A nurse practitioner or NP is an advanced practice nurse that can diagnose and treat patients like that of a physician. One difference between a nurse practitioner and a physician is that the former focuses on prevention, wellness, and patient education. In some states, NPs can practice their profession independently. However, other states require that they work in a practice with physicians. Since NPs have more clinical independence and authority over many other types of nurses, LPNs often pursue this nursing career path.
Nurse Practitioner Job Description
NPs offer a wide range of healthcare services, plus they offer their services at a lower rate than physicians. Aside from diagnosing patients and providing prescriptions, NPs also treat and manage infections, injuries, and illnesses. They gather information about the patients history and health condition as well. In addition, NPs conduct physical exams, prescribe rehabilitation treatments, perform and interpret laboratory procedures and tests, and they provide well care. It is also a part of an NPs job to counsel and educate patients on health topics. Moreover, NPs have the ability to provide prenatal care and services related to family planning.
Acquiring A BSN And Passing The NCLEX-RN
The first step in becoming a nurse practitioner is done by earning a bachelors degree in nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It usually takes four to five years to finish. The first half of the program is spent on general education courses while the second half focuses on nursing practice. In some LPN-to-BSN programs, LPNs can earn their degree in only two years. Some LPNs choose to acquire an associates degree instead of a bachelors degree because it only takes two years to complete. After earning their associates, they can participate in programs that will allow them to earn both their bachelors and their masters degree in nursing in a single shot.
Becoming A Registered Nurse
LPNs that complete the bachelors degree program can then take the licensure exam (National Council Licensure Exam-RN). They can immediately start practicing as a registered nurse if they pass the exam.
Acquiring A MSN
After becoming a registered nurse, candidates will have to continue their education if they want to earn a masters degree in nursing or Master of Science in Nursing. This is the minimum requirement needed to become an NP. Most MSN schools only accept candidates that earned their BSN or ADN degree from a program that was accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission.
Acquiring Board Certification
Registered nurses can only become an NP after they acquire national board certification. They can acquire the certification from professional nursing boards such as the American Nurses Association and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. But before that, they will need to be licensed by their state first.
Doctorate Degree
If they so choose, a nurse practitioner can opt to advance their education and earn a doctorate degree in nursing. They can either earn a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Nursing. A Doctor of Philosophy course trains students for research and teaching positions, while a Doctor of Nursing course centers on clinical aspects of nursing. Candidates can also earn this degree before they apply for their national board certification.
Michelle works as a nurse in New Jersey and has been in the health care industry for more than 20 years.
