The choice of a future profession is one of the most challenging and responsible steps in human life. Sometimes, it is easy to make a decision, and some people need time and extensive research to define their priorities and needs. In this paper, the comparison of two specialties will be done to contribute to a better understanding of my academic success and professional development plan.
Comparison
A Master of Science Nursing (MSN) is a prestigious opportunity for students to advance their careers. Walden’s MSN program aims at preparing nurse practitioners in different fields. I want to compare the characteristics of the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program and the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) program to make a choice. Although the job openings are equal for FNPs and ACNP, there are certain differences in salary. The average salary of FNPs is about $90, 000 per year (Walden University, n.d.b). During the same period, an ACNP could earn about $98,000 (Walden University, n.d.a). The level of professionalism has to be higher in both specialties, but their areas of work vary. FNPs work with patients of all ages in such areas as family practice, primary care, school health, urgent care, or women’s health (Walden University, n.d.b). ACNPs are invited to emergency departments, trauma centers, and surgical or specialty care units and work with patients who are older than 13 years (Walden University, n.d.a). These differences do not make jobs good or bad; they focus on people’s priorities.
Reasons
Both professions have their advantages and disadvantages, and I prefer to become an FNP because of several reasons. First, I want to work with patients of all ages in different units. For example, I can provide students with knowledge of how to promote or maintain health, as well as help older adults prevent falls. According to Barnes (2015), experience
plays a crucial role in the nursing transition, and I should lose this opportunity to get a well-rounded education. In addition, primary care is one of the units where this specialization may be effectively applied. In this setting, nurses perform many services similar to those of physicians (Rosenberg, 2018). I want to understand how to improve the quality of care and not only treat diseases but prevent their growth. Therefore, to be an FNP means to get access to many patients, sources of information, and rich experiences.
Professional Organization and Participation
Nowadays, nurses are able to promote their knowledge and experiences by joining special organizations. After choosing the FNP as my future career, I want to become a member of the Nurse Practitioner Association of Maryland (NPAM). This organization aims at supporting nurse practitioners in different areas. It is possible to exchange knowledge and experiences, conduct education programs, and promote nurses’ interests in communities. To become its active member, I should pay a student fee and use my best skills to contribute to nursing practice and the improvement of health care in general. It is not enough for me to study; I want to see how my theoretical knowledge can be translated into practice where patients and their families receive professional help.
Conclusion
In general, I can find a number of reasons to prove the correctness of my choice to be an FNP. Not many nurses get an opportunity to work with families and help patients of all ages. Some people find it impossible to know all aspects of care for pediatric, geriatric, or adult patients. I want to prove that everything is possible, and professional nurses could develop their skills with the help of Walden’s MSN program. A medical worker should not only treat patients and recognize symptoms to provide the most effective care plans. As a nurse, I want to prevent health problems and maintain health among people of all ages.
References
Barnes, H. (2015). Exploring the factors that influence nurse practitioner role transition. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 11(2), 178-183. Web.
Rosenberg, J. (2018). Nurse practitioners play an increasing role in primary care. The American Journal of Managed Care. Web.
Walden University. (n.d.a). MSN: Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner. Web.
Walden University. (n.d.b). Master of science in nursing (MSN) – Family nurse practitioner. Web.