Nurse Practitioner:
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse with an advanced university education and provides clients with individualized, high-quality health care. They are registered nurses in the extended class who have met additional education, experience, and exam requirements set by the College. Nurse practitioners have the authority to diagnose, order, and interpret diagnostic tests. They are also authorized to prescribe medications and other treatments. NPs combine their clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions, emphasizing disease prevention and health management. They bring a comprehensive perspective and personal touch to healthcare.
Nurse Practitioners in Ontario offer a wide range of healthcare services to individuals, families, and communities across different settings, including hospitals and communities. They collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals such as social workers, midwives, and pharmacists to ensure your and your family’s well-being.
Nurse practitioners (NPs) have a wide range of skills and responsibilities. They use evidence-based practices to assess, diagnose, treat, and monitor various health conditions. NPs also consult and collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to meet the client’s needs. Chronic disease management, health promotion, and illness prevention are the core aspects of NP practice.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of what NPs are authorized to do:
- Complete a comprehensive health history and assessment
- Formulate and communicate a diagnosis, taking a differential diagnosis into consideration.
- Prescribe medications
- Order and interpret all laboratory tests
- Order many diagnostic imaging tests