Nurse Practitioner Career Guide

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Overview

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive healthcare services to patients across the lifespan. Working in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals, NPs play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing illnesses, promoting health and providing patient-centered care. The essential job functions of a Nurse Practitioner include conducting patient assessments, ordering and interpreting

Education

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner requires obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and completing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The BSN program typically takes four years to complete, while the MSN or DNP program can range from two to four years, depending

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

To practice as a Nurse Practitioner, individuals must obtain national certification in their chosen NP specialty. Certification is provided by organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Additionally, state licensure is required to practice as an NP, with specific requirements varying by state.

Most NP programs require applicants to

Skills

To succeed as a staff or travel Nurse Practitioner, a combination of knowledge, hard and soft skills and abilities is essential. NPs must have a deep understanding of advanced nursing theory, pathophysiology, pharmacology and healthcare diagnostics. They should possess strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess and interpret complex patient information and make informed clinical decisions.

Effective communication

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Responsibilities

Nurse Practitioners have a range of responsibilities associated with their role. They conduct comprehensive patient assessments, including medical history, physical examinations and diagnostic evaluations. NPs diagnose and manage acute and chronic illnesses, prescribe medications, order and interpret laboratory tests and imaging studies and develop individualized treatment plans.

NPs provide patient education, counseling and health promotion strategies to empower patients in self-care

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Nurse Practitioner
$1,699-1,699/week

The average salary for a Nurse Practitioner is $1,699.00 per week.

Last updated on December 12, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner offers several benefits and drawbacks. Some advantages include a high level of autonomy and the ability to provide comprehensive care to patients. NPs have the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with patients and make a significant impact on their health outcomes. The profession offers job security, competitive salaries and a wide range of specialty areas to

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Nurse Practitioner Jobs


View job details for Level II Nurse Practitioner - General Surgery
Staff Position

Level II Nurse Practitioner - General Surgery

  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Modesto, CA
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$102-121/hour

View job details for Level II Nurse Practitioner - Family Practice
Staff Position

Level II Nurse Practitioner - Family Practice

  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Vallejo, CA
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$102-121/hour

View job details for Level II Nurse Practitioner - Gastroenterology
Staff Position

Level II Nurse Practitioner - Gastroenterology

  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Sacramento, CA
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$97-115/hour

Posted 7 days ago
View job details for Level II Nurse Practitioner - Dermatology
Staff Position

Level II Nurse Practitioner - Dermatology

  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Sacramento, CA
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$97-115/hour

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