Hiring Acute Care Nurse Practitioners
An acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who is a specialist in the field of care for critically ill or injured patients. They diagnose medical problems and plan treatments and medications to help patients overcome injuries, illnesses, or exacerbated chronic conditions. ACNPs are highly valued in their ability to deliver comprehensive care to those seeking advanced healthcare. These professionals work primarily in hospitals and urgent care centers. Acute care nurse practitioners are invaluable members of the healthcare team, filling any gaps due to physician shortages. ACNPs help reduce health care costs by providing comprehensive care to patients in need at the first point of service. Since it is one of the most sought after careers in the healthcare field, ACNP professionals draw a lucrative salary, which includes an average salary of $102,464, a bonus averaging $5,082, and profit-sharing programs averaging $4,000 per year. These nurses can further specialize in critical care, cardiac care, emergency care, or trauma care in order to advance their careers.
Duties of an acute care nurse practitioner
ACNP's duties may vary depending on their particular area of work. They perform treatments that include: administering of acute care medicines and assessing a patient's vital signs and other related symptoms that could indicate a shift in the patient's condition. Their main duties also encompass conducting patient check-ups to measure the performance of the treatment. ACNPs record the patient's care plan using recognized diagnosis means and report the progress to the acute care nurse manager. They follow the doctor's recommendations to reach expected patient outcomes. They interact with patients and families and explain ongoing and follow up treatments in a clear and careful way. In addition, they strive to present a safe, comfortable, and therapeutic environment for patients.
Acute care nurse practitioner requirements
A master's degree in nursing is the minimum educational requirement to work as an ACNP, with some employers preferring industry certifications as well. Some employers allow nurses to complete their graduate program concurrently while working in acute care. Prior experience in acute or critical care is crucial to building the skills and getting hired as an ACNP. ACNPs must be able to work well individually as well as in a team environment to reach organizational objectives in a timely manner. Candidates should be skilled in critical thinking and prompt decision-making. They need to have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, be able to multitask, and be organized. They must have the ability to follow patient privacy regulations and all relevant safety procedures. Other essential qualities include: flexibility, the ability to work in chaotic and ever-changing environments, and the capacity to solve complex problems calmly.
