HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway into nurse practitioner work usually starts with becoming a registered nurse and gaining relevant clinical experience. After that, a person may complete graduate-level education in nursing and nurse practitioner preparation. Training often includes advanced coursework and supervised practice. Because healthcare settings and patient needs can vary, ongoing learning is important. People in this role may also build skills in communication, assessment, and evidence-based care throughout their career.
THE WORK
What you may do
- Assess patients and gather health information
- Provide care for common and ongoing health concerns
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests
- Diagnose some conditions within scope of practice
- Prescribe or recommend treatments where permitted
- Educate patients about health, prevention, and self-care
- Refer patients to other healthcare professionals when needed
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A nurse practitioner’s day may include meeting patients, asking questions about symptoms, checking vital signs, and reviewing medical histories. They often work with other healthcare professionals and may decide whether tests or referrals are needed. Some time may be spent documenting care, explaining treatment plans, and answering patient questions. The work can be busy, and the exact schedule often depends on the setting and the needs of the people being seen.
SKILLS TO BUILD