How Do Obstetrical-Gynecologic Nurse Practitioners Function?
The OGNP is a member of the health care team who provides independent and collaborative functions under the direct and indirect supervision of a physician. Nurse Practitioners traditionally function in the following four ways. They provide preventive care, episodic care, collaborative care and surgical care. 1. Preventive Care: A women’s optimal health is maintained by preventive care. This is achieved through the annual gynecological exam, health education, and referrals to other health care professionals as needed. The primary focus is placed on health promotion including lifestyle and health behaviors, family planning and disease prevention. The OGNP is the primary source of health care for many women. 2. Episodic Care: Episodic care is the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic problems. This includes urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, menstrual disorders and other obstetrical-gynecologic concerns. The OGNP will evaluate and refer more seri
