Family Nurse Practitioner Programs

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are trained professionals who are involved in providing primary health care and guidance to patients and families. These nurses are also responsible for working with families and informing them about different medical conditions and topics such as child birth and geriatric issues. Because the FNP is expected to be a source of information to the patients, they are required to have an extensive and comprehensive knowledge of a variety of medical conditions to be able to diagnose them.

How Can I Become A Family Nurse Practitioner?
Becoming an FNP requires a high level of training. If you are interested in this career, you will have to complete at least a graduate degree with an emphasis in family medicine. You will also have to complete particular licensing tests which will allow you to legally practice your profession within the US. The first step of training will involve enrolling in an undergraduate course for Registered Nursing. You can choose between a diploma, an associate's degree, or a Bachelor's degree to complete this requirement. Over the course of your undergraduate studies, you will cover the basic training needed to be an effective nurse. Once you complete your studies, you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

As an RN, you are expected to spend some time working in a professional capacity to familiarize yourself with professional settings. You can also use this time to explore your interest in family medicine. The next step is to apply to a graduate program. These are offered all across the United States and vary in their duration and academic rigor. You can choose a family nurse practitioner program which meets your preferences and budget. However, you must make sure that your program is accredited by either the CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) or the NLNAC (National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission). Only those students who complete this program can be eligible for the nursing license certification exam at the end of their studies. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) administers the FNP-BC (family nurse practitioner-board certified) test and license; this must be renewed every 5 years.

Why Should I Become An FNP?
The first reason to consider becoming an FNP is the demand. The healthcare industry in the US is among the fastest growing, and there is a constant need for qualified professionals who can help bridge the gap between doctors and patients. Family nurse practitioners are also important to help treat a growing population and patients from diverse backgrounds. Another reason to enter the field is the nature of the job itself. As an FNP, you are going to be providing important medical information to your patients, and help promote a safer, healthier environment for all. If you enjoy the field of medicine and like to deal with multiple different situations at the same time, then this is an excellent career for you to consider; the opportunities are also wide open.