NP to Admin

[LookForward]

Hi,

I'm a new NP (less than a year), but I am beginning to consider shifting into administration or field in patient safety/quality. Im a bit frustrated with restrictions on NP scope. Im interested in doing some research but I find that there's more interest in allocating research opportunities to med students/physicians in my field...

I want to work where I have more autonomy and feel that I can ascend the ladder...

If you are a nurse or NP and was able to shift to admin/quality improvement, how did you do it?

I got accepted into a DNP program--but based on what I ultimately want to do, should I apply for MS in Health Admin/informatics or stick to the DNP? Thanks

[Oldmahubbard]

In NY, where after a certain number of clinical hours, 3000, I believe, an NP is independent. That is less than 2 years, full time.

The state doesn't limit the scope, although various employers may limit you in some manner. I am fortunate to be 100% autonomous.

You don't say exactly why your current position is disappointing, and I am not sure why you feel your scope is so limited. Again, you are very inexperienced.

After all the work of getting your NP, and after less than a year, you don't want to do it anymore?

I would not expect there to be many research opportunities for an NP. There are not many research positions, period, and yes, the jobs go to physicians.

The fields you mentioned are very different, and you will no doubt need work experience.

If you don't already have work experience in these fields, how do you know they won't also be very disappointing?

It is true that there is generally no "ladder" for an NP to climb.

I just think its too soon to decide you don't want to do direct clinical work.

[FullGlass, BSN, MSN, NP]

If you are interested in research, your best bet is to go for your PhD - it doesn't have to be in nursing, either.

An MS in Health Admin/Informatics is a possibility. You can also consider an MPH or a healthcare MBA. Many MBA programs also offer a specialization in healthcare.

I don't know where you live, but NP scope of practice is determined at the state level. You could move to a full practice authority state.

NPs can be appointed clinic managers. Another possibility is working for the government, where you could move into an administrative role after gaining some experience.

You really need a bit more work experience before looking to move into administration/management.

[inthecosmos, BSN, MSN, RN, APRN]

Is relocation an option?

[MelEpiRN]

I have a MPH specializing in epidemiology (which is heavily research based) and I've worked in various quality positions since 2007. I think it all depends on what you want to do, ultimately. I think PhD or Epi is the way to go for research. Admin track- you'd probably want to get your MBA, MHA, or MMM.

I see a LOT of job descriptions in those positions wanting Six Sigma training- if you want to climb the ladder in quality I'd start there.