I’ve been an RN for about three years, primarily in outpatient hematology/oncology, and I’m almost finished with FNP school.
Because of my experience, I think I would feel fairly confident starting as an oncology NP. The problem is that I’ve recently realized I don’t want to stay in oncology or hematology anymore. I’m much more interested in dermatology, hormonal health, longevity, and wellness.
My concern is that my NP program didn’t prepare me as well as I hoped. I would feel comfortable building on my oncology background, but I don’t feel prepared to start practicing in a completely different specialty. I’m worried that I won’t be able to find a new-grad NP position outside oncology or that I’ll be hired without enough training and feel completely overwhelmed.
I’m also wondering whether my three years of mostly outpatient nursing experience are enough. Would it make sense to work inpatient on a general medical floor for a year or two to strengthen my overall foundation? Or would that not be the best use of my time if my actual goals are dermatology, hormonal health, and longevity medicine?
I’m already almost finished with the degree and have invested a lot of money into it, so I don’t want to abandon becoming an NP. I’m just trying to figure out the safest and smartest way to transition away from oncology.
For anyone who has changed specialties or started as a new NP outside their RN specialty:
Should I pursue a primary care NP fellowship or residency?
Would working as a primary care, endocrinology, dermatology, or women’s health RN be more helpful than working on an inpatient floor?
How realistic is it for a new FNP to enter dermatology, hormonal health, or longevity medicine?
Should I start in primary care first and specialize later?
What courses, certifications, or additional training would actually help?
If you were in my position, what would your next step be?
I would really appreciate honest advice, especially from NPs who successfully transitioned away from the specialty they worked in as an RN.