What best describes a nurse practitioner?

A nurse practitioner is best described as an advanced practice nurse providing both primary and specialty care. This role requires advanced education and clinical training, typically at least a master's degree in nursing or a doctoral degree. Nurse practitioners are able to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care independently or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Their scope of practice is broader compared to that of a registered nurse, allowing them to perform many functions similar to those of a physician in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.

The other descriptions do not adequately reflect the full scope of responsibilities of a nurse practitioner. While a nurse who specializes in surgical care, a registered nurse providing basic patient care, and a nurse responsible solely for outpatient services may all play important roles within healthcare, they each limit the understanding of the multifaceted capabilities and qualifications of a nurse practitioner.