What Is a Nurse Practitioner?

A nurse practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who is trained to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and providing health education and counseling. NPs have advanced education and clinical training, allowing them to practice independently or collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to manage patients' health needs across the lifespan.

What Does a Nurse Practitioner Do?

Nurse Practitioners work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, primary care practices, specialty practices, community health centers, and outpatient facilities. They provide care to patients of all ages, from infants to older adults, and often specialize in areas such as family health, pediatrics, women's health, adult-gerontology, psychiatry, or acute care.

NPs focus on delivering holistic, patient-centered care, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education. They often serve as primary care providers, managing patients' ongoing health needs, coordinating care across healthcare settings, and addressing the physical, emotional, and social aspects of health and wellness.

In addition to clinical practice, many NPs engage in leadership roles, research, education, and advocacy to advance the nursing profession and improve healthcare delivery. They are valuable members of the healthcare team, contributing to improved access to care, enhanced patient outcomes, and greater patient satisfaction.

Average Nurse Practitioner Salary

In 2022, Nurse Practitioners earned a median salary of $121,610. The top 25% of earners made $135,470, while the bottom 25% made $103,250.