What is the difference in a neonatal nurse practitioner and nurse?
Education
* NNP: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a specialization in neonatal nursing
* Nurse: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree
Training
* NNP: Complete a two-year graduate-level program in neonatal nursing, which includes advanced coursework and clinical training in the care of neonates
* Nurse: Complete a four-year undergraduate program in nursing, which includes general coursework and clinical training in various nursing specialties
Scope of Practice
* NNP: Provide comprehensive care to neonates, including:
* Performing physical examinations
* Diagnosing and treating medical conditions
* Prescribing medications
* Providing nutritional support
* Administering respiratory therapy
* Providing emotional support to families
* Nurse: Provide nursing care to neonates, including:
* Monitoring vital signs
* Administering medications
* Providing hygiene care
* Feeding neonates
* Assisting with medical procedures
Certification
* NNP: Must be certified by the National Certification Corporation (NCC) in order to practice
* Nurse: May be certified in a variety of nursing specialties, but this is not required in order to practice
Salaries
* NNP: Average salary of $101,550 per year
* Nurse: Average salary of $75,330 per year
Demand for Practitioners
* Both NNPs and nurses are in high demand due to the increasing number of hospitalized neonates