Part time NPs?

[sargentrn]

I am wondering if there are many opportunities for NPs to work part time? I am starting school this fall for my MSN degree and need to finalize my decision on my major, either MSN nursing education or FNP. I have small children and just getting through school will be more than enough hours while still working. Does anyone know of NPs who work part time?

[Sheri FNP-C]

I was told over and over not to ever expect to find a part-time NP position. For that matter, I knew that NP jobs at all are sporifice in my area. I graduated in May, started applying for jobs in late March. I have had the following offers...

1. Internal Medicine-they wanted f/t but after interviewing me and hearing why I wanted p/t (so I wouldn't need to miss time for kids dr. appts, etc.) they offered me p/t 3-4 days/wk

2. OB/GYN-32 hours/4 days which was considered f/t since the figured you would end up charting or looking things up in the evenings or your day off.

3. Internal Medicine- 16-32 hours over 2-4 days a week (whatever I preferred)

4. Pediatrics- 32 hours/4 days

Even more interesting is that I provide health ins. for my family so I need that benefit even with part-time hours. 3 of the 4 positions provide medical ins.

So, I guess I am saying that I think it is very possible despite what you may hear.

[sargentrn]

Oh, that is interesting. I also need the insurance so that is good to know. Did you accept a position? May I ask what state you are in? Are you glad you became an NP or is it too soon to tell lol? I've been an ICU nurse for 17 years, I'm a bit intimidated by the thought of the autonomy of an NP, but I'm sure you learn what you need to know in school, hopefully.

[Sheri FNP-C]

I verbally accepted a position, but nothing in writing yet. I don't feel like it is a sure thing until the contract is signed!

I am so glad I went back. It was so hard on myself and my family, but I have taken care of everyone but myself for so many years that it was time to do something for me!!!! I think if I can just pass the certification exam the stress level will decrease dramatically. I knew that this transition would involve a loss of pay and benefits going into it. For me, job satisfaction was so much more important. So I am absolutely sure I did the right thing by going back!

I live in NY (Upstate).

[BCgradnurse, MSN, RN, NP]

I saw ads for several part time NP positions, and worked with some NPs in my clinicals who were part time (24-32 hrs.). I think a good place to look is at college/university health services. They're not open all the time and you might have summers off!! I'm hoping to do that once I pay off my loans!!