KatieRN

I agree with Chris FNP, I did extensive research on the NP vs PA routes and interviewed as many NP's and PA's as I could. They all have their own biases, but I think the deciding factor for me was that the NP practices under his/her own license. I pursued the RN first, plan to work for a couple of years as an RN, then apply to NP programs. Different regions of the country may vary in terms of the job market for each, I would research what the job market is in your area and talk to as many practicing NP's and PA's as possible.

Hi Michelle, I live in the SF Bay Area. Nursing jobs are plentiful right now in this area, you can pretty much pick where you want to work. Recruitment is a major problem, it is very unusual for nurses to be able to move here from out of the area and afford the high cost of living. I grew up in this area and can only afford to live here because my husband and I already owned a home before the dotcom explosion. If you have family here, you may be able to come out for a visit and check it out. Starting salaries for new grads is around $27-30/hr. depending on where you work. Good luck to you.

Hi Gisele, I also live in CA (SF Bay Area)and just graduated from a "2 year" nursing program which actually took me 3 years to complete because of all the prerequisites. I already have a BS and MS in another field, and even with my prior college coursework, had to take all of my sciences over again, including A&P, Micro, Psych, etc. because it had been over 7 years since I had graduated. The 3 years really does go by quickly, and I would do it all over again. Good luck.

Hi there, just had to respond to your post. I, too, work in IICU, just started at the beginning of this year as a new grad. Overall it's been pretty good, but the past week in particular has been extremely frustrating and stressful and I have cried nearly every day. I don't wear contacts, but my eyes are almost always puffy and swollen due to my continual crying! I'm not usually such a cry baby, but, man, the stress sometimes is unbelievable! I just keep telling myself that tomorrow will be better, and today was, in fact, a little better. Hang in there and know that others can definitely empathize with you. Hope things get better for you soon.