What is A Nurse Practitioner?

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse who has received specialized training at the graduate level in diagnosing and treating illnesses and providing health care maintenance.  Many are family nurse practitioners, and some specialize in other areas including:

• Acute Care
• Adult Health
• Geriatrics
• Pediatrics
• Psychiatry
• College Health
• Women's/Obstetrical-Gynecological Health

Nurse Practitioners work in conjunction with a collaborating physician and are qualified to:

• Obtain health histories and perform physical exams (including gynecological exams)
• Diagnose and treat common illnesses and injuries
• Recognize complicated medical conditions that require consultation with a physician
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests such as blood tests and x-rays
• Prescribe medication
• Give vaccinations

Last Modified 12/22/2005