Registered Nurse (RN): The Caregiver Extraordinaire
RNs are the foundation of patient care. Within the Primary Care Networks (PCNs), they provide direct, hands-on care, including screening and assessments, management of milder, non-complex conditions, assisting with procedures, and educating patients and families. They work within Patient Medical Homes (clinics) as part of the team providing care. They are a vital member of the PCN team.
RNs are vital to the healthcare team but generally follow care plans designed by Family Doctors or Nurse Practitioners (NPs). While they do not diagnose or prescribe treatments, they provide excellent support to patients.
Nurse Practitioner (NP): The Advanced Caregiver
NPs take nursing to the next level. With advanced graduate-level clinical education and training, they diagnose and treat medical conditions, order tests and prescribe medications, refer to specialists, conduct minor procedures and perform physical exams. They specialize in areas like mental health, seniors care or pediatrics, attaching patients and even running their own Patient Medical Homes in some areas.
To become an NP, you must first be an RN. Then, you complete advanced education (Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing) and pass certification exams in your specialty area.
NPs have more autonomy than RNs, often working independently or with a supervising physician. You can find out more about NPs here.
Key Differences:
- Education: RNs complete 2-4 years of training; NPs complete additional years of advanced education.
- Responsibilities: RNs provide care; NPs diagnose, treat, and prescribe.
- Independence: In the PCNs, NPs can be a patient’s primary care provider and work independently to support them
In short, both RNs and NPs are crucial, but NPs have advanced training allowing them to take on more responsibilities in patient care.