I'm lost...should I do PNP or FNP??

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Hi all,

I'm still trying to decide whether to get a PNP (pediatric NP) vs a FNP (family NP). Anyone out there have either one and have an opinion about this? I have worked in adult inpatient setting and hurt my back and then worked in a pediatric ER and loved it. I'd primarily like to work with children, but don't want to limit my opportunities after graduation, as I already feel limited given my back situation. I've heard FNP's can work with children, but do they feel comfortable doing this? Is it enough education about children in a FNP program?? Also, in a rural area, would a FNP be better for job opportunities vs a PNP? And do peds doctor's offices or clinics hire you if you have a FNP instead of a PNP? Do urgent cares hire if you have a PNP instead of a FNP?

Also - thinking of getting a DNP along with my NP because I've heard it's the way to go even though it's not required yet...thoughts?

Thank you all!!!

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I have a friend who is finishing her FNP - but her background was extensively PICU. For her, she didn't want to limit herself after graduation, but will be taking a job with a population she is comfortable (in a primary care Peds clinic).

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I just graduated with my DNP-FNP. I live in Seattle and there are opportunities for FNPs to apply for residency positions at our local Children's hospital for hospitalist and urgent care positions. I think having your FNP gives you the broadest of options. However it can be difficult to get "enough" pediatric experience during clinical rotations. Even if you did you may never really feel ready! When your ready to look for your dream job that will be the time to find an employer that will support you as a new grad. I'm interviewing for a urgent care fellowship position in a large multi specialty organization next week because I think I will get the variety of experience I want. I had an awesome clinical experience in urgent care during my last quarter. It was a really intense cold/flu season this year so I saw A LOT of newborns/infants/school-age/adolescents. If I was going to be working in a rural area I would want to have my FNP.

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Thank you Mica for your response!! Yes I've heard the experience you get with peds doesn't necessarily fully prepare you, but thank you for your suggestions! I think I'm going to try and find a BSN-DNP bridge program. Any recommendations?? I'm sorta hoping to do it online if I can; do you think that is ok to do or is in the classroom setting better??

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Thank you rnkaytee for you response! Good to know you can still work in a peds clinic as an FNP as your friend is going to do! Thanks so much!!

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I'm not a PNP or an FNP, so please take this comment with a grain of salt. I've heard a few times (both from FNP students and from current PNPs) that the FNP degree is actually preferred by some pediatric practices because it makes you a more well-rounded provider for adolescents. Specifically, in the last city where I worked I knew a few PNPs who couldn't find jobs at peds outpatient practices and had to take jobs on post-partum well baby nurseries. It's possible that this was only a regional trend, but that was my experience.

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Thank you adventure_rn, BSN for your response! I have heard as well that it can be harder to get a job with a PNP, but I haven't heard some would prefer a FNP! I hope you're right :) I think I've decided on the FNP so I don't limit myself and so I can still work with kids!! Thank you for responding even though you aren't either one - I really appreciate it!

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