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HomeTopics...Nursing CertificationNurse Practitioner
Becoming a Nurse PractitionerIn the growing field of health care, many people have chosen to further their careers through continued education. In particular, registered nurses, who have associate or bachelor's degrees, often pursue the necessary education to move to the next level and become a nurse practitioner. Whether or not you already work in the health care industry, you may be asking yourself, "What is a nurse practitioner?"
Nurse practitioners, or NPs, are registered nurses who have achieved more advance education, usually at least a master's degree. While they still administer care, nurse practitioners also have further training in condition diagnosis and treatment.
Nurse Practitioners and PhysiciansThe position of nurse practitioner was created in the 1960s after a report predicted a shortage of physicians. The care that a nurse practitioner provides is highly individualized, much like that of a physician, however, it is a more cost-effective way to provide that care than employing a physician.
The care that a nurse practitioner provides is almost always covered by health insurance. A relatively healthy patient may see a nurse practitioner in lieu of a physician for all his medical needs, check-ups and prescriptions.
Looking for a school that focuses on this subject?
Here is a list of institutions and the number of programs they offer.
Where Nurse Practitioners WorkNurse practitioners provide many of the same services as physicians, such as monitoring illnesses, performing diagnostic research and prescribing medication to patients.
While the most common place to find a nurse practitioner is in the hospital, many work for:
In addition, some nurse practitioners decide to go into the field of health administration or hospital management. A nurse practitioner's practical skills in the field allow him to understand how to help an organization better serve its patients.
Different Types of Nurse PractitionersBecause nurse practitioners are required to complete further education, many choose to specialize in a specific field. This specialization determines what type of nurse practitioner the student will become.
Women's health is one field of specialization. In this field, coursework focuses on obstetrics (health for expecting mothers and unborn babies) and gynecology (health of the female reproductive system). Nurse practitioners who specialize in women's health can:
Nurse practitioners who have an interest in children’s health often focus on pediatrics. Pediatric nurse practitioners may supervise a child's vaccination schedule, common childhood conditions and overall child development.
Nurse practitioners can also specialize their studies and roles, becoming a(n):
Generally speaking, each of these specialties requires specific training and certification. State requirements may vary. Local educational institutions and colleges can advise what program may fit your individual needs. Do you have a program in mind?
Research different schools that offer any of the below programs with the links below. Bachelor's Programs
Master's Programs
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