2013
Pediatric nurse practitioner
9/16
Shontoria Harris
Mrs. Stricklands’ tiger block
Health science 2
2013
Pediatric nurse practitioner
9/16
Shontoria Harris
Mrs. Stricklands’ tiger block
What's an NP?
A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has additional education and training in a specialty area such as family practice or pediatrics. Pediatric and family practice NPs can provide regular health care for kids.
Nurse practitioners have a master's degree in nursing and board certification in their specialty. A pediatric NP has advanced education, skills, and training in caring for infants, children, and teens.
Licensed as nurse practitioners and registered nurses, NPs follow the rules and regulations of the Nurse Practice Act of the state where they work. If accredited through the national board exam, the NP will have an additional credential such as Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner or Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Task performed by a pediatric nurse practitioner
Diagnosing, treating, evaluating and managing acute and chronic illness and disease
obtaining medical histories and conducting physical examinations
Ordering, performing, and interpreting diagnostic
Prescribing physical therapy and other rehabilitation treatments
Prescribing pharmacologic treatments and therapies for acute and chronic illness
Providing prenatal care and family planning services
providing well-child care, including screening and immunizations
Providing primary and specialty care services, health-maintenance care for adults, including annual physicals
Providing care for patients in acute and critical care settings
Counseling and educating patients on health behaviors, self-care skills, and treatment options
Education requirements
An advanced degree in nursing is required for pursuing a career as a pediatric nurse practitioner. Before a student enrolls in a master's degree program, completion of