Nurse Practitioner Week is November 10–16, 2024. This annual observance honors nurse practitioners (NPs) for their steadfast dedication to patient care and empowerment. It is a time to raise public awareness of the many ways that nurse practitioners enhance patient experiences and strengthen healthcare systems. Nurse Practitioner Week also allows organizations to advocate for policy changes that would expand NPs' scope of practice, making it easier for them to treat patients in underserved areas. As organizations celebrate Nurse Practitioner Week, they acknowledge the invaluable contributions NPs make to the healthcare system while highlighting the challenges society still faces in providing high-quality care for all.  

What Is the Role of Nurse Practitioners?

Nurse practitioners have a multifaceted role. In addition to diagnosing and treating patients, they serve as researchers, advocates, educators, and mentors. Their work not only enhances patient outcomes but also drives advancements in medical research and innovation. In 27 U.S. states, NPs have full practice authority, meaning that they can diagnose illnesses, treat patients, and prescribe medication independently. Other states enforce restrictions that limit nurse practitioners’ capabilities. Depending on the state where they practice, a nurse practitioner’s daily responsibilities may include: 

• Prescribing and managing medications.
• Assessing patients’ symptoms.
• Gathering information about patients’ family medical histories.
• Ordering and interpreting blood tests, urinalyses, X-rays, and other diagnostic tests.
• Using patient information and clinical expertise to form working diagnoses.
• Developing comprehensive treatment plans.
• Performing medical procedures and administering vaccines.
• Maintaining accurate documentation through electronic health record systems.
• Collaborating with physicians, specialists, and RNs to ensure continuity of care.
• Conducting literature reviews and clinical studies on healthcare policies.
• Referring patients to other healthcare professionals to receive specialized treatment.
• Communicating with patients after they’ve been discharged from the hospital.
• Providing post-surgical care.
• Educating patients about medication protocols, disease prevention, symptom monitoring, and healthy lifestyle choices.
• Leading workshops and training programs for community health workers and fellow NPs.
• Guiding and supporting nurses, nursing students, and other healthcare providers.

Because they have a versatile skill set and handle diverse responsibilities, NPs can work in nearly any healthcare setting, including hospitals, clinics, Veterans Affairs facilities, nursing homes, schools, government agencies, and private practices. 

Celebrating National Nurse Practitioner Week 

During Nurse Practitioner Week, organizations across the country host seminars, workshops, and community outreach programs to educate the public about the nurse practitioner role and its contributions to public health. These gatherings cover topics like chronic disease management, preventative care, nutrition, mental health awareness, health equity, and healthcare policy. If you’d like to participate in Nurse Practitioner Week, consider attending one of these events to learn more about the positive impact NPs make on community health outcomes and the obstacles faced by professionals in the field. You can also express your appreciation directly to the nurse practitioners in your life by writing a note or thanking them in person. Another way to support Nurse Practitioner Week is by sharing positive messages or testimonials on social media using the #NPWeek hashtag.  

Impact of Nurse Practitioners 

Nurse practitioners play a vital role in the lives of their patients and in the medical industry. They take a holistic approach, offering comprehensive, patient-centered care that benefits not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. To fully address the needs of patients, NPs often collaborate with doctors, nurses, specialists, surgeons, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers. These partnerships create a seamless patient experience that ensures continuity of care and encourages patients to follow treatment plans. Another factor that distinguishes NPs is their emphasis on preventative care and health education. By helping patients make informed lifestyle choices, nurse practitioners empower patients to take charge of their own health. 

Research shows that nurse practitioners offer multiple benefits to patients. For example, patients who visit NPs incur lower healthcare costs and report greater satisfaction than those who visit physicians. Multiple studies support the effectiveness of nurse practitioner care. While there are practice limitations in some states, a meta-analysis found that NPs consistently achieve patient outcomes that are equivalent to or better than those of medical doctors. As the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) summarizes, “Five decades of research affirm that NPs provide safe, high-quality, cost-effective, patient-centered care.”

Future of Nurse Practitioners 

The nurse practitioner field is booming. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of NPs is expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033. The dramatic growth rate can be attributed to several factors. Many healthcare facilities are facing primary care physician shortages and high staff turnover, prompting patients to seek care from nurse practitioners instead of doctors. The shortage is further intensified by the rapidly aging population and rising rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Patients with chronic conditions often prefer nurse practitioners because they take a whole-person approach and provide the personalized care needed to address complex medical needs. 

If you’re thinking about pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner, now is a great time to do so. This dynamic field is constantly growing and evolving. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth services and opened new avenues for nurse practitioners to care for patients outside of the traditional settings. As psychological conditions like depression and anxiety become more common, there is also an increased need for psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP). Additionally, more states are adopting full practice authority, allowing NPs to deliver services without restrictions or physician oversight. The nurse practitioner career path offers a wealth of advancement opportunities, including the chance to specialize in areas such as mental health, pediatrics, or geriatrics. 

At WGU, you can earn a Master of Science in Nursing–Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN FNP) degree that equips you with the industry-relevant skills necessary for success in this fast-paced field. The evidence-based curriculum in this program aligns with the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) standards and will prepare you for the national FNP certification exam. If you’ve already earned a Master of Science in Nursing, we offer a Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate (PMC FNP) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate (PMC PMHNP) that can help you take your nursing career to the next level. Make your career dreams a reality. Apply today!