koreanjohn32

AndersRN, its not dissimilar to essentially, practicing medicine after an 18 month ADN. It's surprising how much autonomy you're given as a new nurse. The question is, whether the NP is sufficiently prepared with the time given or the MD is perhaps over-prepared. One is set up to practice in tandem and under another more qualified provider and the other independently. There's probably a reason why the MD is expected to have more clinical practice before being set on their own. All I can say is that the NPs that I know are all extremely capable at their job

Invitale, I'm no troll. If you read my profile, you'll see my stated goal....FNP. Starting in healthcare at 45, I feel the passage of time just a bit too acutely. When FNP was a Master's program (and still is), it felt reachable. Though I already have a BFA, I still need to get my BSN. So, I feel like I'm taking a redundant path (especially when the BSN program isn't giving me much of anything). Finally, the DNP feels like another hurdle to jump across. Basically, another hurdle or really just a barrier. My question is just as much about frustration. However, the discussion DID give me balance and perspective. I'm thankful for that.

Thanks all. Moving on.

Sailornurse, LOL. If someone puts their views on an online discussion board, it's called a discussion for good reason.

Onon2RN, I'm speaking about this particular conversation. What may or may not happen elsewhere is besides the point.

Bluebolt, that's exactly my issue....from what I've found, it doesn't do much to enhance the MNP. If it did, I wouldn't balk at the prospect.

It's interesting....up til now, I've refrained from posting on allnurses precisely because I've seen the level of diatribe between "professionals." But seriously, I've appreciated the input from most of you. Thank you for your thoughtful comments. It gives me much to think about as I move forward

To all you haters, rather than being demeaning and rude for an honest question, for which I still haven't come to a decision about which path to choose, you fit the stereotype of nurses who "eat their young." Stop living the stereotype.

Invitale, why so hateful? It's relative effort vs. Outcome.

Goldenfox, thank you for your comment. I understand the competitive nature of medical school...I come from a family of doctors. My grandfather was one of the first western educated MDs in Korea under the Japanese occupation. My current GPA is 3.9. I'm not worried about getting into med school. However, being older, I wanted to enter medicine relatively quickly, and your post made me realize that even with a DNP, its still much less rigorous and time consuming than MD school. More than that, I love how holistic nursing practice is. I know that the medical model is different. NPs do retain that holistic approach and certainly are more approachable.

Radiantforce, I'm very happy to be an RN. After a successful yet not fulfilling career in industrial design, I became an RN at 45. I LOVE what I do. But, I'm realistic about perception. Loving and valuing yourself is one thing, however realistic public perception is another. To ignore that we have relative "stature" in this world is fallacious.

Thanks for the thoughtful reply. That actually really helps me

I understand. I actually want to be an NP as well, but just not spend more than what is currently required by law, to essentially get more education for something that doesn't further my scope of practice. If you're already an NP, then it makes sense to continue. But, it doesn't make as much sense for someone who is an ADN seeking to advance. For just a bit more time, there's another option. If the law remains where it does, I may continue on and get my MNP. Also, with the shortage of providers, especially in rural areas like the one I live in, we NEED NPs and PAs. But, how does making it harder for someone to get their NP, adding more education requirements, that don't essentially make you a better NP, help that? I understand what it does for the profession, but I do NOT understand how it helps America or nurses like me who want to get out there?

Why is it illogical? I'm an RN trying to decide if I want to go for an advanced degree that allows me to become a provider. But if I have to spend just about as much time doing it, why stop short of being an MD, with, sorry, a lot more stature and scope of practice than a DNP? It's about effort/money/time vs. Outcome

I'm really curious about why the AACN wants all NPs to become DNPs. I understand the notion of "advancing nursing practice" but I think that there's going be a backlash towards this because (1)if you get the additional education, it doesn't mean you actually have the stature of and MD (2) what is it that you actually study? (3)if it requires you to get the same amount of schooling, why not just go for your MD?

I just discovered a FNP program by Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. The credit hour fee is $860. Its: Best, John Kim