So you’ve heard a lot about nurse practitioners. This may have peaked your interest and got you thinking. But if you’re still not sure whether or not you should earn your degree in the field of nursing, let’s talk a little more about what nurse practitioners do.
Nurse Practitioners are qualified to handle a vast array of medical issues and problems and can diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries. Here is a basic list of the work they do:
- Taking the patient’s history, performing physical exams and ordering appropriate laboratory tests and procedures
- Diagnosing, treating and managing acute and chronic diseases
- Providing prescriptions and coordinating referrals
- Executing certain procedures, such as a bone marrow biopsy or lumbar puncture
- Teaming with physicians and other health professionals as needed
- Counseling and educating patients on self-care skills and treatment options
- Ordering, performing and interpreting diagnostic studies such as lab tests, x-rays and EKGs
- Prescribing physical therapy and other rehabilitation treatments
- Providing prenatal care and family planning services
- Providing well-child care, including screening and immunizations
- Providing health maintenance care for adults, including annual physicals
If you’re still interested in joining the number of qualified nurses that make life easier for the sick and injured, get started today.
{ 0 comments… add one now }