The nurse practitioner position is rated #1 in best jobs, best healthcare jobs, and best STEM jobs in the United States. During National Nurse Practitioner Week, we recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions Nurse Practitioners make to healthcare and society. These professionals play a vital role in today’s healthcare landscape and the occupation is growing exponentially. Nurse practitioners are certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) which indicates that they have high levels of education, specialized training, and responsibilities. Nurse practitioners’ salaries are above the national average and are expected to grow over the next few years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists nurse practitioners as the third fastest-growing occupation in the United States, and they are also the highest-paid among the top three. Overall, the outlook for NP jobs is positive, making it worthwhile to learn more about this position.
What is a nurse practitioner?
A nurse practitioner (NP) is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) who obtained additional education and training to provide essential care to patients. Depending on state regulations, NPs can prescribe medication, serve as primary care providers, order diagnostic tests, provide counseling, and manage overall patient care. Nurse practitioners must obtain a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Is an NP the same as an MD?
Nurse practitioners are indeed skilled healthcare providers but they are not MDs. NP schooling includes completing nursing school and earning a master’s or doctoral program in nursing while physicians undergo extensive training in medical school followed by years of residency. Although there is a difference in schooling, NP jobs allow the same tasks as doctors depending on state laws. NPs and MDs often work closely together, collaborating to provide essential care for patients.
There are also notable differences in their approaches to patient care. While there is overlap, doctors tend to be more educated on the scientific aspect of an illness, whereas NP jobs often focus on care and recovery.
How much do nurse practitioners make?
Nurse practitioners make a median of $126,260 a year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data includes nurse practitioner salaries, bonuses, incentive pay, and other forms of compensation. However, this amount can vary significantly based on education level, expertise, and the location of employment. The three highest-paying states for nurse practitioners are California, with an average salary of $161,540; Nevada, at $148,670; and Washington, at $145,400.
The outlook for NP jobs is important to consider, as the demand for these positions is projected to grow by 46% from 2023 to 2033. This growth rate surpasses the national average, giving NPs an opportunity to earn higher pay due to increasing demand. Much of this potential comes from locum tenens positions, which can offer compensation that surpasses the median yearly amount due to negotiation leverage.
What is the highest-paid nurse practitioner?
Nurse practitioner salary and other forms of compensation for the neonatology specialty are the highest, according to a recent report by Becker’s Hospital Review. Following neonatal nurse practitioners (NNP), the top three highest-paid NP specialties are emergency medicine and hospital medicine. All three occupations require additional training and accreditation, depending on the state of practice. To find a locum tenens position in any of these categories, click here.
How much do neonatal nurse practitioners make?
Neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP) salary and other forms of compensation is a median of $144,461 on the report of Becker’s Hospital Review. NNPs who specialize in neonatology oversee care for premature infants and children up to two years old in various settings. Most notably, NNPs oversee preemies in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and monitor them around the clock. Given the complexity of NP jobs, the salary and additional compensation package is justified.
How much do emergency medical nurse practitioners make?
Emergency medical nurse practitioners (ENP) make an estimated $137,280 a year according to the latest report by Becker’s Hospital Review. This figure includes ENP salary and additional forms of earnings. This NP job involves providing intensive care in a fast-paced environment. ENPs in this role must be equipped to manage stressful situations while collaborating with a large team. To learn how to get licensed as an ENP, click here.
How much do nurse practitioner hospitalists make?
Nurse practitioner hospitalists make a median of $128,483 a year. In addition to the six-figure pay, a recent study by the National Library of Medicine found that these NPs thrive in their role. Those in the position describe themselves as ‘empowered’ to perform the tasks at hand and be active team members.
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