Becoming a family nurse practitioner (FNP) requires completing a graduate-level education program and passing a national certification exam. This guide provides an overview of the steps necessary to become an FNP, what FNPs do, and common career paths.
Obtain a Nursing Degree and Become Licensed as an RN
To become a family nurse practitioner (FNP), you will first need to obtain a nursing degree and become licensed as an RN. The reason why this is what to do to become an FNP is that FNPs provide primary care services to families, including both preventative care and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses. In order to provide these services, FNPs must have a strong foundation in nursing knowledge and clinical skills. RNs who have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing and have passed the NCLEX-RN exam are well prepared to provide high-quality primary care services as an FNP.
Complete a Master’s Degree in Nursing
If you’re a registered nurse looking to advance your career, you may be wondering what to do to become a family nurse practitioner. The answer is simple: complete a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN).
A family nurse practitioner is a highly-skilled and specialized type of nurse who provides primary care services to families and individuals. They are able to diagnose and treat common illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide preventive care services.
Becoming an FNP requires completing a graduate-level education program. In most cases, this will be a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a focus on family nurse practitioner studies. Once you have obtained your RN license, you can then apply to a Master’s Degree in Nursing program. Most MSN programs will require you to have at least two years of experience working as an RN before being accepted into the program.
Once you have completed your MSN, you will then need to pass a national certification exam in order to practice as a family nurse practitioner. After passing the exam, you will be required to obtain a state license in order to practice. There is also the option of taking a post-master FNP online for further enrichment and additional certification. In addition, some RNs may be able to complete a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a focus on family care.
Obtain Certification from an Accredited Organization
Becoming a family nurse practitioner (FNP) is a huge accomplishment that requires dedication, passion, and hard work. However, simply becoming a registered nurse (RN) and completing an accredited FNP program isn’t enough – you must also obtain certification from an accredited organization in order to practice as an FNP.
In order to provide the best possible care for patients, FNPs must be knowledgeable about the latest evidence-based practices and treatments. Certification ensures that FNPs have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care. Additionally, many employers require FNPs to be certified in order to be hired.
There are a few different ways to become certified as an FNP. The most common way is to take the national exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). To be eligible to take the ANCC exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) or higher, a current RN license, and completed an accredited FNP program.
You can also become certified through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) or the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). To be eligible to take either of these exams, you must have a BSN or higher and completed an accredited FNP program. You do not need to be an RN to take either of these exams, but you must have an RN license in order to practice as an FNP.
Once you’ve completed an accredited FNP program and met all eligibility requirements, you can register for the certification exam of your choice. Once you pass the exam, you will be officially certified and can begin practicing as an FNP.
Research What Family Nurse Practitioners Do
Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are a type of advanced practice registered nurse who provides primary care services to patients of all ages. FNPs typically focus on preventive care and health promotion, but they also provide diagnosis and treatment for acute and chronic conditions. In some states, FNPs may also prescribe medication.
The scope of care provided by FNPs varies by state, but generally includes:
- Health history and physical exams
- Diagnosis and treatment of common conditions
- Management of chronic diseases
- Health screenings and vaccinations
- Counseling on lifestyle changes to promote wellness
- Ordering and interpretation of diagnostic tests
Know the Common Career Paths for FNPs
Family nurse practitioners can work in a variety of settings, including primary care clinics, hospitals, and private practices. They may also work in specialty care clinics, such as those that focus on pediatrics or geriatrics.
FNPs typically work full-time hours, although some may work part-time or have flexible schedules. They may also be required to work evenings, weekends, or holidays depending on their place of employment.
Salary and job outlook vary by state, but FNPs can typically expect to earn a competitive salary and have good job prospects.
If you’re looking for a rewarding and challenging career, becoming a family nurse practitioner is a great option. With the help of an MSN degree, you can provide high-quality care to families and individuals while making a difference in your community.
