Wound Care Nurse Practitioner

[jrt4]

Hey all - I manage a small wound care center. Currently our staffing is all physician based and are looking at supplementing with a nurse practitioner or PA. Does anyone currently practice as an NP in a wound care specialty center? What credentials do you have and are you able to practice independently and do everything thing the MDs do in your clinic? I figure a NP would be more likely if you can find someone with the WON experience.

[michksmith14, MSN, RN]

Hi!

We have both an NP and PA in our clinic and they are independent and able to do everything our MDs do. We are in New Hampshire. Our NP's degree is in adult care rather than family practice so she can't see any potential pedi patients. She also has her AP-CWCN. You state's board of nursing might be a good resource too!

[jrt4]

Just for follow up. I checked with my state board. There are no specific rules in my state that differentiate between what an NP does vs. a physician. As long as they are trained and competent they may provide the same service. Billing for services I still need to look into.

[CalicoKitty, BSN, RN]

I know in some places, the NPs cannot write home care orders (IE orders for home visit dressing changes).

[michksmith14, MSN, RN]

I know in some places, the NPs cannot write home care orders (IE orders for home visit dressing changes).

This is somewhat true in NH. The NPs can write the home care orders but the MD needs to sign off on them. Same goes for the PA in our practice.

[Eagle2110, ADN, BSN, CNM]

We have both in our clinic. Everyone are able to perform the same tasks; however, our wound management center does require that all providers attend their wound care course.

Our PA and NP writes home health orders as well, our medical director just signs behind them.