Info for a prospective NP

Trauma Columnist · Jan 11, 2009

Well first, congrats on your recent graduation. An NP is at least an MSN-prepared RN. It is not necessary to obtain your BSN though in order to be an NP as there are programs which award an MSN in an ADN to MSN program.

As to specialty, this is something that you can decide on as you gain RN experience. You might want to look at some posts in the Advanced Practice Forum - there are many NPs that post over there.

Good luck.

JDCitizen · Jan 12, 2009

I just graduated from an ADN program, and plan to go back in the fall for my BSN, and continue from there. My question is, what is the standard progression of degrees to get an NP degree? Also, what "specialties" are available to practice in as an NP and do you specialize in one area during your education, or choose where to work after you receive your degree? Basically, i need a kick in the right direction :)

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner I have done office based and hospital based practice. I have seen a few young children but mostly teens to elderly.

During school what seemed most interesting to you?

Different things to consider about what you may want to do:

- Take care of babies only

- Take care of children

- Take care of babies to adults

- Take care of Adults only

- Work in a hospital

- Work outside of a hospital

- etc...

Different states have different rules about who can do what where and when... Factor in what programs your local schools offer as well as what is the market looking at in the area you are interested in working.

just_cause, BSN, RN · Jan 13, 2009

The BSN would be the next step for your regardless of what future NP/CNS/PA/CRNA program you might to select from.

Caveat wold be - BSN wouldn't necessarily be needed if you already had a non-nursing BA or BS.

I would say continue to progress through BSN and as JD said take a look at what you like / don't like so you can look at a future specialty after attaining the BSN :)

JaimeeG · Jan 13, 2009

I took a similar route to what you are planning. I graduated from an ADN program and then did my BSN. While working on my BSN, I worked full-time so that I could gain some clinical experience. We relocated to another state about halfway through my BSN, and I started thinking about advanced practice nursing after we moved. So, I went back to school, again! I just graduated from an FNP program in December 2008 and am now waiting to take my boards.

I chose the Family specialization because I figured it would give me the most options for work. I actually work in neurology now, and that is where I will be staying.

Good luck to you!

Jaimee