Mike L.

I know a bunch of NP's (ANP, FNP's) at the VA, in acute care, in specialty clinics (Cardiology, Urology, GI) - I've worked as an NP at the VA for 3 years - in Geriatrics (Home-Based Primary Care). I worked in the SICU for 2.5 years while in FNP school, and that helped. Being a Vet myself didn't hurt. My Peds rotation as FNP taught me a valuable lesson - patience, patience, patience - even though I had no intention of 'doing Peds'. Sometimes it may take a while to land your 'dream assignment' - sometimes you take the job that's open and wait for the one you want (anyway, that's how I did it) - but be careful, you're developing a career path and a track record. I don't think it matters at all, ANP, FNP. The older vets that I work with are a very, very challenging bunch of guys with laundry lists of comorbitities and longer lists of medications. Great job, every day is different. If you want to work at the VA, they could sure use you.

What a team! What energy! I was 47 when I passed my NCLEX (I had been a Letter Carrier for 20+ years) and, for the past few years, I work as a Family NP for the Veterans Administration - in Geriatrics! I'm 58. Not easy - never regretted a moment.

I work as an an FNP (Gerontology) for the Federal Government, and it is satisfying and frustrating. You will never stop 'being in school'. And you will not get rich on this job, but you will gain more independence and have the opportunity of using clinical judgement in the role of APN. Is the responsibility worth the effort and expense? So far, for me it is. You will find 'bad' physicians and 'good' physicians everywhere. There might be more job opportunities in your area for a more acute care role, but your training will depend upon your mentorships and personal drive.