A neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in the care of newborn infants, particularly those who are premature, critically ill, or have other health complications. Here is some information on neonatal nurse practitioners:

• Education: To become a neonatal nurse practitioner, individuals must first become registered nurses (RNs) by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). They must then earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a specialization in neonatal nursing. Some programs may also require previous experience in neonatal nursing.
• Role: Neonatal nurse practitioners work in a variety of settings, including neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They work alongside neonatologists, pediatricians, and other healthcare providers to assess, diagnose, and manage the care of premature and critically ill newborns.
• Responsibilities: Neonatal nurse practitioners perform a range of tasks, including conducting physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, developing and implementing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and providing education and support to families.
• Specialization: Neonatal nurse practitioners may choose to specialize in a specific area of neonatal care, such as high-risk delivery, transport, or follow-up care for premature infants. They may also choose to work in a specific type of NICU, such as a level II or level III NICU.
• Certification: Neonatal nurse practitioners must be certified by a recognized certification board, such as the National Certification Corporation (NCC) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Certification typically requires passing an exam and meeting continuing education requirements.
• Job Outlook and Salary: The job outlook for neonatal nurse practitioners is positive, with demand expected to increase due to advances in medical technology and an aging population. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners, including neonatal nurse practitioners, was $117,670 as of May 2020.

In summary, neonatal nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in the care of newborn infants, particularly those who are premature, critically ill, or have other health complications. They work in a variety of settings and perform a range of responsibilities, and must be certified by a recognized certification board. The job outlook for neonatal nurse practitioners is positive, and the median annual salary is competitive with other nursing specialties.