I need some career advice...

[ChildPsychRN]

Hello everyone. I am a relatively new nurse. I was a LPN for 18 months while I completed my LPN to RN program. I have been a RN for one year and am pursuing my MSN in nursing education. I would like to follow that up with a PMHNP. My ultimate goal is to work for the VA as I feel strongly about serving those who have served our country.

With that being said, I am afraid that I am committing myself too early in my career. I enjoy psych very much, but what if in a few years down the road I don't any longer? I don't want to be so specialized that I can't work elsewhere should that happen. I'm sure that I could always get my FNP certification if that were to happen, but I would appreciate your thoughts.

Just for some added background, I have worked with pediatrics/adolescents for this first year. I have just accepted a position on an adult unit (dual diagnosis) and will be transitioning from days to nights. I'm looking forward to working with the adults on a regular basis as I've only experienced them when I pick up overtime or get pulled.

Again, thank you for your input!

[Jules A, MSN]

I'd suggest you finish what you are working on before you worry about which NP cert you want to pursue. It will become clearer. :)

FWIW although altruistic to work for VA as a NP we are considered nursing staff, not medical staff, and the pay is horrific. In my case at this time $50,000 a year less than what I make in the private sector. Federal benefits are good and I enjoyed working with vets as a nurse but nothing is worth taking that kind of a hit, imo.

[ChildPsychRN]

Thank you Jules. I appreciate your feedback. I did notice that the pay was significantly less. However, I like some of the other benefits they offer, like loan repayment and the ability to work in any state. I'm trying to stay realistic about the VA. It has a bad reputation here in Kentucky, but so does the hospital where I work currently. It's great to hear from someone who's actually been there. :)