I am having a very difficult time deciding if I should return to school, specifically for the FNP or AGPCNP program. I have two dependents, so quitting my current RN position and taking out student loans scare me a bit. I like my 4 10s shifts, no weekend, or holidays because I could focus on my family, errands, appointments, etc. As an NP, I would like to work in an outpatient setting, maybe in a specialty clinic (cardiac, GI, and so on). I am beyond grateful if any NPs working in CA could answer the questions below. Thank you very much!
1. Of course it’s not all about the money, but because I have a lot of responsibilities, it is a very important factor to consider. I heard NPs do not get paid much more than RNs but have a lot more responsibilities, while some RNs can make more money than NPs; is this true?
2. Do most NPs in outpatient work 8 hour shifts, 5 days a week? Do you know if there are 4 10s working as an NP in outpatient settings?