What is a nurse practitioner?

A nurse practitioner is a primary healthcare practitioner who is a registered nurse with an advanced university degree, most commonly a Master of Science degree. NP's are licensed by the state in which they practice, are nationally certified in their specialty area, and must attend continuing education courses to maintain their license and certification.

More and more people are choosing NP's as their regular healthcare providers. NP's are a very important and growing part of the health care system. People are living longer while, at the same time, there is a growing shortage in primary care physicians. NP's are part of the solution to keeping people healthier.

How Do They Practice?

NP's practice independently and in collaboration with other healthcare providers. NP's in Indiana, have a collaborative Practice Agreement with a physician. In this setting the physician agrees to accept referrals and perform chart reviews in order for the NP to have prescriptive authority. NP's practice in private medical offices, hospitals and many other areas. They can also be found in clinical areas such as gerontology, emergent care, women's health and other specialty areas.

What Can NP's do?

NP's obtain health histories, perform physical examinations, diagnose and manage both acute and chronic illness, with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. NP's are able to order tests, prescribe medication, perform counseling and refer when necessary.