When you transition from a registered nurse to a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP), your job transitions from a “job” to a “career.” That transition can be both exciting and uncertain. The transition has been described as carrying the bloody diaper to the provider to ask, “What do I do?” to being the provider. Many refer to it as learning to become the decision maker. That new level of PNP knowledge and responsibility carries with it documented levels of stress and fear that is reasonable but requires support.
When you enter the last six months of your educational training to become a PNP, you might also consider starting your job search. The NAPNAP Career Guide is a great place to find numerous resources that are particularly valuable for PNP New Grads. Consider your PNP network, make a list of references, map out your geographic, practice setting, and unit or clinic preferences, and then start an electronic or paper file to track your plan and efforts. Create a calendar; include dates when you can work on your plan and times when you can interview either by phone or on-site. In addition, include two-four weeks of focused time after you graduate, to study for your boards. Think about your ideal PNP start date as well.
Congratulations to all the December New Grads!
For a list of things a new graduate PNP should consider when evaluating a job offer Click Here.
Looking for a PNP job? Visit Melnic Consulting Group or contact: Jill Gilliland 800-886-7906 jill@melnic.com
