What is a NURSE PRACTITIONER?
What is a Nurse Practitioner (NP)?
I want to take some time to clarify and define the role of an NP. This role has been in Australia for 20 years, but despite this there remain only 2,000 of us nationally. Our Clinical footprint is growing.
The NP scope of practice and level of clinical expertise and academic qualifications is defined in the following information. NPs are the clinical leaders of our Nursing Profession
It is important to understand Significant differences in this Role from Practice Nurse Role in General Practice or the Nurse Injector Role in the Cosmetic Injectable space.
A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a Registered Nurse with the experience, expertise and authority to diagnose and treat people of all ages with a variety of acute or chronic health conditions. Nurse Practitioners work directly with you and provide comprehensive services including
Assessment and Diagnosis of your health problems
Referrals for necessary X-rays and blood tests
Prescription of Medication
Referrals to other Health Practitioners
Education, counselling and support
NPs have completed additional university study at Master’s degree level and are the most senior and independent clinical nurses in our health care system.
The title "Nurse Practitioner" can only be used by a person who has been endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
Did you know that Nurse practitioners ...
Have practised in Australia for 21+ years
Provide health care in all states and territories in Australia
Can provide patient rebates through Medicare
Provide prescriptions and access to PBS medicines
Can refer patients to hospitals and specialists
Can order x-rays and diagnostic tests
Are registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA)
National standards for practice ensure that Nurse Practitioners are capable of providing high quality, patient centred care. They are also capable in clinical research, education and leadership as applied to clinical care and health service development.
Nurse Practitioners work as key members of the healthcare team and collaborate with other nurses and healthcare professionals including GPs, medical and surgical specialists, physiotherapists, dieticians, occupational therapists, social workers, and many others.
They work in a variety of locations, both in hospital and community settings.
This innovative role aims to:
Improve access to treatment
Provide cost-effective care
Target at-risk populations
Provide outreach services in rural and remote communities
Provide mentorship and clinical expertise to other health professionals
In the Aesthetics and Skin environment, this means that we are able to complete a full episode of care for our patients.
From assessment and diagnosis, to developing a plan of treatment and all that may comprehensively involve – prescribing required medications, ordering diagnostic tests, as well as referring you to a Medical Specialist if
required.
We manage all aspect of your care with Medical Skill and Training through a Nursing Lens
The Nurse Practitioner title can only be used by a person who has been endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
