First NP job... Did you negotiate the salary?

[RN/WI]

As a new graduate NP, you’ve made it through the program and passed the boards, yah! Now it’s time to find the first job. Here are some frequently asked questions of the new grad as the time comes to get that first job. Can some NPs that have been here already share the answers to the below questions... Any input is appreciated.

• As a new graduate NP, how long did it take to land the first job?
• Was your first job in the area of practice/ specialty that you wanted?
• Did you negotiate the wage for the position?

[MD married to RN]

On 2/26/2021 at 12:49 PM, umbdude said:

Wouldn't occurrence based be better (other than being more expensive)? No need to worry about tails.

I always get my own personal coverage even though almost every organization offers malpractice coverage.

Yes occurrence based is best (it is what I meant when I said "claims based").

Getting one's own malpractice (at least as an EM NP) might often be cost prohibitive.

[Upgrading_Status, BSN, MSN, RN, NP]

On 2/20/2021 at 8:20 PM, verene said:

Oh - also ask about things like call (required/optional/none), coverage (do you find own? Does employer provide?) for absences, panel size. Number of admits per day/week and number of follow ups. Patient/case complexity and resources for management. Are there MAs to help with administrative stuff? (e.g. records requests).  What EHR is used? (seriously it can make a big difference). Pharmacy coordination (onsite/offsite/contracted or retail?) --- any specific certs needed (e.g. Clozapine REMS in psych setting)? Do they pay/provide training for additional certifications?  Is pay salary, hourly? 1099 or w-2? Are you paid for working overtime (particularly if salaried this is a good question to ask) and what is the approval process for working overtime? (And is this anticipated to be common occurrence?) 

Liability/legal - are you covered by their malpractice insurance (still have your own!) Is there legal representation or advice if you need it (I speak with our director of legal affairs ALL THE TIME with weird patient situations and correct legal handling - but I also work forensics so EVERYTHING is somehow tied to legal system).  Is it anticipated you will need to testify as expert witness or otherwise provide testimony in your area of practice? What preparation is provided for this? 

Are there teaching or mentoring duties? Expectations to participate in committees? etc. 

ALWAYS ask about non-compete agreements (and try to avoid signing one) as well as policies on having a second/moonlighting job (many places are okay with it but do have you go through a formal conflict of interest process, some employers prohibit this - if you think you might pick up something part-time or per diem on the this matters). 

all great information, with angles I did not even consider