WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER & Certified Family Nurse Pra

Published

I am confused....

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER AND Certified Family Nurse Practitioner?

Thanks

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I am confused....

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER AND Certified Family Nurse Practitioner?

Thanks

One is an FNP who has become certified, usually by the ANCC or what's the other one...?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

ANCC or AANP

Up Vote Up Vote ×

So, which is which?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
So, which is which?

You're really have trouble with this simple concept aren't you. When you become a nurse practitioner you go take a certifying exam, either ANCC or AANP. Then you are certified. Your question, "which is which" makes no sense. They are 2 different certifying agencies...look them up. Once you take one of these exams and get licensed in a particular state, you are legal to practice. I also have a DEA number, controlled substances number and other required numbers, but I'm hoping you don't have a question about those.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Oh I see. Thanks. :) I'm confused because I didn't know NPs can choose where to take their exams. I am currently an RN student and thinking of becoming an FNP, and I heard different things of others.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Nurse Practitioner.
You're really have trouble with this simple concept aren't you. When you become a nurse practitioner you go take a certifying exam, either ANCC or AANP. Then you are certified. Your question, "which is which" makes no sense. They are 2 different certifying agencies...look them up. Once you take one of these exams and get licensed in a particular state, you are legal to practice. I also have a DEA number, controlled substances number and other required numbers, but I'm hoping you don't have a question about those.

Wow that was kind of harsh zenman.

OP, maybe this will help you out a little bit. Depending on which exam is taken by that specific certifying body will determine the FNP's initials. A FNP who is certified by the ANCC is called FNP-BC or Family Nurse Practitioner "Board Certified". NPs who take their exam through AANP will have the initials NP-C. Both are certified and recognized in all states, it's just a small difference in the way they sign their names. Also the AANP only certifies FNP, Adult NPs and Gerontological NPs. ANCC is a subsidiary of ANA, and they offer ceritification for multiple APN specialties as well as certifications for RNs. Hope this helps and good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you so much for your well explanation. This clears everything in my head. Thanks again :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Wow that was kind of harsh zenman.

That's because I'm old and get cranky when someone can't tell the difference between these two:

1. Family Nurse Practitioner

2. Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Hint: One is certified and one is not.

My attitude started years ago when a pre-nursing student sat across from me and asked, "Now, what is it nurses do?" Or maybe it was that pre-nursing student who showed up with an SAT of 9.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Intresting

Zenmen must be one of those old "eat their young" types. Didn't know it happens online too :D

It's okay, as a young new nurse, there is lots to learn and lots to navigate, I have no doubt you'll make the best decision for you and become a great practicioner

Cheers

Visuals~

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in medical surgical.

Zenman must be in a bad mood. I enjoy his posts.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Zenman must be in a bad mood. I enjoy his posts.

Lol! Thanks, it must work because everywhere I go people want me to stay! Actually, I love students of all types and have taught nursing, Zen Shiatsu, and Hapkido. Actually quit one nursing school because of the way they treated students.

Just be careful what kind of questions you ask!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion