Nurse practitioners (NP)

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses (RNs) with graduate degrees and advanced knowledge and skills.

What do nurse practitioners do?

They are trained to assess, diagnose, treat, order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, make referrals to specialists and manage overall care. Nurse practitioners often work closely with physicians and other health professions as part of a team. Some NPs work independently and manage their own clinics. More specifically, they:

  • Holistically identify issues affecting a patient's health and quality of life
  • Diagnose and treat common health conditions
  • Diagnose and treat minor injuries
  • Order and interpret laboratory tests
  • Prescribe drugs
  • Make referrals to specialists
  • Can act as a primary care provider

Where do nurse practitioners work?

Nurse practitioners work throughout ALA. Many have specialized skills and work in a specific department (e.g. operating room or oncology).

  • Family Care Clinics (FCC)
  • Primary Care Networks (PCN)
  • Community and/or specialty clinics
  • Home care
  • Hospitals or health care centres
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Emergency departments
  • Cancer care

What are the credentials for a Nurse Pracitioner?