FNP vs AGAC-NP

[Guest1030824]

Hi, I have questions about NP programs. I’m thinking about doing FNP but wondering if an FNP can work in acute care too? I really want to  to work with adults only but I heard that most hospitals and clinics prefer FNPs. 

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

Depending on where you live, hospitals will not longer employ FNPs because their scope of training is not acute care. I don't know as much about clinics. My understanding is basically a FNP is targeting primary care and will not be appropriately trained for urgent/acute care. There are grandfathered FNPs in emergency rooms, but most will not hire. 

[SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP]

It really depends on your state's BON. Those that have already adopted the consensus model will only allow ACNPs in the hopsital setting. There are some that still don't distinguish between the types of NP. I live in a state where they don't distinguish. However, I'm noticing that more & more ER new hires are ACNP vs. FNP. Not knowing the future, you should really focus on the population & setting you want to work with. If you only want adults, why waste your time with FNP? If you have an ICU or ER background, then ACNP is the way to go if you want to stay in that field. 

I'm currently doing a dual ANCP/FNP program (one more semester left to go!). My reason for doing this is my state doesn't make that distinction and some want FNP, some want ACNP. I want to be covered both ways. Plus, I want to travel and do locum tenens in the future, so I want to have that well-rounded experience/certification.

Really think about exactly what you want to do and that will point you in the right direction.

[Guest1030824]

What school are you going to that does the duel FNP & ACNP?

[Guest1030824]

I like the idea of doing FNP/ACNP. I'm going to find out if I can do this at my school. Thank you!