NP's are okay to see if you have a cold, BUT...

[Jo Dirt]

I want to become a nurse practitioner. At least, I'm pretty sure I do. I can't say with 100% certainty but it is definitely something I am interested in. I think I would like having my own clinic where I am the one who tells who to do what and when (though I'm not a control freak by any means).

Anyway, I just wonder what the scope of practice is for NP's in a nutshell. I know I can check the state board of nursing but without getting lost in a long spiel a long spiel can anyone sum it up for me here?

I assume, even though an NP can be a PCP, that an NP mostly treats colds, minor infections, gives physicals to truckers...but a NP certainly is not a doctor (even though the name on prescription bottles usually reads "Dr. so and so".)

Anyway, thanks for any advice. And don't anybody bite my head off because I want the Reader's Digest version instead of a book.

[mvanz9999, RN]

It would be nice if we could determine the quality of the healthcare we're getting just by looking at the credentials after the name but it's just not possible from my experience. It's better just to look at the providers name and then ask around.

You sound like idealistic premed student. Don't worry, you'll learn.

Indeed. The absolute hands down worst two doctors I ever had were both from Harvard Medical school. What I want in a doctor is someone who will LISTEN to my concerns, and not make judgements based on their training or assumptions about my apparent age or general health.

[gth]

After having so much trouble with my legs. A np is the only person who was able to realize my polio was comming back. She takes the extra time with patients. Being male but it does not bother me at all.

[General E. Speaking, RN, RN]

I always book my gyn appts with the NP. As a matter of fact, I followed her to her new office... absolutely love her! Would like to see a NP in family practice but have yet to find one in the area.