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What should I look forward to when studying to be a practitioner?

I am Senior in high school and will be going to college next year to get be a Rn. I will be studying to be a practitioner.

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Doc’s Answer

Mariah nurse practitioners are considered advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and require more education and training than other nurses, such as registered nurses (RNs). Due to the various educational routes available to become an RN and the differences in length between individual programs and specializations, there is not a set amount of time that it takes to become a nurse practitioner. In general, if students complete a traditional, 4-year BSN program, followed by a traditional, 2-year MSN program, they are looking at about 6-years of formal education. Nurse practitioners are APRNs that can serve as primary and specialty care providers and can typically prescribe medications. These nurses will consult with doctors, but in general are able to work independently, order lab tests, operate medical equipment, and diagnose various health issues.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE IN NURSING – All nurse practitioners must first become an RN. Although a nursing diploma or associate's degree is a viable option for RNs, a bachelor's degree in nursing is the preferred educational path for an aspiring nurse practitioner. These are typically offered as Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees and some can be completed in 4-years. Students in these programs generally complete clinical experiences for hands-on learning. During their training, potential nurses take courses in anatomy, physiology and nursing concepts. Students may also take classes in pharmacology, psychology and microbiology. Some programs require aspiring nurses to take laboratory classes where they can become familiarized with lab instruments and procedures. Additionally, nursing programs include an internship or clinical practicum in which students work with medical professionals in a hospital or healthcare setting to advance their nursing skills and gain practical experience. After completing RN schooling, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), to become a licensed nurse. RNs will also need to meet any additional state requirements for the state in which they work and may choose to earn additional certifications in areas of interest, such as pediatrics.

MASTERS OF SCIENCE IN NURSING – Nurse practitioners must then go on to earn their 2-year master's degree. Again, there is no shortage of available nurse practitioner schools that offer master's degree and/or doctoral degree programs in nursing. Nurse practitioner programs are usually offered as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees in nurse practitioner and require extensive clinical training. Students will take advanced courses in pathophysiology, health assessment and advanced practice nursing, as well as enhance their knowledge and understanding of diagnosis and treatment. Many MSN programs include a nurse practitioner track with subject specializations, such as pediatric, adult or family care. Students usually complete clinical experiences in a healthcare facility. The most common kind of program is family nurse practitioner (FNP), but there are many different areas of specialty, such as pediatric nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, women's health nurse practitioner, or neonatal nurse practitioner.

Hope this is helpful Mariah
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Dallas’s Answer

As a CRNP (certified registered nurse practitioner), I would just like to add:
working for several years as an RN is beneficial to your success as an NP. As opposed to moving directly from undergrad into a graduate course.
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