There are many opportunities for a nurse practitioner, and they are frequently exciting and rewarding. Additionally, it has the power to significantly alter a patient’s life. However, not every patient interaction can be rewarding for nurses in their line of work. Therefore, you must have a very realistic understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of becoming a nurse practitioner before deciding to pursue nursing degrees.
7 pros of being a nurse practitioner
Here are seven pros of being a nurse practitioner:
1. Physician privileges
If you want to provide patient care without becoming a doctor, becoming a nurse practitioner may be appealing to you. Despite requiring less education, this field offers many of the same benefits as medicine. State-specific privileges differ, but for the most part NPs can order laboratory tests, make diagnoses, and write prescriptions. While some states mandate that NPs work under the direction of a physician, others permit them to function independently.
2. Various specialties
Some NPs have the ability to provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages because they are general nurse practitioners. By using a holistic approach, different populations can avoid illnesses and live healthier lives. Although this is a fantastic career path, if you’re interested in a specific area of medicine, you can also specialize. For instance, if you enjoy working with children, you might choose to specialize in pediatrics. Additionally, you could choose a specialty based on the type of workplace you prefer. For instance, those who enjoy hectic environments might choose emergency care.
3. Flexible schedules
Patients require medical attention around-the-clock, every day of the week. Because of the demand, nurse practitioners can find employment that fits their preferred schedules. For instance, you could work at a doctor’s office if you prefer to do so during regular business hours. If you want to work 12-hour shifts three days a week, an emergency care position might be more suitable.
4. Job security
5. Competitive pay
6. Fulfilling work
The rewarding work is one of the main benefits of being a nurse practitioner. These professionals are held in high regard by society because they treat patients with compassion and medical knowledge. To assist people in leading healthier lives, they create treatment plans and consult with physicians. Additionally, these professionals provide patients’ families with comfort and support during trying times by informing them of available treatment options.
7. Varied routines
A nurse practitioner’s day can differ greatly from day to day. You could conduct examinations and explain test results for patients on your own. Additionally, you could work with medical professionals by assisting with surgery and talking about medication options. Although you may also update patient records at a desk, these tasks frequently require you to stand and move around. The varied schedule usually involves a lot of mental and physical stimulation, keeping you interested in your work all the time.
5 cons of being a nurse practitioner
Here are the five drawbacks of working as a nurse practitioner and how to deal with them:
1. Length of schooling
A prospective nurse practitioner typically completes a bachelor’s degree program in nursing to become a certified registered nurse. Then, they obtain an NP-focused masters or doctoral degree. Some people may be put off by the advanced science-based coursework, but with perseverance and good study habits, your program can be more manageable. Consider pursuing a master’s degree rather than a doctorate if you want to shorten the amount of time you spend in school. Some NP-focused programs even accept students with an associate degree.
2. Student loan debt
Graduate school can be expensive, and this can lead to student loan debt accumulation. Since you’re likely to land a high-paying job after graduation, think of this expense as an investment in your future. You can also lower the cost of your NP program by submitting an application for grants and scholarships.
3. Hectic work environment
A nurse practitioner may work in a stressful environment, particularly if they specialize in emergency medicine. They oversee registered nurses, provide care for multiple patients at once, and submit reports to doctors. By adopting healthy routines outside of work, such as working out, staying hydrated, and eating well, you can reduce the stress of this job. Consider specializing in a field like family or aesthetic care if you want to work in a more tranquil setting.
4. Hazardous work environment
Because NPs care for sick patients, they may come into contact with a variety of diseases. Fortunately, medical professionals insist that patients put on protective gear like masks, gloves, and face shields. Wearing this gear during potentially hazardous interactions can lessen exposure risk.
5. Challenging situations with clients
NPs’ emotionally taxing jobs require them to break difficult news to patients and their families. They can control their own emotions while comforting others by using their emotional intelligence. An NP can maintain a calm environment and deliver high-quality care by knowing how to react when a patient is irate or upset.
Being a Nurse Practitioner: The Pros and Cons (Should You Become a Nurse Practitioner?)
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of being a nurse practitioner?
- Lengthy education path. …
- Continuing to work while being in NP school. …
- You must pass a certification exam to practice. …
- Variability of working hours. …
- Working conditions. …
- Workplace stress. …
- Emotional stress. …
- Legal responsibilities.
Is being a nurse practitioner worth it?
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the job outlook for NPs between 2020 and 2030 is expected to increase by 52%! Becoming a nurse practitioner is worth it due to this high demand! Jobs are aplenty, so you should have no trouble finding new grad NP jobs or switching to your ultimate dream job
Why you shouldn’t become a nurse practitioner?
- Job Security. …
- Flexibility. …
- Opportunities. …
- Rewarding. …
- Personal Growth. …
- Nursing Keeps Life Interesting. …
- Competitive Pay. …
- Respected and Trusted.
