Hello fellow nurses, I am a 25 year old RN, BSN with three years of experience in critical care. One of the three years involved travel nursing. Thus I have worked in CT-ICU's, trauma ICU, MICU, CCU and SICU. I also just passed the CCRN. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease, and my disability has forced me to consider leaving bedside nursing, due to the long hours and physical stress on my body. Prior to my diagnosis, I would describe myself as motivated, energetic and one who thrived on the chaos and complexity of critical care. I am considering going back to school full time and feel torn between taking the Education route (MSN in Nsg Education) and the Family Nurse Practitioner route. I feel the role of an NP appeals to me more. I enjoy problem solving, patient education, and the autonomy involved. However, I understand certain NP positions involve long stressful hours at the office. On the other hand, part of me has always wanted to teach, but my nursing background is rather limited when I compare myself to nursing professors I have encountered. I also realize both fields will eventually require PhD's, which I am not wild about, considering the fact that I am still in debt from undergrad loans. Ultimately, I need to pursue a career that is flexible, does not involve 12 hour shifts, and involves lots of sitting. Luckily, I live in the Boston area, where both professions are in great need. Any advice would be much appreciated! Whether you have experience in either field, or have a disability and was forced to leave the bedside, I truly welcome any insight you may have.