Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialist are both titles of nurses that have gone the “extra mile” with training. They are advanced Registered Nurses who have taken special courses and training to advance their abilities. They are commonly found working closely with physicians and are able to perform a wider array of primary care than RN’s. In addition, they can have a specialty focus just like many doctors (such as psychiatry, pediatrics, etc).
What do Nurse Practitioners do? The job duties of Nurse Practitioners are there to help the doctor perform a diagnosis or medical examination and include : Completing full medical exams, prescribing some medications, providing some diagnosis and treatment plans, counseling patients and families, and treating common medical problems, illnesses, and injuries.
How much do Nurse Practitioners make? They make a nice salary that’s for sure. While starting salary might only bring you around $65,000, this is a relatively low figure. Many are making in excess of $100,000 a year. Keep in mind, most Nurse Practitioners were once Registered Nurses, so they have not only a promotion under their belt, but experience. Both of which equate to a higher salary.
How to become a Nurse Practitioner? Well your first step is to become a Registered Nurse (2-3 year program to become one). Then you will be able to take the master’s level program that is required to become a Nurse Practitioner. After finishing the program, there is a certification that you must complete. Pretty much all there is to it (easier said then done right?), except that I think its only fair to mention that nursing programs are usually very much impacted.
I think this almost goes without saying, nursing is a great career especially if you are looking for solid pay and stable future. That’s why its such a popular choice (even still they are in huge shortage). With this said, it’s helpful to approach this career with genuine compassion though. It will not be a career that you will enjoy if helping others and looking after patients isn’t something you naturally want to do. Every job has it’s perks and also their downfalls and nurses are not exempt.
Since that is off my chest, let me provide you with more information on Nurse Practitioners just in case this is something you want to pursue! American Academy of Nurse Practitioners is the group and you can check them for more info!