What is a function of a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?

The role of a Nurse Practitioner (NP) encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, and providing primary care to patients is a core function of their practice. NPs are advanced practice registered nurses who have the education and training to assess, diagnose, interpret diagnostic tests, and manage both acute and chronic illnesses.

They focus on patient-centered care and are able to provide health education, preventive care, and health management. This includes routine check-ups, immunizations, and management of chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension. As primary care providers, NPs emphasize holistic care, taking into account physical, emotional, and social factors that can affect a patient’s health.

While NPs might be involved in some administrative duties or assessments in emergency rooms, their primary role and training are centered around delivering comprehensive primary care across various settings. This highlights their importance in the healthcare system, particularly in meeting the healthcare needs of underserved populations.