Did you know that nurse practitioner ranks No. 1 on the U.S. News & World Report list of the best healthcare jobs? And with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expecting nurse practitioner positions to grow by an astounding 52% by 2030, the future of nurse practitioners looks bright. Now that you have obtained your nursing degree, it’s time to cultivate the expertise needed to build a successful career.
The next step after receiving your RN or BSN is to obtain a Master’s degree in nursing and become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). One type of APRN is a nurse practitioner (NP), a clinician who blends clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an added emphasis on disease prevention and health management.
A Career as a Nurse Practitioner
NPs have a comprehensive perspective on health care and practice in many different medical settings. They are able to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and order and interpret medical tests.
With 89% of NPs prepared in primary care, they constitute a vital component of the primary care workforce, ensuring high-quality and patient-centered health care is available to a broad range of consumers. In fact, NPs make up the most rapidly growing component of the primary care workforce.
Tips for Becoming a Nurse Practitioner
Earn an Advanced Degree
A minimum of a Master’s degree is needed to qualify as a nurse practitioner. This is typically achieved through a Master of Science in Nursing degree in 2 years, pursuing a particular specialty or as a generalist degree.
Earn Certification
Nurse practitioners in Ohio must be nationally certified to practice. This involves passing an examination specific to your chosen specialty, such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) certification exams. Certification also typically includes the requirement of at least 500 supervised clinical hours.
Obtain State Licensure
Once you’ve completed your education and obtained national certification, you can apply for state licensure as a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio through the Ohio Board of Nursing. Be prepared to submit the necessary documentation and pay the required fees. Ohio may also require a criminal background check as part of the application process.
Collaborative Agreement
In Ohio, Nurse Practitioners are required to work under a Standard Care Arrangement with a collaborating physician. This agreement outlines the scope of practice and collaboration expectations. Ensure that you find a physician willing to collaborate with you.
Ongoing Education
Nurse Practitioners in Ohio must maintain their national certification and adhere to continuing education requirements to keep their licenses current. Renew your Ohio NP license every two years to continue practicing.
Through education, communication, and collaboration, OAAPN is actively advancing the health and well-being of patients and its profession in Ohio. Are you ready to make a significant impact on the healthcare field in Ohio? The nursing field is constantly evolving, OAAPN is here to help you stay current with the latest healthcare advancements and refine your skills throughout your career.
There is strength in our numbers; authority in our voice; and influence in our actions. Contact us today to learn more about membership in OAAPN.