Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive healthcare to patients of all ages and all stages of life and their expertise and role in family medicine are essential to ensuring that communities have access to quality healthcare.
With nurse practitioner roles projected to grow 40% over the next decade, there has never been a better time to enter this area of medicine. The demand for FNPs is currently on the rise due to the current nursing shortage in the United States. According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), the country is facing a critical shortage of nursing staff, prompting them to call on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and declare the shortage a national crisis.
If you would like to advance your career in nursing, it is now possible to complete your calling and achieve your full nurse potential by studying for a post masters FNP certification online. This article will explore some of the benefits of becoming a FNP.
Greater Autonomy
One of the main benefits of being an FNP is the autonomy that comes with full practice authority allowing these nurses to offer comprehensive healthcare to their patients without the need for oversight.
FNPs are trained to offer a range of services to patients, ranging from preventive care to managing chronic conditions and illnesses, and may also prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and develop treatment plans.
Greater autonomy allows FNPs to take a holistic approach to patient care, which is particularly important for those in rural or underserved areas where access to healthcare is limited. They can also work in diverse settings, such as hospitals and clinics, educational institutions, and community centers. FNPs also have the option of owning their own practice offering them the opportunity to choose the environment that best fits their interests and skills.
Greater Responsibility
FNPs have the capacity to delegate tasks and manage teams, expanding their role to include administrative and management responsibilities. This field of nursing also provides opportunities for leadership in areas such as policy, education, community outreach, research, mentoring, and administration.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the FNP role is the opportunity to educate and empower local communities on preventive care and healthier lifestyles, helping patients avoid health problems and maintain their health.
Specialization
Like physicians, FNPs can choose to specialize in a particular field, gaining both career fulfillment and a deeper knowledge in their chosen area of expertise. This can include areas such as:
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Women's health
- Mental health
- Emergency medicine
- Rural health
- Hospice and palliative care
By specializing in a particular area, FNPs are able to enhance their skills and provide the best possible outcomes for their patients.
Nurse Advocates
FNPs not only advocate for their patients, but also serve as influential advocates in their communities, partnering with political leaders and policymakers on health-related issues. By leveraging their knowledge and expertise, FNPs can become respected professionals within the medical field, playing a vital role in promoting the health and welfare of their communities.
Being an FNP offers a range of benefits, from the ability to provide quality care to patients, to the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on your community.
