A nurse practitioner (NP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed additional education and training to provide advanced nursing care. In the United States, nurse practitioners are licensed to diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests.

• Nurse practitioners are trained to provide a range of services, including primary care, acute care, and specialty care. They can work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, and nursing homes. Nurse practitioners can work independently or as part of a healthcare team, collaborating with physicians and other healthcare providers to deliver high-quality care to patients.
• To become a nurse practitioner in the United States, a registered nurse must first complete a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Many nurse practitioners specialize in a particular area of practice, such as family medicine, pediatrics, oncology, or psychiatry. After completing their education, nurse practitioners must pass a national certification exam and obtain a state license to practice.
• The role of nurse practitioners has become increasingly important in the United States healthcare system, particularly in areas where there is a shortage of primary care physicians. Nurse practitioners can provide high-quality care to patients in a cost-effective manner, and studies have shown that patients who receive care from nurse practitioners have similar outcomes to those who receive care from physicians.
• Nurse practitioners are also involved in healthcare policy and advocacy, working to improve access to healthcare and promote the nursing profession. Professional organizations for nurse practitioners in the United States include the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP). These organizations provide resources and support for nurse practitioners, including continuing education opportunities and networking opportunities with other healthcare providers.