Dislike ER nursing, FNP still good choice?

Published

I'm considering going back to school for a MSN/FNP degree, I've had my BSN about 5 years and have 10 years of nursing experience, mainly as a float RN in a rural hospital. I don't like ER, the rush of not knowing what's coming in the door next just isn't my thing. I handle it ok, been told I'm very calm and through but I am always a bit anxious inside. With knowing this, is FNP still a good next step? Anyone dislike ER and like being an FNP?

I should add I do like ICU, Med/Surg and Rehab, I think because it's a more "controlled" environment if that makes sense.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Not to be off topic, but I'll never understand why they move items to the student section when people are clearly asking questions best fielded by people actively working.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Yes! I posted it under the NP section for ideas from working professionals!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER/Trauma.

I've been an ER nurse for 12 years and while I love it, I'm burnt out. I graduated 6 months ago with my FNP and looking at doing primary/walk-in/urgent care. I don't think you can get much more controlled than a PCP office. You have your schedule for the day, see most patients at routine intervals, adjust their medications according to guidelines and protocols, and the ones that come for walk-in visits are all stable with minor complaints - and if there is a major problem you call 911 and ship them off to the ER ;)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Anesthesia, Pain, Emergency Medicine.

You treat patients based on "guidelines and protocols"? We are professionals and should be treating patients based on current evidence. You are a provider not a technician.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Anesthesia, Pain, Emergency Medicine.

BTW, not all PCP clinics get stable walk in. Many rural clinics get fractures, I&Ds, wounds etc. Don't project your small part of the world to FNPs all over.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
You treat patients based on "guidelines and protocols"? We are professionals and should be treating patients based on current evidence. You are a provider not a technician.

Guidelines are typically put out with evidence taken into account. AAFP doesn't just decide Willy nilly that abx shouldn't be prescribed for acute bronchitis in a patient with no other comorbid factors for nothing. While not everything should be guideline driven, they are effective and well researched tools in directing care.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion