Career trends of master's prepared family nurse practitioners

The purpose of this study was to examine the career trends of family nurse practitioner (FNP) graduates of one master's program. A questionnaire was mailed to all FNPs (N = 113) who graduated 1-11 years earlier; there was a response rate of 83%. The survey revealed that for both first and present jobs the majority were providing direct patient care as a primary care provider or practicing in an indirect role. The study findings indicate that for these graduates there is a long term commitment (demonstrated through continued employment) as well as opportunity to practice in the nurse practitioner role in a direct or indirect capacity.