How much does a nurse practitioner make?

In the United States, pay can differ with experience, the kind of patients an NP specializes in, and whether they work in a clinic, hospital, or another setting. It also changes from place to place, so the same job may pay differently in different states.

Diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.

What's a typical day like?

They review charts, then see patients, ask about symptoms, examine them, and may order tests or prescribe medicine. They explain care plans, check results, and update records, often working with other health professionals.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor's degree in nursing, pass the NCLEX to become an RN, then complete a master's or doctoral NP program. Pass a national NP certification exam and obtain your state's NP license.

Graduate degree or long training (preparation level 5 of 5)

Good for people who like figuring things out and helping and teaching.

The first nurse practitioner program in the U.S. began at the University of Colorado in 1965.