2 answers
Katelynn
Student
Nebraska City, Nebraska
1
Question
Updated
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Is it better to work in a hospital or in a clinic as a nurse practitioner?
High School Senior
4-Year University
Goal: Nurse Practitioner
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2 answers
Martin Schoen
APRN
387
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
It will be based on you as a person. There is no better place, both have pros and cons. You may have to try out both and find what suits YOU best!
Carmen Decker
Nurse Practitioner
21
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Carmen’s Answer
Hi Katelynn,
One isn't "better" than the other, but one will probably suit you better, if that makes sense. I have worked in both, and I really enjoyed both settings, but the job is quite different.
I am a family nurse practitioner and an emergency nurse practitioner. When I work in a primary care clinic, I get to see patients over time. I diagnose chronic conditions and manage them. I have the opportunity to built trust and rapport and help people optimize treatment. I get to see babies grow and people age. When I work in the hospital, I get to help sick patients in a fast-paced environment. Every test I order is STAT; I am treating "right-now" problems. Then I send them back to their primary care provider at the clinic. "Love 'em and leave 'em."
So, the better one is the one that appeals most to you. :)
From a practical stand point, I have weekends and holidays off in a clinic. My days are predictable and I know which patients I am going to see in advance. When I work in the ER, I work rotating shifts; days, nights and mids. I have no idea how many patients I'll see, how old they'll be or what will bring them in, which can be exciting.
Which sounds better to you?
Best,
Carmen
One isn't "better" than the other, but one will probably suit you better, if that makes sense. I have worked in both, and I really enjoyed both settings, but the job is quite different.
I am a family nurse practitioner and an emergency nurse practitioner. When I work in a primary care clinic, I get to see patients over time. I diagnose chronic conditions and manage them. I have the opportunity to built trust and rapport and help people optimize treatment. I get to see babies grow and people age. When I work in the hospital, I get to help sick patients in a fast-paced environment. Every test I order is STAT; I am treating "right-now" problems. Then I send them back to their primary care provider at the clinic. "Love 'em and leave 'em."
So, the better one is the one that appeals most to you. :)
From a practical stand point, I have weekends and holidays off in a clinic. My days are predictable and I know which patients I am going to see in advance. When I work in the ER, I work rotating shifts; days, nights and mids. I have no idea how many patients I'll see, how old they'll be or what will bring them in, which can be exciting.
Which sounds better to you?
Best,
Carmen