Nurse Practitioner
An Air Force nurse practitioner (NP) is a privileged provider in one of five specialty areas: family (FNP), women's health (WHNP), pediatric (PNP), psychiatric mental health (PMHNP) and acute care (ACNP). NPs provide comprehensive healthcare to military members, retirees and families in practice settings ranging from solo practice in small clinics to group practice at large medical centers around the globe. ACNPs have the opportunity to perform in the role of hospitalist at inpatient facilities. Within a privileged scope of care, NPs obtain medical histories; perform physical exams; diagnose and manage acute and chronic illnesses; order and interpret diagnostic tests; prescribe treatment, including drug therapy; and perform minor office procedures. In addition, NPs coach, mentor and train other healthcare professionals in the specialty and actively participate in making improvements to patient care. Entry-level preparation for an Air Force NP is a master's degree and national certification as applicable for the specialty. Advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) and basic life support (BLS) certifications are also required.
