The Role of a Nurse Practitioner in Improving Public Health

The healthcare sector globally has undergone significant transformations in recent years. One of the most significant changes is the increased demand for nurses to take on advanced roles to meet the healthcare needs of the growing population. Nursing has grown beyond its traditional role, and the nursing profession is experiencing a shift towards advanced practice nursing. Nurse practitioners are essential healthcare providers who play a significant role in the delivery of healthcare within the community. This essay will discuss the role of nurse practitioners in improving public health, the education and training required to become a nurse practitioner, and the challenges faced by nurse practitioners in their daily practice.

The Role of Nurse Practitioners in Improving Public Health

Nurse practitioners serve as essential healthcare providers in ensuring that people receive quality healthcare services across the lifespan within the community. They focus on health promotion, primary healthcare, and disease prevention while treating acute and chronic illnesses. Nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, order diagnostic tests, interpret results, and refer patients to specialist care as necessary (AANP, 2021). They collaborate with other healthcare professionals to give the best care to patients and families across diverse cultural s. Hence, nurse practitioners' role is crucial in ensuring that everyone can access quality healthcare services to maintain their well-being, improving public health overall.

Education and Training Required to Become a Nurse Practitioner

Becoming a nurse practitioner requires extensive education and training to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality healthcare services. Nurse practitioners must earn a graduate degree in nursing that leads to certification and state licensure to practice. They must hold a registered nurse license and have experience in healthcare before pursuing a graduate degree. Nurse practitioners undergo advanced clinical training to develop the skills and knowledge needed to provide comprehensive and holistic health care. The graduate program covers various disciplines, including pathophysiology, pharmacology, physical assessment, and understanding the social and cultural aspects of healthcare. Nurse practitioners must undergo continuous education and practice through continuing education courses designed to maintain their knowledge, enhance their skills, and stay updated on healthcare advancements.

Challenges Faced by Nurse Practitioners in Their Daily Practice

Although the nursing profession has grown tremendously, nurse practitioners face several challenges in their daily practice. One such challenge is the limited scope of practice, which differs from one state to another in the United States. Nurse practitioners' scope of practice determines their ability to practice independently, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests. The varying practice restriction laws across states limit or hinder the provision of quality healthcare services to patients. Another challenge nurse practitioners face is the lack of recognition and respect from other healthcare professionals, including physicians. This may lead to nurse practitioners' underutilization and undervaluing of their contributions, ultimately leading to suboptimal health outcomes for patients. Nurse practitioners also face challenges in administrative documentation and reimbursement processes in healthcare systems, which can be time-consuming and burdensome.

Conclusion

Nurse practitioners are essential healthcare providers in providing quality healthcare services within the community. Nurse practitioners' role includes promoting health, providing primary healthcare, and disease prevention while treating acute and chronic illnesses. Becoming a nurse practitioner requires extensive education and training to acquire the essential skills and knowledge necessary to provide such care. Although nurse practitioners face challenges in their daily practices, the nursing profession's growth has paved the way for the provision of quality healthcare services worldwide. Thus, nurse practitioners' role is critical in improving public health and promoting health equity.