I've been getting conflicting information from advisors on the difference between being a DPN/Nurse Practitioner vs. being a PA. I've been told the only difference is PAs are trained in the medical school, while DPN/NPs are trained in the nursing school. That they essentially do the same job, but PAs can prescribe a greater variety & type of medications. I'm trying to decide which career path I'd like to take after completing my BSN.
I'd love to hear some feedback from those of you actually pursuing these fields. What made you decide to choose DPN/NP over being a PA (or vice-versa)? How do you think job prospects differ between the two? Did driving distance to your school affect your decision? How long did you work as a BSN before pursuing post-graduate studies?
Thanks in advance for your advice!