Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide a wide range of healthcare services. They are trained to diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care. NPs often work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, and they can specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or family medicine.
To become a nurse practitioner, individuals must complete a master's or doctoral degree in nursing and obtain national certification. NPs play a crucial role in the healthcare system, often serving as primary care providers and helping to improve access to care for patients in their communities.