Opinions of working during NP schooling.

[jnm041994]

I will start courses for adult acute care NP in a month. I currently work 3-4 12hr night shifts in a step down unit and an occasional shift in an ICU. My question is what worked better for you while furthering your education?

M-F 8-5, such as a clinic

3-12hr shifts (days or night) every other weekend/holidays

or some other position such as home health or set your own schedule time job.

I have to get medical insurance from where I work so travel nursing and float pool may not be options. I know moving to a clinic for better hours may hinder my patient care experience and learning. I am considering PACU because I nor longer want to do bedside nursing. I only have 1 year experience at this time. I don't have children so I don't have to take that into account. Thanks.

[cleback]

Would you be primary care or acute care np? I think you may consider clinical schedules. Many preceptors, particularly in primary care, work banker hours, so you would have scheduling conflicts if you're also working banker hours. Many students, myself included, work a lot of weekends, nights, to go to school during the week. I do think you'll have to cut back hours, though. 3-4 12s is a lot to do while studying. I definitely spend 15 hrs outside of class for a 3 credit course. It's more time consuming than undergrad.

[jnm041994]

Acute care-I am thinking about doing urgent care after finishing up.