Question for FNPs

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Hello all! Unlike what my name is, I am a BSN, RN. I am currently a school nurse. I really do enjoy my job. I especially like the time off. I never thought I would have the opportunity to go back to school and become a FNP. It has always been an out of reach dream. I have recently applied and am waiting for my response. So here is my question. Do you ever have regrets about becoming an FNP? Do you ever wish you would have stayed a BSN? I am getting very nervous about such a huge change. I am not worried about the school part. I have very good study habits and did well in school. I am worried about the stress of being a FNP. How is your schedules? What kind of hours do you work. Off for holidays?

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Specializes in Adult Internal Medicine.

I don't regret it at all, but I can say with absolute confidence, it is not for everyone. Have you shadowed some FNPs to see if the role is something that makes a worthwhile investment for you?

There is considerably more stress as a provider, and while you learn to compartmentalize it with time, it is a role in which the buck stops with you, and that responsibility can be stressful.

I work 3.5-4.5 days a week and I am off weekends and holidays. I do share call responsibility with my partners twice a month for a weekday night and four times a year weekend.

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Thank you so much for your reply. One last question for you. Would you say there is a significant increase in salary from a BSN to NP? (You don't have to tell me what you make, I know this is private information). :)

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Specializes in Adult Internal Medicine.
Thank you so much for your reply. One last question for you. Would you say there is a significant increase in salary from a BSN to NP? (You don't have to tell me what you make, I know this is private information). :)

Some RNs take a pay cut to be an NP, others make significant amount more. I don't know many RNs that make more than I do even with overtime and night/weekend differentials and I do that without any overtime/nights/holidays/weekends.

Nationwide payscale data shows the average pay for a FNP is $97,000 and for RN is $63,000. In more metro areas that gap closes quite a bit, and with experience and differentials it may flip flop.

That being said, do not do it for the money.

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Thank you again for your help! You input has helped me a great deal! Wish me luck! I have applied for an FNP program and now I am in the process of the dreaded wait! I hope you have a great day!

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Specializes in Adult Primary Care.

I have absolutely no regrets. I have been an Adult NP for ten years and I love it. I work in private practice, Internal Medicine / Pulmonary Medicine. Wishing you the best!

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Thank you so much! I really appreciate your response. I am playing the waiting game for my acceptance letter. I will keep you all posted!!

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If you like working as a school nurse, there are many FNPs who work in schools now, especially colleges. Some schools are switching from a school RN to a school FNP or peds NP. Good luck.

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That is a great idea! Thank you so much for your reply!

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