WHAT ARE THE STEPS IN BECOMING A NEONATAL NURSE PRACTITIONER?

Steps to Becoming a Nurse Practitioner

• Answer:

  A nurse practitioner is an advanced practice nurse who performs some of the same functions as a physician, such as conducting physical examinations, diagnosing illnesses and in some states prescribing medications. The educational requirements for a nurse practitioner are extensive in comparison to a registered nurse. According to Payscale, the average salary of a nurse practitioner is from $70,383 to $91,114, as of December 2010. Bachelor's Degree A nurse practitioner must first be a registered nurse before moving into the role of an advanced practice nurse. Nurses can become registered nurses with an associate's degree in nursing or a bachelor's degree. Those seeking an advanced practice nurse position will need a master's degree in nursing, which requires a bachelor's degree first. A bachelor's degree program offers the training nurse courses in leadership, communication and critical thinking, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Registered Nurse License The next step on the path to becoming a nurse practitioner is obtaining a license to practice as a registered nurse (RN). Each state has different requirements to sit for the examination, but all RNs must complete an approved nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination. According to Degree Directory, nurses entering a master's degree in nursing program must be RNs for a specific number of years. Master's Degree According to Education Portal, nurse practitioners must complete a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in a specialized area such as family practice, pediatrics or geriatrics. Students usually determine an area of specialization before entering a master's degree program. Certification Some states require a nurse practitioner to be certified by a national board to practice. The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners offers certification for nurse practitioners who meet education requirements and pass an examination. According to Education Portal, the American Nurses Credentialing Center offers certification for nurse practitioners as well. Each state has different requirements for nurse practitioners, and some allow advanced practice nurses to write prescriptions to patients.