![So You Want to Be a NURSE PRACTITIONER [Ep. 25]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XpgRBz8mJvs/hqdefault.jpg)
A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse who has completed advanced academic and clinical education beyond that of a registered nurse. NPs are authorized to diagnose and treat medical conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and prescribe medications. In most states, they practice independently, without the need for physician supervision. Becoming an NP requires both education and certification, which can be a long and demanding process. But, the rewards are significant for those who are committed to the field, including higher salaries, more autonomy, and the opportunity to provide primary care to patients.
Nurse Practitioner Education Requirements
The first step in becoming an NP is to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This typically takes four years to complete and provides the foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for registered nursing practice. After obtaining a BSN, one must then become a registered nurse by passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Once a registered nurse, one must then obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. These programs are designed to provide advanced training in primary care, advanced assessment and diagnosis, pharmacology, and patient management. MSN programs typically take two years to complete, while DNP programs can take three or more years.
Nurse Practitioner Certification Requirements
After completing the required education, one must then become certified by a national certifying body, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). This involves passing a certification exam that tests one’s knowledge and competency in their chosen specialty area, such as adult-gerontology, family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, or psychiatry/mental health.
NP certification is not a one-time event but must be maintained through continuing education and re-certification every few years. This helps ensure that NPs remain knowledgeable about current standards of care and best practices in their field.
Nurse Practitioner State Licensing Requirements
In addition to national certification, NPs must also be licensed to practice in the state where they work. This involves passing another exam, the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Requirements for licensing vary by state, but most states require that NPs have a valid registered nursing license and a master’s degree in nursing.
Nurse Practitioner Continuing Education Requirements
Once licensed and certified, NPs must participate in ongoing continuing education to maintain their license and certification. This can involve attending conferences, taking courses, and participating in other educational activities that help keep NPs up-to-date with the latest developments in their field.
Summary of Steps to Become an NP
The following table summarizes the steps required to become an NP:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Obtain a BSN | Complete a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program |
| Become a Registered Nurse | Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) |
| Obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | Complete a two-year MSN program or a three-plus year DNP program |
| Become Certified | Pass a certification exam from a national certifying body such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) |
| Obtain State Licensing | Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Pract |
How Much Does a Nurse Practitioner Make?
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty healthcare services to patients. As a highly skilled and in-demand healthcare professional, NPs typically earn higher salaries than registered nurses (RNs). The amount a nurse practitioner makes depends on several factors, including their area of specialty, years of experience, location, and type of employer.
Nurse Practitioner Factors Affecting NP Salaries
- Area of Specialty: NPs can specialize in a variety of areas, including pediatrics, psychiatry, and emergency care. The salaries of NPs vary depending on their area of specialty, with some specialties commanding higher salaries than others. For example, NPs specializing in emergency care typically earn higher salaries than those specializing in primary care.
- Years of Experience: Like with most healthcare professionals, the amount a nurse practitioner makes increases with years of experience. As NPs gain experience and expertise, they are often able to command higher salaries.
- Location: The cost of living and demand for healthcare services in a specific area can also impact an NP’s salary. NPs who work in metropolitan areas or in states with high demand for healthcare services typically earn higher salaries than those who work in rural areas or in states with lower demand.
- Type of Employer: The type of employer can also impact an NP’s salary. NPs who work in private practices typically earn higher salaries than those who work in hospital settings. NPs who work for government agencies, such as the Veterans Affairs (VA) system, typically earn lower salaries than those who work in the private sector.
Nurse Practitioner Salaries by Region
The salaries of NPs vary by region, with some states paying higher salaries than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the states with the highest mean annual wage for NPs as of May 2021 are:
- California: $139,420
- Oregon: $127,820
- Massachusetts: $126,520
- Hawaii: $125,240
- Alaska: $122,120
Nurse Practitioner Salaries by Specialty
The salaries of NPs also vary by specialty, with some specialties commanding higher salaries than others. According to the BLS, the specialties with the highest mean annual wage for NPs as of May 2021 are:
- Anesthesiology: $157,040
- Nurse Anesthetists: $157,040
- Pediatrics: $114,030
- Psychiatry: $114,560
- Emergency Medicine: $114,560
How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner?
The time it takes to become a nurse practitioner can vary depending on your educational background and experience. On average, it takes about 7-8 years to become a nurse practitioner, including 4 years for a BSN degree, 2-3 years for an MSN degree, and 2 years of clinical experience as a registered nurse.
Is a nurse practitioner a doctor?
No, a nurse practitioner is not a doctor. A nurse practitioner is a type of advanced practice registered nurse who has advanced education and training in a specific area of healthcare. While nurse practitioners can perform many of the same duties as a doctor, they are not licensed to practice medicine in the same way as a doctor.
What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a physician assistant?
Nurse practitioners and physician assistants are both advanced practice healthcare providers, but there are some differences between the two. Physician assistants are trained to provide medical care under the supervision of a physician, while nurse practitioners are trained to provide care independently. Nurse practitioners also typically have a broader scope of practice and can provide a wider range of healthcare services.
Conclusion
Nurse Practitioners are highly skilled and in-demand healthcare professionals who earn higher salaries than registered nurses. The amount a nurse practitioner makes depends on several factors, including their area of specialty, years of experience, location, and type of employer. On average, NPs can expect to earn a mean annual wage of $115,800, according to the BLS. With the continued growth in the healthcare industry and the demand for NPs, it is a career that offers both job security and a competitive salary.