PansyKat

Hello, I am a new FNP of 4 months(although I have been an RN for over 25 years). I also have a MSN in healthcare administration. My question is this...how many patients does a new FNP typically see? I work in a walk in clinic and see upwards of 30-32 patients in a 9 our shift. Sometimes, I only work with a couple techs and receptionist. I do not have a designated time to eat or to take a break. I just keep chugging along seeing patients. I am finding myself starting to get a case of burnout!!!! Next week I will start to rotate to the family practice clinic and see my own patients 2 days a week. The other 2 days I will be back in the walk-in clinic. I am concerned how this will work!! Any feedback or suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Thanks to everyone for the replies! :)

Hi all, I would like some feedback as to what type of attire you wear to work...as a NP. I suppose it depends on the area you work? Replies greatly appreciated! :)

I have been a nurse for over 25 years in various settings...from the USAF as a flight nurse to working in a Level 1 Trauma Center to educating RN students. The great thing about nursing is options and variety. Same goes for education. I am a product of an "online" NP program...and I am a new NP. Do I feel I received an sub-standard education? Absolutely not! I had to study and be an independent learner. I did not have to have someone "hold my hand" throughout the program. I networked to get excellent preceptors and I looked for learning opportunities. I had a good experience with my online program..I think being highly motivated and with a STRONG nursing background lends itself to this type of learning. I have sat in the Brick and Mortar schools(my MSN) and felt constricted. I was limited by my career/hours as to when I could attend! Getting my Post-Master's as a FNP online was the best choice for me! Do I feel it is good for relatively new nurses? No..I think you need that nuturing, networking and support that a classroom/professor can offer. Besides, Vanderbilt offers a bridge program where basically anyone with a BS degree can become a APRN in little as 2 years of full-time study. Most of these students have little to NO background in nursing and in 2 years have a MSN/ARNP! Somehow, my online degree/background looks a little better to me...lol The fact of the matter is that universities need to make money! Online programs can help provide the needed funding! The debate will continue...the point is to know yourself and what is best for you! BTW..I breezed through my ANCC FNP boards...Not bad for a online student, huh?