NP and beyond...

Published

Specializes in PICU, ED, Infection Control, Education, cardiology.

So, I have been an NP for almost 4 years. I mostly work in acute care and do some adjust teaching work as well. I think I am having a mid-career crisis. Basically I am not really fulfilled with the NP role as a whole. I have a burning desire to affect change, but I want to more away from the bedside. Years ago I thought about law school. This recently came to light again and there are some schools near me that offer healthcare as a concentration. I take the LSAT soon. Im hoping law could be a stepping stone to affect more global healthcare issues. I've been looking into some online programs as they are cheaper. The law school thought came back into play as I am looking at different doctoral routes. Overall not really impressed by the DNP. Has anyone else been in a slump like this in the NP role? I recently changed jobs hoping it would change my outlook in healthcare, but really just changed the scenery.

Just looking for thoughts

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Nursing.

Try to join and participate in healthcare activism groups locally, statewide and nationally now and see if that fills your void. You may not need to acquire a law degree to make changes happen. Join toastmaster and develop your public speaking skills now because then you could try to reach the masses via large audiences + it would benefit you in any career (law or healthcare).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in GENERAL.

Well Buzz, There are NPs who want to be lawyers and lawyers who want to doctors and chiropractors who want to be surgeons and so on, and so on.

But if you really want to be frustrated take the podium and try to change the world. This way you will find out for yourself that you can lead the horse to water but drinking is up to them.

So cut to the chase and try investment banking. Might as well make some real money and let everyone else continue to opine about what's just right for you in the mean time.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Start some sort of business. Thats how one changes the world. More degrees usually isn't the answer. Coming from me though I can't talk really.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Outpatient Psychiatry.

What kind of change would you like to affect?

Start with dabbling in local politics. Join a lobbying group and extrovert yourself. Start a monetized blog, email funnel, web course, etc. Join the military and pursue special operations. Adopt a kid. There are lots of things to do without the myriad costs of another degree.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Forensics, OB, QI.

Maybe start a health related NGO or go into administration in a FQHC?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi PsychGuy do you have a blog?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion