A Day in the Life of A Nurse Practitioner
Dec 5, 2014 | 12:00 pm
Have you ever thought about advancing in the nursing profession beyond the standard and what is expected of you? You don’t have to train to be a doctor just to enjoy a certain level of authority and independence in the nursing profession. You can pursue the position of nurse practitioner. An NP position is a job for a nurse that wants greater autonomy and privileges within a medical facility. While these nurses have nurse training, they also provide other specialty services, similar to those of a doctor. They can order and interpret certain diagnostic tests, treat specific chronic conditions and infections, prescribe medications, manage patient care, and educate patients on lifestyle and prevention.
Much like doctors, nurse practitioners can also specialize in specific areas, such as adult health, gerontology, family health, neonatal care, pediatrics, oncology and women’s health. What is important to note about the profession is that it’s a job with multiple roles, unlike the traditional RN, which has a list of specific duties that are expected. You do have the capacity to grow as an NP.
A Daily Glimpse Into the Life of a Nurse Practitioner
An interview with David A. Boley II, MS, ANP-BC, reveals the possibilities of this profession, personally and professionally. He stated that while the duties are different, “I face the same challenges as other people on a day-to-day basis. I think that the most persistent challenge is keeping up with and maintaining my knowledge base… I practice in a clinic, but I also have an active research career and am a Certified Nurse Educator.”
He cites the ability of the NP to practice independently as a major advantage of the profession, since “without full autonomy (patient care) is stifled.” Nevertheless, he also hints that not all states in the U.S. grant full independence to Nurse Practitioners, and that it remains an issue within the industry.
As far as skill sets, he suggests the “ability to coordinate care across multiple organizations” is what has helped him, since “Patients have the right and should be encouraged to visit or be seen by any provider they choose.”
Advancing in the Industry You Love
As you can tell from David’s resume (which includes a Master of Science Degree), pursuing higher education is a must if you hope to qualify for advancement. Nurse Practitioner is a higher position, one of authority and responsibility beyond R.N. and other positions. However, you must earn this title through hard work and textbook knowledge, comparable although not the same as that of a doctor.
Remember that nurses are patient advocates; thus, you would balance your expertise in medical knowledge with helping doctors, and helping patients get the medical treatment they want. Although you will have special rights as an NP, this is still a team effort and you will rely on your co-workers and superiors every step of the way.
Why not inquire into the school of your choice to see what is expected of you in this rewarding profession?