honestly i was surprised when you said you had two kids and still went to school and finished off in a great career. respect to that! i myself am looking forward to PA after high school, and this video was simple, understandable, and to the point, and very encouraging. thanks for sharing!
Actually, I had 3. My twins were 10 months at the time and my son was 6 years old when I started. They are now 16 years old and 9 years old! You can totally do it! Thanks for watching, I greatly appreciate it and the wonderful comments!
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You're awesome! I feel the same way about going to NP school. Really not interested with the nursing theory that is lectured over. I'm currently in a BSN program now and will be endeavoring towards PA school here very soon.
Jackie Oraedu UC Davis has an FNP program that you apply to be a dual track FNP and PA (it adds additional clinical hours because the NPs and PAs are educated together for the most part).
Kaynen, Hi I recommend investigating an NP program for yourself before you make the final decision. I have just completed my Psychiatric NP at a NYC college (hunter) and We took at least 5 classes related to neuropsychiatry, psychopathology, basically understanding the biological and scientific foundations for psychiatric disorders. Then we took detailed assessment courses and one year long psychopharmacology course that focus on not just the medications but how the medicine affects the brain/nervous system to create a therapeutic response and indications for prescribing. Then we completed 630 clinical hours, where most of us carried an independent patient load and recommended psychopharmacology treatment that was approved or disapproved by preceptor. In NY we must have a collaborative agreement with a MD for a set amount of hours, I think its like 1500 but not sure, once we complete these hours, we are able to practice independently. Thus we can have a private practice, etc. I encourage you to do your research, general nursing programs are based on traditional nursing theory but NP programs are based on the medical model ...because we are diagnosing and prescribing, we do throw in a little patient education and health promotion and move from a holistic practice. For instance, the schizophrenic patient who is doing well, prescribed anti-psychotic has eliminated psychotic symptoms, patient is compliant with meds, etc...but we look at all their needs (think maslow), we suggest community outreach programs where they can work, socialize, a support group, refer to social worker for housing issue...etc... I am sure some PA and MDs also do this, but it is not ingrained in them as much as us nurses. I think the only drawback is specializing, so as a Psych np, if I wanted to go into family medicine, I would need to do a post masters programs focused on the biological and scientific underpinnings of medical disorders and appropriate treatment courses. One more thing, for people coming out of NP program who feel unprepared there are many residency programs that pay and offer ongoing support. I had several years in psych, I knew what most disorders looked like from my RN practice, so I had to learn the why, what and when, I also had to learn what to prescribe and why. Think really hard, you already have a BSN, go to school for two to three more years, get your NP and live your life. As for PHD or DNP, that will take you right back to nursing theory. That's about management, improving quality of care and research. Good Luck
Thank you for watching and I appreciate your perspective. A couple of things noted. PAs are trained as generalists and can also do a residency if they choose. Of course all schools will have a little variation in their offerings. Pharmacology is 2-3 semesters, but also intertwined in each course offered and has to be included with clinicals....so maybe a bit longer. I believe that all healthcare professionals are taught about wholistic care, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and appropriate referrals, it's going to be a matter of them utilizing it. My take, you can live after you BSN being a PA, it's a matter of what you want. I stand on my comparison of the clinical hours, nursing theory, and options to move within specialities.
Thanks for watching, that is a cool concept. I'm so confused as to why one would want both? I may be misreading. There are two different board exams, hmmm. Or, is it that they are just learning together. I took classes with dental students and physical therapy students, is it like that?
6 years late comment, but I must say having just completed an online NP school you are pretty much spot on. In my RN to BSN program we did nursing theory, ethics, leadership, etc... Then starting my MSN program we did all of those classes and more such as health policy, theoretical perspectives, and population health. Essentially all I did for two years was write weekly papers and there was very little in terms of disease/patient focus. Clinical was very good, otherwise I didn't get much out of the program overall. I specialize in wound care and had a job lined up as an NP working in the same specialty so PA school would've been a lot of extra time and money for me to accomplish the same thing. Although I do believe I would have enjoyed a more medicine based approach that PA school has to offer.
Thanks for watching! I did make an updated version of this video, but the foundation is the same. I wanted more....and getting my BSN was painful because it was all administrative. I don't regret my journey and have gained so much experience. I get asked this question all the time...even today.
I am so happy to have stumbled upon your video. What you said about becoming an NP is exactly how I feel. I have been going back and forth about MD or PA school, and I can most definitely relate to a lot of what you mentioned! I'm officially a licensed RN, and I'm going to work as an RN while I get my BSN, and save money for PA school. I enjoyed your video, and your reasons for deciding the PA route.
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I truly respect your decision why you pursued PA vs NP. I am a FNP and your route is similar in why I went advanced. My classmates often discuss how NP school could be better by incorporating more of the medical model than nursing when it came to learning the science of what we do. I am so happy, you found your niche as I have. I make it appoint to stay current and have a lot of apps to help in my practice. Best wishes in your career.
Thanks fr watching and thanks so much for your comment. Yeah, it's a different view from my nursing experience to look at what is lacking. I love the science. Unfortunately, I don't see the NP programs changing since they produce so many students. Blessings and best wishes to you as well!
Yesssss I feel the same way I’ll be 25 this year I’m a cna I really had my heart set on CRNA but after A LOT of research I don’t believe it will keep my interest like PA would I’m doing surgical tech right now beyond really love surgery I’m going to get my bsn so I can become a first assist and I’ll shadow a crna and a pa before I officially decide but I agree with basically all your reasons for choosing pa over np and crna I never thought about being a np
Thank you so much for watching. Shadowing mattered in my decision making process. Being a CRNA sounded cool, I just need stimulation constantly! Best of luck on your endeavors!
Ohhhhhh myyyyy lord! This is the video that I have been looking for! I am in nursing school right now about to graduate, and I'm already bored. I am currently trying to make the decision on PA school or medical school. I now have to finish nursing school because I am having advisors tell me that it will look bad if I quit nursing school. I am with you in encouraging people to SHADOW all the roles in healthcare before picking a career to go into.
Thanks for watching and to be honest, nursing is a great experience, but if you're not called to do it, you will be unhappy. Why pursuit something that isn't your passion. Put it in prayer then bust the move that fits you!
I kept hearing you speak about the patient and giving care. I hope that is true because that is what NP or PA or any care giver to patients is all about to me. I went to a two NP and do to the treatment and lack of real patient concern shown by both. I bought a MEDICAL ALERT BRACELET that states "I refuse any treatment form any Nurse Practitioner." I realize that Doctors get the God complex but I sure don't need it from a Nurse Practitioner. I am an individual and should be treated with respect to both my privacy and modesty. I hope you are able to not fall into the narcissistic God complex that I was exposed to.
Thank you for watching! I think there will always be good, bad, better, worse no matter the role. There will be those who have questionable motives, but my focus has always been the patient. I never got into my profession for money or clout. I'm sorry you had a not-so-good experience and hope in the future, every health care provider you encounter has your health at the forefront.
thats pretty much my dilemma now. i was previously pursuing PA but i changed my mind to NP only because i cant afford to be unemployed for two years... i dont have a car nor can i have one because my CNA pay isnt enough plus if i chose to go to PA then even more reason to not get a car cause i wont be able to pay it... i live with my single mom so i cant count on her because shes already struggling financially. but i still have PA at the back of my head because of the science, and flexibility. i dont really have an interest in surgery so i figured being a FNP i can switch from family to pediatrics,etc but i always wonder since NP dont take hard core science, how are they medical providers? like whats their knowledge base like? i tried asking a couple of NP but they cant seem to answer the question quite right and how are they independent? i dont understand and im trying to figure it out so i can make a decision even tho i plan on applying to accelerated BSN, direct entry MSN, & PA school. i cant afford to waste any more time.. im going on 5 years with my undergraduate.
First, thanks for watching my videos and I'm happy to answer questions if I am able. The finances are definitely of concern when making these decisions. I went from working as an RN to living off student loans, my husband's salary (divorced now), a mortgage, raising 3 kids, having other bills. Some things I did sacrifice. I did mess up my credit during school by paying the things I absolutely needed, did not take any vacations, never partied, let medical bills go to collections (kids needed surgery while I was in school, had to pay for my c-section stuff still)....One of the reasons I went PA was because of the science load. Even in my nursing undergrad I didn't have to take a lot of science. The teaching styles are different. You will still need to take pharmacology, pathology, things of that nature. The clinical experience is different. See, the thought behind getting into NP school before was that the nurses would be out practicing, gaining experience to not need all of the clinical, but that's not the trend now. People my go right into a NP program. I would say getting into PA school is much more competitive.
If PA have more knowledge then why are NPs more independent and can practice on their own? Think about it. Why does the supposedly more knowledgeable PA have to have a physician looking over there shoulder all the time? NPs just as good as PA at providing healthcare and also has to understand the "science" but has the "holistic" from the nursing side as well.
So happy I found this!! I'm in an adn program now and I thought I was crazy. Theory bores me to death. I literally dread going to theory. I love everything else.i Do wish we had more science. And I stumbled upon the idea of being a PA after seeing a PA instead of a DR. IM definitely no longer thinking about becoming a NP. I'll be applying to PA school as soon as I finish my BSN. schools here require 3 years of medical exp for PA school admission. Thanks for the video !
Yes, you need a bachelors degree and the necessary prerequisite courses to apply to PA school. Also patient care experience. You can pretty much major in anything as long as you have the other two requirements, just make sure you pass with a B or better in those prerequisites and overall good gpa.
Absolutely! I suggest looking at schools you are interested in and if you need classes, take them as electives while you are in nursing school. Yes, you will be the one looking "weird" not taking an easy class, but you are on a mission! Do it!
Great video, stumbled upon by accident. Wow 8 mos old twins when you started PA school! Comment to previous poster re that bachelor RN 's are going directly to NP programs - that makes me crazy also. Along with the fact that by the mid to late 90s that PA programs started admitting kids practically straight out of HS or with some college and a few dozen hrs volunteering in a hospital or shadowing a PA. Extensive health care experience as an important thing for admission to Advanced Practitioner programs has gone by the way side as universities have learned that both NP and PA programs are huge money earners for them. I'm not saying that people without extensive experience can't learn to be good practitioners. Also not directing this only to the young. There were other 40 y/o"s in my program who came from non medical backgrounds. Ok enough of my political outlook on stuff.. PS I have always loved and supported my NP colleagues. Back to Jackie : big props to you. What program did you go to? Thanks again for sharing your decision making process. I think it will really help other RN's. -bjm retired PA
Awww, thanks so much for watching! Yes. I was one of the oldest in my class when I started and that was 25! That's not even old! The youngest was 20! When we finished the program, I was 28. I started as a CNA to RN then PA-C. All of that experience helped me.
Good information. I would comment and say that one has to do what works for him or her. I was reading the comments and the one that I agree with is in regards to not having the flexibility or the financial means to go to PA school which requires on site attendance. My question to the author of this video is: if you had to do it all over would you have gone to PA school from the start? Second question, being that PA used a different model are you still expected to keep up with your CEs for your RN? I'm a BSN nurse and I'm planning to start NP school in a few months and a theory course is not a deal breaker for me because their are more practical classes in an NP program than what's given credit for. I also need to mention is that one is not in school forever and that real learning comes from the field, interaction with the patients and staff. I in no way undermine a RNs choice to go to PA school. It's just that in my opinion that route as an BSN-RN is not attractive. Also one must consider the grades needed to enter a PA school. If your grades were not great in RN school you will have to go back and take classes over to improve your prerequisite GPA which is a total waste of time. NP programs have a lower if any prerequisite GPA requirement. The programs understand that experience in the field is the true prerequisite for mid level advancement. That decision sounds more of dissatisfaction with being an RN more than just taking one or two theory classes. I believe whole hearted that if the author of this video have gone the NP route she would have had the same satisfaction that she proclaims now.
Michael Edmeade thanks for watching, responding and your opinion. God is intentional and purposeful in His plans for all. While there are factors that would deter people from pursuing both, my answer was definitely nursing theory, a clinical experience that is vastly different, wanting flexibility and a challenge. In my opinion, nurse practitioner schools are churning out NPs where some don't learn to suture, apply splints, not as intense pharmacology and without having to recertify ever. 500-700 hrs of clinical experience vs 2000+ is not equivalent. Like I mentioned, there was a time a nurse would work and gain experience before entering and that isn't the case now. Some just go right through the program. Don't get me wrong, there are PAs that don't get a lot of clinical experience, but they are given a great one during school to add on to whatever patient experience they had before entering. My observation is based off what I've seen. Everyone w has to do what works for them. I'm glad of the route I chose.
Love the video! I'm currently a freshman at Marist College in New York State. I never knew of the PA profession, until a year ago and did my research on it. Currently I am a medical technology major (to become a medical technologist) but sadly they don't make much money. I wanted to go to PA school after 2 years working as a medical technologist. That was my plann.....but I'm very indecisive because I'm scarred of the idea that as a PA I would be taking the same certification exam every 10 years. Like if I focus in one specialty how am I supposed to know everything else if I'm focused on one specialty? Failing the PANRE or PANCE is horrifying, and you can't take it until 6 months after your last attempt. For NPs it's different, you can take the test more frequently. You already have Nursing knowledge and learn more things, but I feel it would be less intense than PA school. Nowadays PA school is very very competitive and many have to try so many times to get in. It's not too late for me to transfer to my local community college. (2 year general studies (but my first year will count at Marist), 2 years nursing ADN, and then 2 years BSN with the new program my community college started with a 4-year school) so a total of 6 years for my BSN in nursing. I could work summers and breaks as a CNA since I will be taking a CNA class my spring semester of my freshman year. I would work as a CNA until I get my ADN and then works as an RN until I get my BSN. I'm just so unsure of PA and NP bc I'm scarred of the requirements for PAs to stay licensed. And PA school I know is very very rigorous, I saw that the PA schools regularly have it's students taking 20+ credits credits per semester for 2-3 years straight no breaks. (Summer, fall, spring) 😅 Im worried about not getting in PA school, or not getting the flow of how hard it is, the idea of having to take the PANCE and PANRE and failing. Maybe, I'm just cutting myself short 😥
Thanks for watching, great questions and concerns. The recertification process is not as intimidating as it seems. The rigor adds to credibility in my opinion. Nursing is a great profession, and the benefit of advancing in nursing is the Full practice authority in some states...but if tests scare you, I would figure practicing solo might scare you as well. PA school is challenging, but not impossible. The load is heavy for sure.
Hey there, I am 20 years old and working as a cna in a nursing home. I was planning on starting my prerequisites for nursing in January but sadly I feel the same. I want more. More of a challenge, more knowledge and surgery .. I know that it is going to take years for me to get there ( I don't even have an associate) but I don't want to be working as a cna much longer .. I'm confused. I don't know what to do
Thanks for watching! You for sure can do it. Nursing is a great major to have if you want to pursue that as undergrad, but your CNA experience would definitely count as patient contact hours. It's a matter of what you want to do. If you didn't get into PA school right away, you would be able to fall back on either for income. Never sell yourself short. God bless. Check out my book on Amazon, it may be helpful as well! www.amazon.com/PA-Jackie-Physician-Assistant-Questions-ebook/dp/B074Q3PKD1/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502980790&sr=8-1&keywords=pa+q%26a+with+jackie
It's gonna take you 7 years to start getting paid as a PA. (4 years for Bachelor's and 2-3 year PA program) Majoring in nursing is a great idea because after 4 years you can be a Registered Nurse (which has good pay) and try to get into PA School for which you would already have most of the prerequisites (if you perform well). Then after 2-3 years you are a PA which is a great challenging and interesting job with potential for a 6 figures salary once you get some experience
Thanks for watching and commenting. Ideally, yes to make "PA money." Most people are making some money doing something else, gaining health care experience along the way since it is required. Majoring in nursing worked for me, it may not work for others, plus I had 5 years of working nursing experience before applying to PA school. 6 figures is pretty easy and attainable after being a PA for a short amount of time.
Do you think it would be a good idea to go to an undergraduate school while being a Licensed practical nurse and then apply to PA school after I get my bachelors degree (in something like health sciences) or should I go to a nursing school to get my BSN or ADN to become an RN and then apply to PA school?
Thank you for watching and that is kind of tough to answer. If you can live off your LPN degree and find a flexible job for you to complete your pre-reqs, do that. It really depends on your life situation at the time of application. You have to reassess at each step. it may be more cost-effective to get your ADN or BSN because RN jobs pay more than LPN.
Congrats on PA school..I agree with you regarding PA vs. NP...NP school used to be reserved for "seasoned" RNs mostly from the ICU/ER background, and the older NPs were top notch (at least my experiences with them as a medic in the Army). Now however, many schools have a direct entry program to MSN (and probably DNP now that many programs are migrating to a doctorate) for anyone possessing a Bachelors, and many NP programs can be done online. I personally wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of a NP who had obtained their NP via an online program (just my opinion), plus I like the idea of receiving my training alongside (in some schools) a medical student...Great and informative video...Thanks for posting :)
Thanks so much for watching! Yes, what you say is so true! Unfortunately, some parts of medicine is getting scary with the streamlining. I believe the quality is just not there. I'm baffled at the number of online programs as well!
I will be making application sometime early in 2018, and my sincerest hope is that I am not too old (I know that programs SAY they don't discriminate with regards to age, sex, religion, etc., but having worked in the high-tech arena for most of my adult life, that's bs lol) I only wish that I had taken the leap of faith and applied many years ago, as I truly loved what I did as a Medic in the Army, and deeply regret that I id not apply attend the Interservice Medical Academy, and obtain my PA in the early '80's on the Army's dime...Best of luck to you in your career, and thank you for posting such relevant, and inspirational videos :)
Timothy Anderson. If you can diagnose your headache, for example, by yourself and take Tylenol why wouldn’t a NP, online or not, with a masters care for your basic health care needs. By the way after online sessions then follow clinicals where a student NP shadows a NP or MD. Big deal? I don’t think so. We will refer you, as needed. Also, if all drugs are available OTC anyone can treat him/her-self. If your A1c is diabetic we start you on an oral med then have you come in 3 months to check also liver and advise dietary changes/weight loss. Big deal? Nope 👎.
Thank you for watching and commenting. Math....oh, I definitely only took the minimal required and I saw tutor for things I did not understand. You have tools like TH-cam and other online things to help that I did not at the time. You want to do the best in your science classes though. If math isn't your thing, do enough to pass and get into your science class and rock it out.
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Hmm..you like the medical model more than the nursing model and you feel PA program is more rigorous than NP. The thing is..is it really worth the extra time and money (as a BSN holding nurse) to go to PA school over NP program if at the end of the day youre basically doing the same exact job. You will become proficient at your job through real life work..not school..school provides you with the base of knowledge to BEGIN this journey. Also in going the PA route, you've restricted yourself in the amount of autonomy you could've had with NP. It is unlikely the MDs will allow PAs to independently open their own practices in the future but today there are several states that allow NPs to do so. Providers in general are life long learners..the best ones will continue to improve and expand their skills long after school. The fact you advanced your education period and wanted to challenge yourself shows you'll be a great provider no matter what..So regardless of what I think, I appreciate your decision.
You're right with the Full Practice Authoritiy part. I still never want to take another nursing theory class ever in life, lol. Medicine is forever evolving. I believe at some point, we will be granted FPA and we do not need permission slips from doctors, just great lobbying and clearing up what we do and have been doing for the past 50+ years. Medicine is collaborative in nature, so even the NP that opens their own practice has to shoot ideas with someone, they just aren't tied by the paperwork.
I have a question, will nursing have all the prerequisites needed for PA school? or It will be easy because I did BSN and did a patient care experience
The prequisites depend on the program you are applying to. I suggest looking at what school you want to get into, seeing what they require and taking those classes as electives if not part of your nursing program.
I am undergrad doing a public health bachelors, I am not sure what to do, there are so many options, absn accelerated bachelors nursing, Elmn entry levels masters nursing, or bsn basic bachelors nursing, or just get emt experience and work experience and then applying to pa school, why would someone do msnnp or msnfnp masters nurse practitioner or masters family nurse practitioner instead of going to pa school right after their bsn in nursing? Don't physician assistant get paid more than nurse practitioner or family nurse practitioner?
Honestly it is going to depend on the charge. All health fields dealing with people have a Caregiver background check that is performed. The questions are about abuse to patients, the elderly, children. I'm sure there may be some other things that may cause this to be a challenge in pursuit, but it's good to check with each state as far as their practices
Sad do you know you are an ASSITANT of someone. You NEVER understand what a nurse is ... this ia SAD. A Nurse Practitioner can have their own practice. Plus you can be a Psych Nurse, Nurse Anesthesis and have your own practice. You'll be SORRY to be a PA....I am PROUD TO BE A NURSE PRACTITIONER.
Thank you for watching and commenting. Clearly, you took my video as a dig. If you love being a NP, great. I was a nurse and legally, I still am a nurse, and I am sure you have never been a PA, nor understand the path we take. This video is about my why.
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honestly i was surprised when you said you had two kids and still went to school and finished off in a great career. respect to that! i myself am looking forward to PA after high school, and this video was simple, understandable, and to the point, and very encouraging. thanks for sharing!
Actually, I had 3. My twins were 10 months at the time and my son was 6 years old when I started. They are now 16 years old and 9 years old! You can totally do it! Thanks for watching, I greatly appreciate it and the wonderful comments!
Lol, thanks. I plan on being fly until I die!
Thank you! Right now, that is Ms. Woman United States......I want the world lol
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You're awesome! I feel the same way about going to NP school. Really not interested with the nursing theory that is lectured over. I'm currently in a BSN program now and will be endeavoring towards PA school here very soon.
Thanks so much! Yes, I was over the whole nursing theory. I wanted the juice, the medicine, the science. I strongly encourage PA school. Good luck!
Jackie Oraedu UC Davis has an FNP program that you apply to be a dual track FNP and PA (it adds additional clinical hours because the NPs and PAs are educated together for the most part).
Kaynen, Hi I recommend investigating an NP program for yourself before you make the final decision. I have just completed my Psychiatric NP at a NYC college (hunter) and We took at least 5 classes related to neuropsychiatry, psychopathology, basically understanding the biological and scientific foundations for psychiatric disorders. Then we took detailed assessment courses and one year long psychopharmacology course that focus on not just the medications but how the medicine affects the brain/nervous system to create a therapeutic response and indications for prescribing. Then we completed 630 clinical hours, where most of us carried an independent patient load and recommended psychopharmacology treatment that was approved or disapproved by preceptor. In NY we must have a collaborative agreement with a MD for a set amount of hours, I think its like 1500 but not sure, once we complete these hours, we are able to practice independently. Thus we can have a private practice, etc. I encourage you to do your research, general nursing programs are based on traditional nursing theory but NP programs are based on the medical model ...because we are diagnosing and prescribing, we do throw in a little patient education and health promotion and move from a holistic practice. For instance, the schizophrenic patient who is doing well, prescribed anti-psychotic has eliminated psychotic symptoms, patient is compliant with meds, etc...but we look at all their needs (think maslow), we suggest community outreach programs where they can work, socialize, a support group, refer to social worker for housing issue...etc... I am sure some PA and MDs also do this, but it is not ingrained in them as much as us nurses.
I think the only drawback is specializing, so as a Psych np, if I wanted to go into family medicine, I would need to do a post masters programs focused on the biological and scientific underpinnings of medical disorders and appropriate treatment courses.
One more thing, for people coming out of NP program who feel unprepared there are many residency programs that pay and offer ongoing support. I had several years in psych, I knew what most disorders looked like from my RN practice, so I had to learn the why, what and when, I also had to learn what to prescribe and why.
Think really hard, you already have a BSN, go to school for two to three more years, get your NP and live your life.
As for PHD or DNP, that will take you right back to nursing theory. That's about management, improving quality of care and research.
Good Luck
Thank you for watching and I appreciate your perspective. A couple of things noted. PAs are trained as generalists and can also do a residency if they choose. Of course all schools will have a little variation in their offerings. Pharmacology is 2-3 semesters, but also intertwined in each course offered and has to be included with clinicals....so maybe a bit longer. I believe that all healthcare professionals are taught about wholistic care, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and appropriate referrals, it's going to be a matter of them utilizing it. My take, you can live after you BSN being a PA, it's a matter of what you want.
I stand on my comparison of the clinical hours, nursing theory, and options to move within specialities.
Thanks for watching, that is a cool concept. I'm so confused as to why one would want both? I may be misreading. There are two different board exams, hmmm. Or, is it that they are just learning together. I took classes with dental students and physical therapy students, is it like that?
6 years late comment, but I must say having just completed an online NP school you are pretty much spot on. In my RN to BSN program we did nursing theory, ethics, leadership, etc... Then starting my MSN program we did all of those classes and more such as health policy, theoretical perspectives, and population health. Essentially all I did for two years was write weekly papers and there was very little in terms of disease/patient focus. Clinical was very good, otherwise I didn't get much out of the program overall. I specialize in wound care and had a job lined up as an NP working in the same specialty so PA school would've been a lot of extra time and money for me to accomplish the same thing. Although I do believe I would have enjoyed a more medicine based approach that PA school has to offer.
Thanks for watching! I did make an updated version of this video, but the foundation is the same. I wanted more....and getting my BSN was painful because it was all administrative. I don't regret my journey and have gained so much experience. I get asked this question all the time...even today.
I am so happy to have stumbled upon your video. What you said about becoming an NP is exactly how I feel. I have been going back and forth about MD or PA school, and I can most definitely relate to a lot of what you mentioned! I'm officially a licensed RN, and I'm going to work as an RN while I get my BSN, and save money for PA school. I enjoyed your video, and your reasons for deciding the PA route.
Thank you so, so much for watching! I appreciate your kind words and wish you the best of luck in your pursuits!
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www.amazon.com/PA-Jackie-Physician-Assistant-Questions-ebook/dp/B074Q3PKD1/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502980790&sr=8-1&keywords=pa+q%26a+with+jackie
I truly respect your decision why you pursued PA vs NP. I am a FNP and your route is similar in why I went advanced. My classmates often discuss how NP school could be better by incorporating more of the medical model than nursing when it came to learning the science of what we do. I am so happy, you found your niche as I have. I make it appoint to stay current and have a lot of apps to help in my practice. Best wishes in your career.
Thanks fr watching and thanks so much for your comment. Yeah, it's a different view from my nursing experience to look at what is lacking. I love the science. Unfortunately, I don't see the NP programs changing since they produce so many students. Blessings and best wishes to you as well!
I agree with you. Going through the BSN program was "hair pulling" I couldn't stand all those stupid theory papers. Thank you, very informative.
Thank you so much for watching! I appreciate it. Yes, OMG nursing theory classes!!! If you think of any topics/questions, shoot my way!
Haha. There's hair pulling in PA school of a different kind.
That is the exact reason why I wanted to be a PA. I want to know “why” for everything lol
qamariah ruffin. You can’t know “the why’s” for everything in 2 years or lifetime. Do what appeals to you and works for you. You seem smart.
Man in scrub Dallas You are absolutely Right that goes beyond picking a career or why to choose it. I needed to hear that. Thank you
Same here!
From one PA to another: thank you for posting this fantastic, informative video!
Absolutely Great 👍🏻 from a 30 year PA you are SOooo Correct!
God Bless you and your family 🙏🏼
Yesssss I feel the same way I’ll be 25 this year I’m a cna I really had my heart set on CRNA but after A LOT of research I don’t believe it will keep my interest like PA would I’m doing surgical tech right now beyond really love surgery I’m going to get my bsn so I can become a first assist and I’ll shadow a crna and a pa before I officially decide but I agree with basically all your reasons for choosing pa over np and crna I never thought about being a np
Thank you so much for watching. Shadowing mattered in my decision making process. Being a CRNA sounded cool, I just need stimulation constantly! Best of luck on your endeavors!
Came across this, I think you just helped make my decision. Thank you.
Thank you for watching! Best of luck on your journey! I do not regret it!
Ohhhhhh myyyyy lord! This is the video that I have been looking for! I am in nursing school right now about to graduate, and I'm already bored. I am currently trying to make the decision on PA school or medical school. I now have to finish nursing school because I am having advisors tell me that it will look bad if I quit nursing school. I am with you in encouraging people to SHADOW all the roles in healthcare before picking a career to go into.
Thanks for watching and to be honest, nursing is a great experience, but if you're not called to do it, you will be unhappy. Why pursuit something that isn't your passion. Put it in prayer then bust the move that fits you!
I kept hearing you speak about the patient and giving care. I hope that is true because that is what NP or PA or any care giver to patients is all about to me. I went to a two NP and do to the treatment and lack of real patient concern shown by both. I bought a MEDICAL ALERT BRACELET that states "I refuse any treatment form any Nurse Practitioner." I realize that Doctors get the God complex but I sure don't need it from a Nurse Practitioner. I am an individual and should be treated with respect to both my privacy and modesty. I hope you are able to not fall into the narcissistic God complex that I was exposed to.
Thank you for watching! I think there will always be good, bad, better, worse no matter the role. There will be those who have questionable motives, but my focus has always been the patient. I never got into my profession for money or clout. I'm sorry you had a not-so-good experience and hope in the future, every health care provider you encounter has your health at the forefront.
thats pretty much my dilemma now. i was previously pursuing PA but i changed my mind to NP only because i cant afford to be unemployed for two years... i dont have a car nor can i have one because my CNA pay isnt enough plus if i chose to go to PA then even more reason to not get a car cause i wont be able to pay it... i live with my single mom so i cant count on her because shes already struggling financially. but i still have PA at the back of my head because of the science, and flexibility. i dont really have an interest in surgery so i figured being a FNP i can switch from family to pediatrics,etc but i always wonder since NP dont take hard core science, how are they medical providers? like whats their knowledge base like? i tried asking a couple of NP but they cant seem to answer the question quite right and how are they independent? i dont understand and im trying to figure it out so i can make a decision even tho i plan on applying to accelerated BSN, direct entry MSN, & PA school. i cant afford to waste any more time.. im going on 5 years with my undergraduate.
not all PA's do surgery you actually have a choice to work with many kinds of doctors.
First, thanks for watching my videos and I'm happy to answer questions if I am able. The finances are definitely of concern when making these decisions. I went from working as an RN to living off student loans, my husband's salary (divorced now), a mortgage, raising 3 kids, having other bills. Some things I did sacrifice. I did mess up my credit during school by paying the things I absolutely needed, did not take any vacations, never partied, let medical bills go to collections (kids needed surgery while I was in school, had to pay for my c-section stuff still)....One of the reasons I went PA was because of the science load. Even in my nursing undergrad I didn't have to take a lot of science. The teaching styles are different. You will still need to take pharmacology, pathology, things of that nature. The clinical experience is different. See, the thought behind getting into NP school before was that the nurses would be out practicing, gaining experience to not need all of the clinical, but that's not the trend now. People my go right into a NP program. I would say getting into PA school is much more competitive.
True. Not all PAs work in surgery.You are most likely to see a PA vs a NP working in surgery though...meaning the operating room as a first assist.
If PA have more knowledge then why are NPs more independent and can practice on their own? Think about it. Why does the supposedly more knowledgeable PA have to have a physician looking over there shoulder all the time? NPs just as good as PA at providing healthcare and also has to understand the "science" but has the "holistic" from the nursing side as well.
So happy I found this!! I'm in an adn program now and I thought I was crazy. Theory bores me to death. I literally dread going to theory. I love everything else.i Do wish we had more science. And I stumbled upon the idea of being a PA after seeing a PA instead of a DR. IM definitely no longer thinking about becoming a NP. I'll be applying to PA school as soon as I finish my BSN. schools here require 3 years of medical exp for PA school admission. Thanks for the video !
Thank you so much for watching and yes! God bless you on your endeavors!
I really appreciate your videos.
Thank you!
www.amazon.com/PA-Jackie-Physician-Assistant-Questions-ebook/dp/B074Q3PKD1/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502980790&sr=8-1&keywords=pa+q%26a+with+jackie
Wait you mean I can get my BSN and go to PA school??? :o
Yes, you need a bachelors degree and the necessary prerequisite courses to apply to PA school. Also patient care experience. You can pretty much major in anything as long as you have the other two requirements, just make sure you pass with a B or better in those prerequisites and overall good gpa.
Absolutely! I suggest looking at schools you are interested in and if you need classes, take them as electives while you are in nursing school. Yes, you will be the one looking "weird" not taking an easy class, but you are on a mission! Do it!
You’re video was great! I’m also an RN thinking about going to PA school. Have you kept up with your RN license now that you’re a PA?
Thanks for watching! Yes, I still have my nursing license.....I paid $1000s for the degree, I may as well keep it up, right?
Great video, stumbled upon by accident. Wow 8 mos old twins when you started PA school! Comment to previous poster re that bachelor RN 's are going directly to NP programs - that makes me crazy also. Along with the fact that by the mid to late 90s that PA programs started admitting kids practically straight out of HS or with some college and a few dozen hrs volunteering in a hospital or shadowing a PA. Extensive health care experience as an important thing for admission to Advanced Practitioner programs has gone by the way side as universities have learned that both NP and PA programs are huge money earners for them. I'm not saying that people without extensive experience can't learn to be good practitioners. Also not directing this only to the young. There were other 40 y/o"s in my program who came from non medical backgrounds. Ok enough of my political outlook on stuff.. PS I have always loved and supported my NP colleagues.
Back to Jackie : big props to you. What program did you go to?
Thanks again for sharing your decision making process. I think it will really help other RN's. -bjm retired PA
Awww, thanks so much for watching! Yes. I was one of the oldest in my class when I started and that was 25! That's not even old! The youngest was 20! When we finished the program, I was 28. I started as a CNA to RN then PA-C. All of that experience helped me.
Good information. I would comment and say that one has to do what works for him or her.
I was reading the comments and the one that I agree with is in regards to not having the flexibility or the financial means to go to PA school which requires on site attendance.
My question to the author of this video is: if you had to do it all over would you have gone to PA school from the start?
Second question, being that PA used a different model are you still expected to keep up with your CEs for your RN?
I'm a BSN nurse and I'm planning to start NP school in a few months and a theory course is not a deal breaker for me because their are more practical classes in an NP program than what's given credit for.
I also need to mention is that one is not in school forever and that real learning comes from the field, interaction with the patients and staff.
I in no way undermine a RNs choice to go to PA school. It's just that in my opinion that route as an BSN-RN is not attractive. Also one must consider the grades needed to enter a PA school. If your grades were not great in RN school you will have to go back and take classes over to improve your prerequisite GPA which is a total waste of time. NP programs have a lower if any prerequisite GPA requirement. The programs understand that experience in the field is the true prerequisite for mid level advancement.
That decision sounds more of dissatisfaction with being an RN more than just taking one or two theory classes. I believe whole hearted that if the author of this video have gone the NP route she would have had the same satisfaction that she proclaims now.
Michael Edmeade thanks for watching, responding and your opinion. God is intentional and purposeful in His plans for all. While there are factors that would deter people from pursuing both, my answer was definitely nursing theory, a clinical experience that is vastly different, wanting flexibility and a challenge. In my opinion, nurse practitioner schools are churning out NPs where some don't learn to suture, apply splints, not as intense pharmacology and without having to recertify ever. 500-700 hrs of clinical experience vs 2000+ is not equivalent. Like I mentioned, there was a time a nurse would work and gain experience before entering and that isn't the case now. Some just go right through the program. Don't get me wrong, there are PAs that don't get a lot of clinical experience, but they are given a great one during school to add on to whatever patient experience they had before entering. My observation is based off what I've seen. Everyone w has to do what works for them. I'm glad of the route I chose.
Love the video! I'm currently a freshman at Marist College in New York State. I never knew of the PA profession, until a year ago and did my research on it. Currently I am a medical technology major (to become a medical technologist) but sadly they don't make much money. I wanted to go to PA school after 2 years working as a medical technologist. That was my plann.....but I'm very indecisive because I'm scarred of the idea that as a PA I would be taking the same certification exam every 10 years. Like if I focus in one specialty how am I supposed to know everything else if I'm focused on one specialty? Failing the PANRE or PANCE is horrifying, and you can't take it until 6 months after your last attempt. For NPs it's different, you can take the test more frequently. You already have Nursing knowledge and learn more things, but I feel it would be less intense than PA school. Nowadays PA school is very very competitive and many have to try so many times to get in. It's not too late for me to transfer to my local community college. (2 year general studies (but my first year will count at Marist), 2 years nursing ADN, and then 2 years BSN with the new program my community college started with a 4-year school) so a total of 6 years for my BSN in nursing. I could work summers and breaks as a CNA since I will be taking a CNA class my spring semester of my freshman year. I would work as a CNA until I get my ADN and then works as an RN until I get my BSN. I'm just so unsure of PA and NP bc I'm scarred of the requirements for PAs to stay licensed. And PA school I know is very very rigorous, I saw that the PA schools regularly have it's students taking 20+ credits credits per semester for 2-3 years straight no breaks. (Summer, fall, spring) 😅 Im worried about not getting in PA school, or not getting the flow of how hard it is, the idea of having to take the PANCE and PANRE and failing. Maybe, I'm just cutting myself short 😥
Thanks for watching, great questions and concerns. The recertification process is not as intimidating as it seems. The rigor adds to credibility in my opinion. Nursing is a great profession, and the benefit of advancing in nursing is the Full practice authority in some states...but if tests scare you, I would figure practicing solo might scare you as well. PA school is challenging, but not impossible. The load is heavy for sure.
Hey there, I am 20 years old and working as a cna in a nursing home. I was planning on starting my prerequisites for nursing in January but sadly I feel the same. I want more. More of a challenge, more knowledge and surgery .. I know that it is going to take years for me to get there ( I don't even have an associate) but I don't want to be working as a cna much longer .. I'm confused. I don't know what to do
Thanks for watching! You for sure can do it. Nursing is a great major to have if you want to pursue that as undergrad, but your CNA experience would definitely count as patient contact hours. It's a matter of what you want to do. If you didn't get into PA school right away, you would be able to fall back on either for income. Never sell yourself short. God bless.
Check out my book on Amazon, it may be helpful as well!
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It's gonna take you 7 years to start getting paid as a PA. (4 years for Bachelor's and 2-3 year PA program)
Majoring in nursing is a great idea because after 4 years you can be a Registered Nurse (which has good pay) and try to get into PA School for which you would already have most of the prerequisites (if you perform well).
Then after 2-3 years you are a PA which is a great challenging and interesting job with potential for a 6 figures salary once you get some experience
Thanks for watching and commenting. Ideally, yes to make "PA money." Most people are making some money doing something else, gaining health care experience along the way since it is required. Majoring in nursing worked for me, it may not work for others, plus I had 5 years of working nursing experience before applying to PA school. 6 figures is pretty easy and attainable after being a PA for a short amount of time.
Do you think it would be a good idea to go to an undergraduate school while being a Licensed practical nurse and then apply to PA school after I get my bachelors degree (in something like health sciences) or should I go to a nursing school to get my BSN or ADN to become an RN and then apply to PA school?
Thank you for watching and that is kind of tough to answer. If you can live off your LPN degree and find a flexible job for you to complete your pre-reqs, do that. It really depends on your life situation at the time of application. You have to reassess at each step. it may be more cost-effective to get your ADN or BSN because RN jobs pay more than LPN.
Great clip!
Thank you.
Thank you so much for watching! I think I am going to update it!
Congrats on PA school..I agree with you regarding PA vs. NP...NP school used to be reserved for "seasoned" RNs mostly from the ICU/ER background, and the older NPs were top notch (at least my experiences with them as a medic in the Army). Now however, many schools have a direct entry program to MSN (and probably DNP now that many programs are migrating to a doctorate) for anyone possessing a Bachelors, and many NP programs can be done online. I personally wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of a NP who had obtained their NP via an online program (just my opinion), plus I like the idea of receiving my training alongside (in some schools) a medical student...Great and informative video...Thanks for posting :)
Thanks so much for watching! Yes, what you say is so true! Unfortunately, some parts of medicine is getting scary with the streamlining. I believe the quality is just not there. I'm baffled at the number of online programs as well!
I will be making application sometime early in 2018, and my sincerest hope is that I am not too old (I know that programs SAY they don't discriminate with regards to age, sex, religion, etc., but having worked in the high-tech arena for most of my adult life, that's bs lol) I only wish that I had taken the leap of faith and applied many years ago, as I truly loved what I did as a Medic in the Army, and deeply regret that I id not apply attend the Interservice Medical Academy, and obtain my PA in the early '80's on the Army's dime...Best of luck to you in your career, and thank you for posting such relevant, and inspirational videos :)
Timothy Anderson. If you can diagnose your headache, for example, by yourself and take Tylenol why wouldn’t a NP, online or not, with a masters care for your basic health care needs. By the way after online sessions then follow clinicals where a student NP shadows a NP or MD. Big deal? I don’t think so. We will refer you, as needed. Also, if all drugs are available OTC anyone can treat him/her-self. If your A1c is diabetic we start you on an oral med then have you come in 3 months to check also liver and advise dietary changes/weight loss. Big deal? Nope 👎.
How did you get through the math? I am terrible at it but I am so determine to understand what I’m doing . Any tips?
Thank you for watching and commenting. Math....oh, I definitely only took the minimal required and I saw tutor for things I did not understand. You have tools like TH-cam and other online things to help that I did not at the time. You want to do the best in your science classes though. If math isn't your thing, do enough to pass and get into your science class and rock it out.
Hello mom, great video I hope you save dinner for me!
thankyou for your video!
Thank you so much for watching!
If interested, check out my book on Amazon, thank you!
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Hmm..you like the medical model more than the nursing model and you feel PA program is more rigorous than NP. The thing is..is it really worth the extra time and money (as a BSN holding nurse) to go to PA school over NP program if at the end of the day youre basically doing the same exact job. You will become proficient at your job through real life work..not school..school provides you with the base of knowledge to BEGIN this journey. Also in going the PA route, you've restricted yourself in the amount of autonomy you could've had with NP. It is unlikely the MDs will allow PAs to independently open their own practices in the future but today there are several states that allow NPs to do so. Providers in general are life long learners..the best ones will continue to improve and expand their skills long after school. The fact you advanced your education period and wanted to challenge yourself shows you'll be a great provider no matter what..So regardless of what I think, I appreciate your decision.
You're right with the Full Practice Authoritiy part. I still never want to take another nursing theory class ever in life, lol. Medicine is forever evolving. I believe at some point, we will be granted FPA and we do not need permission slips from doctors, just great lobbying and clearing up what we do and have been doing for the past 50+ years. Medicine is collaborative in nature, so even the NP that opens their own practice has to shoot ideas with someone, they just aren't tied by the paperwork.
Sorry I must’ve missed the part where you said what your bachelors was. Did you get a BSN or get your bachelors in something different?
BSN:-)
I have a question, will nursing have all the prerequisites needed for PA school? or It will be easy because I did BSN and did a patient care experience
The prequisites depend on the program you are applying to. I suggest looking at what school you want to get into, seeing what they require and taking those classes as electives if not part of your nursing program.
I am undergrad doing a public health bachelors, I am not sure what to do, there are so many options, absn accelerated bachelors nursing, Elmn entry levels masters nursing, or bsn basic bachelors nursing, or just get emt experience and work experience and then applying to pa school, why would someone do msnnp or msnfnp masters nurse practitioner or masters family nurse practitioner instead of going to pa school right after their bsn in nursing? Don't physician assistant get paid more than nurse practitioner or family nurse practitioner?
Prayerfully, you sorted this dilemma out. I say shadow, ask a lot of questions, envision what you want your future life to look like
Thank you for this video
do you feel a person with crim3 charge that was dismissed be a pa
Honestly it is going to depend on the charge. All health fields dealing with people have a Caregiver background check that is performed. The questions are about abuse to patients, the elderly, children. I'm sure there may be some other things that may cause this to be a challenge in pursuit, but it's good to check with each state as far as their practices
Jackie Oraedu do you really believe that like would you learn and gain the knowledge for pa program if u could not complete it by chance
I hear you about the nursing theory BS, totally boring and uninteresting fluff! Not to mention good bye to all of the nursing baggage!
Whew! Nursing theory tried to take me out!
Ya! Different strokes for different folks...
Sad do you know you are an ASSITANT of someone. You NEVER understand what a nurse is ... this ia SAD. A Nurse Practitioner can have their own practice. Plus you can be a Psych Nurse, Nurse Anesthesis and have your own practice. You'll be SORRY to be a PA....I am PROUD TO BE A NURSE PRACTITIONER.
Shut up troll
Thank you for watching and commenting. Clearly, you took my video as a dig. If you love being a NP, great. I was a nurse and legally, I still am a nurse, and I am sure you have never been a PA, nor understand the path we take. This video is about my why.
Thanks for having my back!
Thanks for having my back! There are so many routes in medicine to take, people have to do what works for them and their goals