Hello all
I'm currently in the FNP program at Texas Tech, due to graduate in August and trying to figure out what to do afterwards. My background is ICU for 2 years and Ortho for the last 3 years. I always thought I would go to Family Practice when done with my FNP but, as I am nearing completion of my program, Ortho surgeons I work with are asking me about potentially joining their respective practices. While I love the idea of staying in Ortho, I am unsure of what my role, as an FNP, would be.
I realize seeing patients in clinic- injuries, pre-op, and post-op would be a big part of it so the surgeon could be in the OR where he makes his big $$$. But the surgeons I work with employ PAs and don't seem to think there is a difference between the two. I see PAs assist in the OR frequently, but as an FNP, the only way I could do that is with an RNFA, correct?
Also, they could not ask me to round or deal with anything inpatient, correct? I really wish Tech offered a course on this type of issue as I am months away from graduation and am unclear of my scope in this field. Anyone who has a clue about how this works in Texas, please advise.
Thanks