A Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse (RN) who has advanced education and clinical training in a health care specialty area. Nurse Practitioners work with people of all ages and their families, providing the information people need to make informed decisions about their health care.

Nurse Practitioners practice under the rules and regulations of the Nurse Practitioner Act of the state in which they work. In Arizona, NPs can operate an independent practice. They can bill Medicare. They may write prescriptions. NPs must have a system of physician collaboration and referral when necessary. As of January of 2001, newly trained NPs must hold a Master's degree in Nursing.

Nurse Practitioners may be found in all 50 states. A large number of research studies over the past 30 years have documented that Nurse Practitioners combine the art and science of nursing and medicine to provide a unique approach to high quality, cost-effective care with a high level of patient satisfaction.


What Services Do Nurse Practitioner Provide?

Nurse Practitioners serve as the regular health care provider for children and adults during health and illness. In order to provide complete health care, Nurse Practitioners:

• Obtain medical histories and perform physical examinations
• Diagnose and treat acute health problems such as infections and injuries
• Diagnose, treat, and monitor chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure
• Order, perform, and interpret diagnostic studies such as lab work and x-rays
• Prescribe medications and other treatments
• Provide well-child care and family planning services
• Provide prenatal care, including screening and immunizations
• Provide health maintenance care for adults, including annual physicals
• Promote positive health behaviors and self-care skills through education
• Collaborate with physicians and other health professionals as needed