What are pediatric nurse practitioners?
Pediatric nurse practitioners are “advanced practice nurses.” They are registered nurses with masters degrees or other advanced education specializing in pediatrics. This education focuses on the treatment of primary health care of infants, children, and adolescents. PNP’s focus on the “whole” child, including well child care and anticipatory guidance for physical, emotional, intellectual, and social aspects of development. PMA’s pediatric nurse practitioners have a total of more than 100 years of experience working in pediatrics, and their practical training in clinical (non-hospital) based pediatrics exceeds that of MD training for a new Doctor. Overall, pediatric nurse practitioners provide solid primary health care to children. Health promotion and preventative medicine are a large part of the role of PNP’s. Can pediatric nurse practitioners diagnose and treat my sick child? Yes, PNP’s are able to treat acute illnesses as well as stable chronic illnesses. PNP’s are independent prac
