Exciting Job Prospects for Advanced Nurse Practitioners
Advanced practice nurses are also known as nurse practitioners (NP) and are often considered a replacement for physicians in primary care environments. The level of education and training for nurse practitioners is much higher than registered nurses and so is autonomy they enjoy. There are many different paths nurse practitioners can take for their career and all provide a level of professional growth and personal satisfaction.
Advanced nurse practitioners are highly educated and sought after with credentials that begin with getting a UIndy post-master’s DNP program. With an advanced degree, nurses can then move up in their career and feel confident that they have the proper foundations to provide excellent quality care. Taking online courses ensures an individual can still work to support themselves while striving towards a bright future and a successful career.
Different career paths for nurse practitioners
Emergency Room
Emergency room nurse practitioners care for acutely ill individuals in a hospital setting. They are quick on their feet and can take control of a patient’s care in emergency situations. They are generally found in trauma centers, ambulatory care departments, urgent care facilities and hospital emergency rooms.
Primary Care
Primary care nurse practitioners (PCNPs) treat patients of all ages which often includes their families. NPs educate their patients on preventative medicine and help them with concerns. as well as educate them on proper habits for health and wellness. Primary care nurse practitioners often replace the need for physicians and assistants because they can diagnose illnesses, order tests, and prescribe medications for general ailments. They fill a void in the healthcare system that was created from a shortage of doctors and save the government and individuals money by focusing on preventative medicine. They are also familiar with the latest technologies and trends in health care.
Cardiac
A cardiac nurse practitioner treats patients with chronic heart disease. These professionals can diagnose patients and collaborate with other healthcare professionals about the treatment plans of cardiac patients. They also focus on cardiac health by educating patients on preventative measures and lifestyle changes for a healthier heart. Cardiac NPs work in specialized clinics, private practices, and hospital cardiac units.
Palliative Care
Palliative care NPs work with patients who are terminally ill and need extra assistance that they can’t perform on their own. These individuals work in hospices, patient’s homes, and hospitals. NPs usually with the elderly or patients with advanced diseases and treat them through the duration of their illness.
Surgical
Surgical nurse practitioners work with the surgical medical team and perform critical duties in the operation room. They have specialized training in OR procedures and are valued for their skill and knowledge.
Psychiatric-Mental Health
Nurse practitioners in the mental health area specialize in treating patients with disorders such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance abuse. They are caring and compassionate professionals who train extensively in how to treat people with mental health issues.
Acute Care
Acute care nurse practitioners (ACNPs) treat patients with imminent critical illnesses or injuries. They work in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and urgent-care departments.
Pediatric Acute Care
Pediatric acute care nurse practitioners are involved with treating adolescents, and young adults with chronic conditions. They work in emergency departments, hospitals, and sometimes in the patient’s home.
Family
Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are involved in treating all members of a family from birth to death and providing preventative treatments as well as educate on the best healthcare habits. They work in private practices, hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.
Pediatric
Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) treat young people from newborns to young adults. They treat individuals on common children’s problems and educate parents on proper care and preventative measures.
Advanced practice nurses or nurse practitioners are valued members of the healthcare community and are deferred to for their expert opinion, knowledge, and extensive training. These medical professionals have worked their way through advanced degrees and certification to get more responsibility, autonomy, and respect of their peers. The job prospects for NPs are vast and plentiful because they fill a need in a healthcare system where there is a critical shortage of professionals.
