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A nurse practitioner (NP) is one of four categories of advanced practice nurse. These nurses have received masters level detailed training beyond that required for RN licensure, and in a specific area of focus. Like clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), nurse practitioners may practice independently, or they may work in hospitals, long-term care facilities or for various health care agencies. However, while CNSs may function primarily as administrators, researchers, policy-makers, educators or consultants, most NPs function primarily as clinicians.  Nurse practitioners may diagnose and treat a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses and injuries, interpret lab results, counsel patients, develop treatment plans, as well as prescribe medication. If you think being a nurse practitioner may be the right fit for you, or if you just want to research the different specialties, read the nurse practitioner articles outlined below to understand why the nurse practitioner salary isn't the only reason to attend nurse practitioner school. Nurse Practitioner Salary and Career Overview Nurse practitioner (NP) careers are quite versatile with master's-level education and clinical training in specific areas. NPs can work with children in pediatric nursing, patients recovering from severe illnesses in acute care nursing, people suffering mental distress or illness in psychiatric nursing, and that's just the beginning. Get a detailed nurse practitioner career overview and career outlook, and learn why the nurse practitioner salary is one of the best in nursing, depending on your specialty. Even if the nurse practitioner salary hasn't persuaded you, you can decide whether a nurse practitioner (NP) career may be a good fit for you and your professional endeavors. Nurse Practitioner School Overview The nursing shortage has created a demand for qualified nursing professionals—especially those with master's degree training. Nurse practitioners have started to perform many of the same duties as physicians, offering individualized patient care. Learn why there is a rise in nurse practitioner career opportunities and why nurse practitioner school enrollments are experiencing an influx of students. Nurse Practitioner Programs and Opportunities Nurse practitioner programs and education provide the solid background NPs need to have a successful practice. Learn about nurse practitioner program prerequisites, the average length of study for NP programs, average school tuition and program opportunities. Explore nurse practitioner programs and specialties to find the right one for you! Nurse Practitioner Training Courses Gain insight into nurse practitioner training, both on-campus and online. Discover which specialized nursing and health care industry topics you can expect in your course work. Read a typical course curriculum and get additional nurse practitioner training information to choose the right education path for you. Become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner There are many opportunities for today's pediatric nurse practitioners. Get a pediatric nurse practitioner career overview and learn how the education is different from other nurse practitioner careers. Learn about pediatric nurse practitioner job perks and whether the career might be a good fit for you. Become a Family Nurse Practitioner Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are becoming more popular as they have become qualified enough to perform many of the same duties as physicians. Get a family nurse practitioner (FNP) career overview, learn about the different work settings available, and discover why today is a better time than ever before to invest in a family nurse practitioner education. Nurse Practitioner Specialties Like CNSs, NPs work within a defined area of specialization, many of which are listed below: Return to the Nursing School Education Resource Center. |
