What is a Nurse Practitioner?
Are you looking to develop the skills of a doctor but still remain in the exciting field of nursing? If so, you might consider becoming a Nurse Practitioner!
A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse (RN) who has completed advanced education (minimum of a master’s degree) and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including chronic illnesses.
The job and involvement of a Nurse Practitioner varies state-by-state. A Nurse Practioner’s duties vary from obtaining medical histories and conducting physical examinations to providing well-child care, including screening and immunizations.
While some Nurse Practitioners will work closely with doctors, other Nurse Practitioners will work more independently. In fact, some Nurse Practitioners can setup independent medical practices and may even admit their own patients to hospitals!
The average Nurse Practitioner makes $75,000 – $150,000 a year on average. Remember, in most states, Nurse Practitioners are required to have a minimum of a master’s degree.
If you want to develop advanced medical skills and work more independently within the nursing field, becoming a Nurse Practitioner might just be the right step for you!
