In the healthcare sector, there are numerous fields and specializations. Usually, people think of doctors and physicians when it comes to healthcare providers. However, there are other professionals, such as family nurse practitioners, who are an important part of healthcare and provide primary care services in different settings.
A family nurse practitioner (FNP) has a bright career path, as well as the potential to earn more. So, if you already have a BSN degree and want to advance your career, think about entering the FNP field. Registered nurses can become FNPs through the Texas Woman’s University online MSN-FNP program, which follows the new AACN Essential Standards and equips them with the expertise required to take on leadership roles and focus on holistic patient care.
There are numerous advantages of entering the FNP field, and some of them are highlighted below.
1. Pursue a specialty field of your choice
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FNPs provide holistic patient care to patients of all ages. That gives them the flexibility to choose a specialty of their choice. Depending on your interests, you can select pediatrics, internal medicine, urgent care, or even geriatrics. Armed with an FNP degree, you will have more opportunities based on your interests.
2. Higher degree of autonomy
As an FNP, you will be the primary care provider for patients. While RNs do have autonomy, as a family nurse practitioner, you will make your own diagnoses and be responsible for patient outcomes. In certain states, FNPs can work independently and do not have to be supervised by primary care doctors. So, if you enjoy challenges and want to make a difference in patient outcomes, a career in the FNP field could be just what you need.
3. Enjoy increased management responsibilities
An FNP degree not only equips you with clinical skills, investigative capabilities, and problem-solving skills but it also helps you develop your leadership skills. While working as an FNP, you will be collaborating with doctors and other nurses. Delegating responsibilities and managing your team of nurses are major parts of the job.
4. FNPs are in high demand
The demand for nurse practitioners is on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for nurse practitioners is expected to grow by 40% by 2031, with 30,200 jobs being added each year from 2021. Getting an FNP degree will give you access to new job opportunities and enable you to fill the family healthcare needs in your community.
5. Higher earning potential
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Entering the FNP field can take your career to the next level, and with that, you will also boost your earning potential. The average salary paid to FNPs is dependent on the region they work in. Places like Indiana, Hawaii, Connecticut, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York tend to pay higher than other regions.
6. Practice in a range of healthcare settings
As a family nurse practitioner, you are not restricted to working in clinics and hospitals. You can find challenging leadership positions at colleges and schools, NP offices, private physician offices, or even public health departments. An FNP degree gives you the freedom and flexibility to choose where you work.
7. Serve patients better
Nursing is a rewarding and fulfilling career. As a family nurse practitioner, you play an important role in providing quality healthcare to the local community, and that, in turn, leads to better patient outcomes. Besides seeing, diagnosing, and treating patients, you can also counsel them and make them more aware of general wellness and nutrition and the steps they can take to prevent or manage lifestyle and chronic diseases.
8. Provide holistic care
You will find that entering the FNP field is worthwhile as you will take a holistic view of patient care. When you are responsible for seeing, diagnosing, and treating patients, you will keep the needs of the patients at the forefront. By considering your patients’ wishes, you will transform into a patient-centric and compassionate healthcare provider. Most FNPs look for alternative treatments and care that physicians may not consider or be reticent to try. That enables FNPs to take a holistic approach and increases patient satisfaction.
9. Rewarding and fulfilling career
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Nursing is a selfless career option, where your major concern is patient care and better patient outcomes. As an FNP, you enjoy a sense of accomplishment as you know that you made a difference in the lives of your patients and provided them with the best care possible. You can establish benchmarks when providing quality care and feel happy and satisfied knowing you can help those who need assistance and compassionate care.
10. High levels of job satisfaction
Most FNPs state that they have an engaging and enjoyable career. They can maintain a work-life balance without compromising the quality of care. Having an FNP degree enables family nurse practitioners to earn a substantial wage while enjoying high degrees of autonomy and flexibility. And being able to help others makes them feel good. So, job satisfaction is quite high, and many FNPs want to continue in this field for as long as possible.
11. Long-term career option
When you qualify as an FNP, you have the option to change positions as frequently as you like and join sectors that interest you. However, most FNPs like their jobs and tend to work in the same place for the long term. Once you select the area of specialization, chances are high that you will want to continue working where you are. This career is stable and comes with decent pay, respect, and good benefits, making it a worthwhile choice. When you can maintain a work-life balance and have job satisfaction, there are very few reasons to change your position.
So, if you have been putting off earning your online MSN-FNP degree, think again. In this field, you can truly make a difference in the lives of your patients and bring about a change in your community. This rewarding field lays the foundation for professional and personal growth.