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Nurse practitioner.

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Where is the best place to live to do this job?

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Where is the best place to live to do this job?

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Washington State,New Mexico and Oregon

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Dreaming of opening your own clinic? Or, perhaps you are tired of handing the red tape associated with practicing as a nurse practitioner? Laws regulating NP practice vary significantly between states and can affect what your job looks like on a day to day basis. For example, some states require NPs to work within a certain radius of an overseeing physician and others regulate nurse practitioner's prescribing abilities. One state's laws may permit you to open your own clinic with ease while another's could have you jumping through hoops.

Regardless of your reasons for seeking independence in your practice, living in a nurse practitioner friendly state can certainly give you more room to grow in your NP career. Which states fare best when it comes to nurse practitioner scope of practice laws?

Residents of Washington State have an overall liberal mindset. You can't visit Seattle, after all, without seeing a some blue hair and a few wannabe rockers pining away for the 90's. This independent mindset extends to nurse practitioners practicing in the state. Physician involvement is not required in practice or prescribing for NPs living in Washington State. Furthermore, Washington was the first state, and remains one of the few in the nation, that currently allows nurse practitioners to prescribe medical marijuana.

New Mexico's Governor, Susana Martinez, is a big fan of nurse practitioners so the state has scope of practice laws to match. NPs practicing in New Mexico may practice and prescribe independently of physician oversight. Not only are New Mexico's laws regulating nurse practitioners among the most favorable in the nation, the state is actively recruiting NPs to its ranks. Recently, New Mexico implemented an ad campaign in neighboring Texas encouraging nurse practitioners to relocate to neighboring New Mexico where scope of practice laws are more favorable. As an added bonus, New Mexico also offers NPs practicing in rural areas a $3,000 tax credit.

Oregon has long recognized the value of nurse practitioners to healthcare. For example, the state began allowing NPs to prescribe controlled substances as early as 1979. Nurse practitioners working in Oregon may both practice and prescribe without physician oversight. Aspiring NPs should note that in Oregon, new nurse practitioners are required to have at least 384 hours of registered nursing experience outside of the academic setting in order to obtain a nurse practitioner license, a requirement not held by most other states.

Like Oregon, Alaska has a rich history of supporting nurse practitioners. Alaska began adapting scope of practice laws granting NPs more freedom as early as the 1980's and hasn't looked back since. Physician involvement in diagnosing, treating, and prescribing for patients is not required for nurse practitioners practicing in Alaska. Furthermore, new NPs may begin practicing immediately upon graduation, even while certification exam results are pending. This allows for a smooth transition from education to practice.

"Live free or die", New Hampshire's state motto rings true for nurse practitioners practicing in the state. Like all other states on our list, New Hampshire does not require physician supervision or collaboration in practice or prescribing when it comes to NPs. The state also has a provision for newly graduated nurse practitioners allowing a temporary license to practice before sitting for the national certification exam. This gives new nurse practitioners a seamless transition from education to practice.

Arizona completes our list of most nurse practitioner friendly states. Nurse practitioners working in Arizona enjoy the freedom to practice and prescribe independently. Within this freedom, however, state law specifies that NPs must practice only within their area of certification, they should not "exceed the limits" of their advanced practice specialty.

Overall, west is best when it comes to nurse practitioner scope of practice regulations. Five of the top six most favorable states for NP practice lie in the western half of the country. While these states stand out above others when it comes to offering nurse practitioners freedom in their practice, more and more states are jumping on the NP independence bandwagon. Soon, we could see all 50 states mirroring the practice and prescribing laws of the nation's most nurse practitioner friendly locales.

You Might Also Like: Legislative Lash Out- NP Scope of Practice Laws in the News

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6 Best States for Nurse Practitioner Practice

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Dreaming of opening your own clinic? Or, perhaps you are tired of handing the red tape associated with practicing as a nurse practitioner? Laws regulating NP practice vary significantly between states and can affect what your job looks like on a day to day basis.

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$98,315 to $115,100

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Salary for Nurse Practitioner | Salary.com

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Find out your worth. Get a free personalized salary report to view salary ranges, and bonus and benefits information for Nurse Practitioner jobs in the United States or search by specific US and Canadian cities and towns.

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What are the positive aspects of this job?

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What are the positive aspects of this job?

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Career Growth,
Salary and
Autonomy (Plus, Better Work-Life Balance)

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Every profession has its share of pros and cons. Today, I will share my list of pros and cons of being a nurse practitioner.

Pros

Job Outlook: It is generally understood that the NP profession will continue to grow as more uninsured Americans will soon be entering the health system under the Affordable Care Act in the coming years. This is great job security and underscores the need for clinicians.

The Power to Make a Difference in the Lives of Patients: One of the most satisfying things to me about being a nurse practitioner is the ability to fully care for a patient and develop treatment plans in partnership with them.

Schedule: This one depends on how you view scheduling. Most of the NPs I know work a traditional 5 day, 40 hour/week while others may work three 12 hour shifts per week. The pro here is that there is flexibility in scheduling depending on your setting. Health care is delivered 24 hours a day for 365 days a year and nurse practitioners comprise part of the health care team caring for patients.

Mentor Opportunities - I believe it is a privilege to ultimately help train and educate future NPs within the profession. Mentor and preceptor opportunities are plentiful and desperately needed to teach from the NP perspective.

Practice Settings - Another pro is that there are opportunities to work in many different settings as an NP. For example, as a family nurse practitioner, I have worked in college, correctional, retail, occupational and men's health. The opportunity to work in different areas within the profession was a very important factor in my choosing to enter nursing.

Income: According to the 2010 Advance for NPs & PAs National Salary Report, the average salary in 2010 for NPs, was $90,770. Obviously, this number varies according to location and practice setting. For example, in the NY metropolitan area where I practice, NP salaries are $100k+.

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Cons

Competition: With the popularity of the NP profession, many are choosing this pathway which can make it difficult to get into a program do to the stiff competition. Also, there is a general lack of enough qualified faculty to teach in the NP programs.

Antiquated Regulations & Laws Governing NP Practice: There is much variation regarding NP practice according to the state in which you practice. Some states are much more restrictive in terms of prescriptive authority, collaboration, and autonomy.

Bias Against the Profession: There are some individuals who believe that NPs shouldn't practice in the way that we do. Therefore, we sometimes come across these individuals who are looking for us to fail.

On-Call: Depending on the practice setting, there may be on-call expectations that may or may not be compensated. I am not the biggest fan of being tied to a pager/cell-phone.

Landing that First Job: Despite the many opportunities for NPs, it can sometimes be difficult to land your first NP job. Many employers look for experienced providers. The more diverse your background is, the better the chances of finding that first job with little to no experience.

Lack of Formal Residency Programs: Unlike Federally funded residency programs for physicians, NP students must rely on clinical placements to satisfy program and licensing requirements. While most placements are good learning environments, some are not. Lacking a paid and formal residency program means that it could prove more difficult to get the required meaningful clinical experience.

I believe the pros outweigh the cons for choosing the NP profession and many will find it a rewarding and fulfilling career!

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The Pros and Cons of Being a Nurse Practitioner - Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

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Every profession has its share of pros and cons. Today, I will share my list of pros and cons of being a nurse practitioner. Pros Job Outlook: It is generally understood that the NP profession will continue to grow as more uninsured Americans will soon be entering the health system under the Affordable Care Act in ...

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What are the best colleges that will help you prepare for this job?

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What are the best colleges that will help you prepare for this job?

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1)University of Pennsylvania., 2)Johns Hopkins Universit, 3) University of California-San Francisco

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The following items should be considered before choosing a nursing school:

Aspiring nurse practitioners who want to specialize in a certain type of care may want to look for schools that offer specialized programs; for instance, some schools offer pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) or family nurse practitioner (FNP) programs.

It can be helpful to find out what the pass rate is for graduates on the state's NP licensure exam, as well as certification exams offered by professional organizations.

Prospective students with undergraduate degrees in areas not related to nursing may want to consider an accelerated BSN-to-MSN program.

Students should look for schools that include clinical experiences in the type of institution where they might like to get a job in the future, such as a hospital, acute care center or surgical practice.

Bachelor's Degree Programs

A bachelor's degree is not sufficient to become a nurse practitioner, but there are a few schools that offer dual BS/MS options for aspiring nurse practitioners. Individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing can enroll in one of these programs, which results in both a BSN and MSN. When they finish, graduates are qualified for both RN licensure and NP licensure.

Master's Degree Programs

Master's degree programs for aspiring nurse practitioners include the advanced theoretical coursework and extensive clinical training needed for a career as a nurse practitioner. When they finish, graduates are prepared for state licensure exams and professional certifications in the field. Some schools offer some of the classes online in order to accommodate the needs of working nurses.

Doctoral Degree Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are available for nurses who want to advance their expertise to the highest academic level and prepare for leadership positions in clinical care or healthcare policy. Possible specialization options within DNP programs include family primary care, pediatric primary care, and adult-gerontological acute care. Depending on the program, these programs typically take three or four years to complete.

Graduate Certificate Programs

Graduate certificates are available for trained nurses who have previously earned a master's degree in an area other than advanced practice, but want to redirect their careers and become nurse practitioners. Like master's degree programs, these certificates prepare graduates for licensure. In addition, there are certificates available for certified nurse practitioners who want to expand their expertise into a different specialization area.

Aspiring nurse practitioners should look for programs that coincide with their educational backgrounds and future career aspirations. Prospective students may want to look for programs with high licensure and certification exam pass rates.

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Nurse Practitioner Schools and Colleges in the U.S.

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The following items should be considered before choosing a nursing school: Aspiring nurse practitioners who want to specialize in a certain type of care may want to look for schools that offer specialized programs; for instance, some schools offer pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) or family nurse practitioner (FNP) programs. It can be helpful to find out what the pass rate is for graduates on the state's NP licensure exam, as well as certification exams offered by professional organizations.

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What are the negative aspects of this job?

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What are the negative aspects of this job?

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Working Hours. ...

Working Conditions. ...

Stress. ...

Legal Risks.

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A nurse practitioner career has several disadvantages including high stress levels and difficult work schedules.

Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images

Nurse practitioners perform many tasks as a part of health care teams including physical examinations, interpreting X-rays and laboratory results, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication and monitoring treatment plans. Nurse practitioners are in high demand because of their ability to complete many primary care services. However, a career as a nurse practitioner has several disadvantages.

Qualifications

Nurse practitioners must complete extensive education making it difficult for some people to finish the educational requirements. Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with at least a master's degree. According to Nurse Practitioner Zone, beginning in 2015, nurse practitioners must complete a doctorate degree to practice. Extensive, specialized training includes diagnostic procedures, anatomy and physiology and prescribing medication.

Working Hours

Nurse practitioners work at least a 40-hour work week, often including weekends and night shifts, although the specific hours and expectations vary based on the nurse's employer. Many nurse practitioners, especially those who work in hospitals or other 24-hour care facilities, work rotating shifts. In some cases, nurses may also be on-call and may be required to work overtime. Nurse practitioners working in private practices or nonemergency clinics have more control over their hours and typically only work day shifts. The long and varied hours may negatively affect the nurse's family and social life.

Working Conditions

Nurse practitioners may work in settings such as those listed previously as well as pharmaceutical companies and research facilities. Conditions in these locations may vary and cause risk to the nurse. Nurses working in teaching and administrative roles face few risks. Nurses in clinical settings face greater risks and are exposed to blood and contagious diseases. Depending on the research topic, nurses in research facilities may also face the risk of contracting a disease or side effects from any chemicals and medications with which they come in contact.

Stress

Nurse practitioners experience high levels of stress. They deal with sick or injured patients on a regular basis and are responsible for patients' treatment plans. This is a huge responsibility for the nurse, and in some cases, a patient cannot be treated or saved creating further emotional stress. In addition, nurses often speak with patients' families who may be angry or grieving. Nurses also face potential conflicts with doctors and other medical staff ranging from personality conflicts to disagreements over diagnoses and treatment plans.

Legal Risks

Nurse practitioners in most states have the power to diagnose and treat patients and prescribe medication. This responsibility leaves nurse practitioners open to malpractice law suits from patients who are unhappy with their treatment, don't recover or suffer side effects. If a patient dies, the nurse practitioner may also be sued by the patient's family. In additions, according to the "Nevada Nurses Legal Handbook," nurses may face malpractice or civil lawsuits for medications that are administered incorrectly or in the wrong doses, even if the medications are prescribed by a physician.

About the Author

Maureen Malone started writing in 2008. She writes articles for business promotion and informational articles on various websites. Malone has a Bachelor of Science in technical management with an emphasis in biology from DeVry University.

Photo Credits

Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images

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The Disadvantages of Being a Nurse Practitioner

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Nurse practitioners perform many tasks as a part of health care teams including physical examinations, interpreting X-rays and laboratory results, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication and monitoring treatment plans. Nurse practitioners are in high demand because of their ability to complete many primary care ...

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What computer or technological skills do you need for this?

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What computer or technological skills do you need for this?

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leadership skills, self-confidence and analytical skills; excellent communication abilities and interpersonal skills are also essential

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Reasons Why Every Nurse Needs to Have Informatics Skills

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One much-discussed topic in modern health care is informatics, the application of computers and information technology to health care. A fundamental competency in informatics is especially important for nurses. They are the largest health care profession, with over 2.7 million registered nurses and a further 750,000 ...

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Compassion, Communication, Ethics,Critical Thinking,Attention To Detail, Confidence, Adaptability,Stamina and Commitment To Development

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In addition to having solid health care skills, those who succeed in the nursing profession possess unique qualities of character and spirit. These are nine personal attributes every nurse needs to provide the best possible patient care.
(Stuck in a career rut and need help? Watch this free webinar)
9 Essential Nursing Skills

1. Compassion

A nurse must be drawn to caring for the sick and injured. This includes having empathy for the pain and suffering of patients, as well as a strong desire to make the hospital experience as positive as possible.

2. Communication

Since a nurse is often a patient's advocate as well as a link between family members and hospital staff, the ability to effectively speak and listen is critically important. Nurses in the research and education sectors also must be able to communicate and collaborate effectively.

3. Ethics

A nurse needs a solid framework of ethics that will guide personal and professional conduct. This framework should include a commitment to humanitarian service and concern for the dignity of all patients.

4. Critical Thinking

Nurses are faced with important choices on a daily basis and must be able to use critical thinking to aid in decision-making. Furthermore, nurses who are involved in policy-making need critical thinking in order to successfully improve health care for all members of society.

5. Attention To Detail

A nurse's actions on the job can have far-reaching consequences. Whether you're a family nurse practitioner or nurse midwife, even the smallest mistake may have tragic results, therefore, strict attention to detail must be second nature for a nurse.

6. Confidence

Nurses must be confident they have the skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care. They must be able to work independently with little supervision, knowing they will get the job done. Self-doubt can be dangerous when a nurse is faced with a critical situation.

7. Adaptability

Flexibility and the ability to adapt are especially important for nurses. Like doctors, nurses are often required to work long hours. They must also deal with fluctuating schedules, and the ability to cope becomes paramount in such situations.

8. Stamina

Nursing is a demanding profession that requires physical, mental and emotional strength. An effective nurse needs a high energy level and a healthy lifestyle in order to succeed.

9. Commitment To Development

Health care is a dynamic field. In order to stay current, a successful nurse is dedicated to continuing education and participation in professional organizations.

If you're having trouble landing a job, watch this free webinar " How 5,000+ Professionals Got Out Of Their Career Rut" with J.T. O'Donnell. REGISTER NOW!

This article was written by Social Media Outreach Coordinator Erica Moss on behalf of Work It Daily-Approved Partner, 2tor. An education technology company that partners with institutions of higher education such as Georgetown University to deliver their online Masters in Nursing degree. Now you know if you have the essential nursing skills to be a practitioner.

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9 Nursing Skills Every Practitioner Should Possess

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In addition to having solid health care skills, those who succeed in the nursing profession possess unique qualities of character and spirit. These are nine personal attributes every nurse needs to provide the best possible patient care. (Stuck in a career rut and need help? Watch this free webinar) 1.