The Making of a Nurse Practitioner: Insights from Dr. Karen Bourgeois

In our recent podcast episode, we were privileged to host Dr. Karen Bourgeois, the esteemed director of the Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Manhattanville College. Dr. Bourgeois shared her journey in the nursing field, shedding light on the steps to becoming a nurse practitioner, the different nurse practitioner specialties, and the importance of advancing your nursing education.

Dr. Bourgeois' career spans from her first steps into nursing to her years spent imparting wisdom in nursing education. She emphasizes that the nursing journey goes beyond professional development - it's a deep dive into the heart and soul of nursing. She shares a touching story of how her nursing career not only changed her life but also the lives of her patients.

In the field of nursing, the role of nurse practitioners is pivotal. They promote healthy habits, teach patients, and advocate on their behalf. This role involves more than just working in a hospital setting or primary care; it requires a blend of medical knowledge and nursing values. As a nurse practitioner, one has the ability to diagnose and prescribe, but above all, they are educators.

Dr. Bourgeois advises that future nurses should not rush their career progression. It's essential to find a program that fits your needs and allows you to function as a working RN, partner, parent, or caregiver. The first year of nursing school is undoubtedly overwhelming, but it's crucial to manage self-care needs during this period. According to Dr. Bourgeois, getting a B or a B+ in nursing school is acceptable, as long as you are taking care of your mental and physical well-being.

She also discusses the differences between working in a hospital setting as a nurse practitioner versus primary care. In a hospital setting, roles can overlap, making it a challenging environment. In contrast, primary care offers more opportunities for one-on-one patient interaction and education. Therefore, it's essential to understand your career goals and find a program that aligns with those aspirations.

Finally, Dr. Bourgeois touches on the value of Family Nurse Practitioner certification. Pursuing this certification broadens your scope of practice, allowing you to cater to patients from "birth to earth." It's a career path that is both rewarding and challenging, requiring dedication and a deep understanding of patient care.

In conclusion, the journey to becoming a nurse practitioner is a rewarding one, filled with opportunities to make a difference in people's lives. With the right education and mindset, coupled with self-care and dedication, anyone can succeed in this noble profession. Listen to our podcast episode for more insightful discussions with Dr. Karen Bourgeois.