Ann A. Lewis, FNP-C Owner and FNP Provider Sampson Medical Services, P.A, Surf City, NC

What are your "Pearls of Wisdom?"

• Do not go directly into a solo practice after NP school. Take about 10 years to get really good experience under your belt
  
  
• Know your clientele and when to refer.
  
  
• Choose your staff wisely. If you plan a partnership, know your proposed partner as well as you possibly can. What are their communications and interpersonal habits related to yours?
  
  
• Be true to yourself and practice the Golden Rule.
  
  
• Use your state nurse's association. Pay your dues even if you are inactive because your dues will support a powerful lobby. Without appropriate financial support, nursing complaints, requests will fall on deaf ears in the legislature. Get politically active!