The 2020 recognition of National Nurse Practitioner Week is celebrated November 8-14. This is a time to honor the critical role of nurse practitioners (NPs) in championing the health of our nation.
There are more than 290,000 NPs licensed in the U.S. At UMC, we have nurse practitioners practicing in nearly every area: Bariatrics, Burn Intensive Care, Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, Gastroenterology, Hematology/Oncology, Internal Medicine, Neurosurgery, Neonatal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, and Trauma Surgery.
NPs are advanced care clinicians that offer a comprehensive perspective to health care. They have received graduate degrees as well as advanced education and clinical training beyond their registered nurse preparation. NPs are trained to provide a full range of services, such as ordering, performing and interpreting diagnostic tests, diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions, prescribing medications and treatments and managing overall patient care.
In this year 2020, know that you are not alone. Nurse Practitioners are fighting for you because everyone deserves a champion who listens, diagnoses, prescribes and treats. On the front lines, in clinics and hospitals, Nurse Practitioners are working to help communities get the health resources they need. Happy Nurse Practitioner Week to our colleagues during this healthcare crisis and beyond.