DC+

I was considering this option because local school clinical schedules are not at all flexible. I would like to keep my current job while in school and I was thinking that this might be a good option. Your input would be vary helpful, I don't want to waste my time or money. your input is appreciated.

I have to echo summitk2's sentiments and not just because he is a fellow Seattlite (go Hawks!) but for more rational reasons. It is fine to chase the money. everybody likes money. But what always gets lost in the shuffle is doing what you love. People change careers because they don't like what they do and want something else, you will see this occur no matter what the paycheck (doctors, lawyers, business men). Unless you are totally enthralled with continually learning about the human body and it's processes health care will bore you and become tedious meaningless work. Especially if the paycheck is good because you will have even more time and money for other diversions. Beyond that you will not put in the effort that someone who is pationate about the process does and you will be forever mediocre at best. On the flip side. If you find yourself browsing medical and nursing journals in your spare time and cruising the internet for the latest in research of new ideas in health care--- by all means step up. take on the challenge and be the best that you can be-- chase the money and you will far surpass another that is more gifted in ability than you simple because of your never ending passion for the field. just my 2 cents

I'm a DC getting nursing degrees on the side while I run my practice. I will finish out as an NP or CRNA and have looked extensively at both. I think that you will find your knowledge from previous schooling goes a long way in making your nursing education easier. The hardest thing for me has been the pharmacology but you might have that all tied up. You will fit anywhere you really want to, just remember there are hoops to jump through for everything worth having and nursing degrees are no different. Some of the lessons (like butt wiping) are unpleasant but are a small part of what makes the final product.

I too have been considering getting both degrees. However, It is my understanding that pay for an NP and for a CRNA are vastly different and that it would be financially wise to max time in the surgical suite as a crna. Is this true for your position? Are you mainly taking on this increased role for love of carreer and sacraficing income or is there a reimbursement equality available with the dual role?