PNP or FNP?

llg, PhD, RN · Oct 15, 2011

Thanks for the support. I work with a lot of young pediatric nurses -- many of them thinking of graduate school. While that's great, many of them enroll in programs without really thinking about the type of work they will do after they graduate. They don't "match up" the type of degree they will get with the type of work that the program will prepare them to do. Then they wonder why they can't get the jobs they want after graduation. They waste time, energy, and money on programs that don't help them get jobs they want. It's sad.

CCRNDiva, BSN, RN · Oct 16, 2011

That is so true!! It is better to get the education that will best prepare you for your career goals than to go about attaining an education that is not best suited for goals and your passion.

Trauma Columnist · Oct 17, 2011

Great points llg!

For instance, in my area, I did many of peds CNS hours with an FNP who worked exclusively in a peds practice.

In my area, FNP is the way to go unless you want dual certification.

Dr.Naija_Glam · Oct 17, 2011

I made a post like this a while ago. I was unsure of whether to go the PNP or FNP route. I am currently enrolled in a FNP/DNP program with a graduation date of Spring 2013. I originally started in the program as a PNP. After one semester I switched to FNP for the following reasons:

1. The PNP & FNP students (in my program) take the same peds courses. The only difference in the education is that the FNP take additional courses for the adult population. This isn't the case for all schools but it is for a lot of them.

2. At the pediatric hospital where I work, both FNPs & PNPs are hired. This may not be for all facilities, but the majority of the facilities I looked up hired both.

3. I have only worked with peds and absolutely adore the population. At this point in my life, I can only see myself working with kids. However, I'm 23 years old and have no idea where I'll be in 10 years. When it comes down to it FNPs have the choice to work with almost any population they want whereas PNPs care for the peds population only. I plan on sticking with peds in practice but I want to have other options if the specialty isn't available to me. I know of 3 PNP grads in my area who have been unable to find work and 2 FNP grads who were hired within 3 months of graduating, 1 of which at a peds practice. Of course there are individual circumstances at work but I prefer the flexibility FNP overall.

If you have absolutely no desire to work with adults, then the PNP is for you. However, if you are interested in other populations the FNP may be the best route. Think long and hard because school costs $$$$$ and can be challenging. You don't want to end up with a degree that your not satisfied with.

79Tango · Oct 18, 2011

Exactly what you said Naija , I say FNP that specializes in PEDs.

Time and time again a facility will advertise for PNP only to hire a PA or FNP with Ped's experience (when they dont get any applicants). It also seems that they are paid the same $$ just that FNP's have more options.