Family nurse practitioners currently have one of the most popular and fulfilling careers. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), a family nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse (RN) who provides preventative, primary, comprehensive family-focused healthcare services, managing both acute and chronic medical conditions to all ages and genders.
Primary care needs are rapidly expanding, and FNPs have been called on to help with the growing shortage of physicians. Becoming an FNP provides nurses with the opportunity to meet healthcare needs. The Southern Utah University (SUU) online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares graduates to fill this demand for primary care professionals and FNPs.
NP Education and Certification
The American Nurses Association (ANA) outlines the pathway to becoming an FNP. One must first become a registered nurse, obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and pass the National Certification Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for RNs. Finally, after receiving work experience as a nurse, the RN can then apply to graduate school, where they can choose the MSN or the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program track and choose the NP curriculum they wish to study.
Those aspiring to be a nurse practitioner can expect to take advanced courses in pathology, pharmacology and physical assessment. They will also gain clinical practice in their specific area of concentration. Upon completing graduate school and obtaining the advanced degree, NPs must take the credentialing exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or another accredited certification board.
Nurse practitioners must earn the required specialization training for their intended practice. After certification and for the duration of their career, FNPs must obtain continuing education credits to maintain their licensure. These requirements vary by state.
Types of Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners can choose to practice in many specialties. The ANA notes the following specialties:
- Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) make up nearly 70% of nurse practitioners. As mentioned above, they provide family-focused healthcare services to patients of all ages.
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNP) work with children and in various settings. They are in primary care and perform health exams, screenings, treat and diagnose non-acute conditions. There are PNPs with the title “PNP-AC” who provide acute and chronic care for children.
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNP) work with infants from birth to up to two years of age. Some of these infants and toddlers may have been born prematurely or with an illness, health condition or birth defect. The NNP is also tasked with educating parents and family on their infant’s condition.
- Adult–Gerontology (AGNPs) care for teenage and adult patients. AG-PCNPs work in primary care, while AGACNPs specialize in acute care. AGACNPs are also experienced in care related to aging in older adults.
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) specialize in mental healthcare, behavioral healthcare and mental disorders. There are some states in which PMHNPs have full authority to diagnose or prescribe mental health or behavioral health medication. They may also work closely with a psychiatrist.
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNP) specialize in women’s health and focus on delivering gynecologic, reproductive and sexual healthcare.
Responsibilities of the FNP
Indeed states that one major difference between family nurse practitioners and RNs is that FNPs can practice without a supervisor. In their daily work, FNPs provide services and perform tasks such as assessing patients, diagnosing illnesses, conducting physical exams, prescribing medications, monitoring and updating patient records, developing and adjusting patient treatment plans, and educating patients and their families on how to self-manage health conditions.
In many rural areas, the role of the FNP is closely related to that of a primary care physician. The above-mentioned responsibilities highlight the role FNPs play in healthcare, which reflects their advanced education and training.
FNP Career Outlook
There is strong demand for FNPs, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates a 38% growth rate for nurse practitioners through 2032. FNPs work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, home healthcare and private practices. The career outlook for FNPs is favorable for the present and the future.
In addition to career stability, FNPs can expect competitive salaries. Indeed reports an average U.S. salary of $115,105 for FNPs, also noting that FNPs may receive other benefits such as overtime, free or reduced medical care, health insurance and retirement. The growing demand for primary and preventative healthcare services, healthcare industry expansion, legislative support, job stability, flexible work environment and salary contribute to making the FNP a promising career choice.
Southern Utah University’s online MSN in FNP program ensures that graduates are well prepared to meet the challenges of providing high-quality patient care in different healthcare settings. Students will receive training in advanced clinical skills, prescribing practices, primary and preventative care. These program components combined prepare graduates to sit for national certification exams in Utah.
Learn more about SUU’s online MSN in FNP program.
