Published Aug 25, 2012
crr1987
88 Posts
Specifically I'm wondering about the Dallas Fort Worth area in Texas.
I've heard from a few people in this area that the current job market for CRNAs is saturated, at least in DFW area. Thoughts
I'm working on my BSN right now. This is my 2nd degree. I'm considering ACNP as well as CRNA because of being able to work/not borrow money for school. I know the CRNA salary would justify the loans necessary to complete the degree. I'm just not sure I want to give up my full time income(I've worked full time through both of my degrees) and I feel that working as an ACNP would more than satisfy my needs financially career wise.
How did you know you'd enjoy the OR if you had to work in the ICU before school?
I'm wondering what prompted you to pursue CRNA over another advanced practice role.
Thanks!!
missnurse01, MSN, RN
1,280 Posts
Specifically I'm wondering about the Dallas Fort Worth area in Texas. I've heard from a few people in this area that the current job market for CRNAs is saturated, at least in DFW area. ThoughtsI'm working on my BSN right now. This is my 2nd degree. I'm considering ACNP as well as CRNA because of being able to work/not borrow money for school. I know the CRNA salary would justify the loans necessary to complete the degree. I'm just not sure I want to give up my full time income(I've worked full time through both of my degrees) and I feel that working as an ACNP would more than satisfy my needs financially career wise.How did you know you'd enjoy the OR if you had to work in the ICU before school? I'm wondering what prompted you to pursue CRNA over another advanced practice role. Thanks!!
although I am not in school yet, I applied to CRNA school after a shadowing experience when I knew that was what I wanted to do. I would recommend shadowing different advanced degree RNs to see what you like! There are many reasons I did not go the NP route, but one of which was financially as you stated. In my area I would not make more than I do as a staff nurse now, and here PAs are utilized more in specialty areas than NPs as well. I knew I didn't think seeing pt's in the clinic or inpt at a hospital was up my alley for the rest of my life.
good luck on your decision!
Ya I understand. Here in DFW I've not heard about NPs not being utilized in the ER or ICU which is what I would want to do. I know of an ACPNP who works in the pediatric ICU and he told me his hospital starts NPs out at 87k. I'd want to be hourly I think or have an hourly option over 40 hrs/week.
I've also thought about starting my NP degree in the in between time just in case I'm not accepted/it takes more than one application to get accepted.