP programs, would be applying to NYC and Boston.

Thank you for your time!

-Helen

[ghillbert, MSN, NP]

1.) What is the average salary for acute care/adult NP (in NYC)?

Try google.com if you want an average.

2.) Is there a salary cap?

Of course not - depends where you work, and what you negotiate.

3.) Heard some time ago that the profession of NP will eventually become obsolete? Is this true? I thought there was a huge shortage of NP's nationwide?

Which wise soul informed you of this? Sources?

4.) How competitive is it to get into NP programs, would be applying to NYC and Boston

Depends on the program, you'd have to ask each one what the profile of a successful applicant looks like.

If you can't decide between specialties, why don't you try shadowing both and see? They are very different.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I too think shadowing is a good idea. You might try joining your state's advanced practice nursing organization too to get some networking. Personally, I did shadow several CRNAs and found I couldn't stand still long enough - lol.

[ReeseW]

thank u both for your responses and suggestions!