Nurse Practitioner Education

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Nurse practioners have a wide range of medical authority, and can provide primary healthcare to a patient. Some of their job functions include obtaining patient histories, performing medical exams, ordering diagnostic tests and procedures, ordering treatment care plans, perscribing medications, and performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Some of these job functions may require the signature of a supervising physician.

Nurse practioners work with a great deal of independence and authority, and advanced education is required. Obtaining employment as a nurse practitioner requires an MS in Nursing, as well as completion of a 12 to 18 point certification program in a specialty area, such as nurse clinician, nurse anesthesist, nurse midwife, or certified nurse practitioner. The certification requirements vary by state.