This big demand is primarily due to the physician shortage relative to an increased demand for health care services and an aging "baby-boomer" population. Pass the required exam in your specialty area. All candidates must pass an exam. Depending on their work environment, ACNPs may serve in different roles. State nursing boards generally require a graduate nursing degree from an accredited school to obtain an advanced practice nursing license. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. HOW DO I BECOME AN ADULT-GERONTOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER? The American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects a shortage of 40,800 to 104,900 physicians by the end of the next decade. Many graduate programs offer online learning, which is helpful for many nurses. State nursing boards generally require a graduate nursing degree from an accredited school to obtain an advanced practice nursing license. There is no one way to become a nurse, and there are so many different kinds of these invaluable healthcare... A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) appeals to nurses interested in an evidence-based patient care degree instead of a research-focused doctorate. RELATED: The States with the Largest Nursing Shortages. The program must take place at an accredited school. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for nurse practitioners to grow by 26% from 2018-28, which is much faster than all other occupations. They must first complete a two- or four-year degree in nursing and be licensed as registered nurses (RNs). Working well under pressure is a necessity. A BSN is the minimum requirement for entry into a graduate program. Acute care nurse practitioners (ACNP) are integral to the American healthcare landscape. ACNPs work in all types of healthcare environments, providing patient care and treatment for acute issues. Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Acute Care: The CPNP-AC certification requires a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited program. Having a healthy outlet for emotionally trying cases is necessary for ACNPs. All candidates must pass an exam following the completion of the academic program. An acute care nurse practitioner is responsible for interpreting diagnostic patient tests, ordering necessary tests, managing care for critical patients, prescribing medications, and educating patients and family members about acute illnesses. Becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. ), Collaborating with physicians to ensure patient care needs are met, Collaborating with discharge planners to ensure adequate placement and follow-up is arranged upon discharge. General NPs most often work in physicians’ offices, providing primary and acute care to patients in non-emergency settings, while ACNPs typically work in hospitals and urgent care facilities to provide treatment for acute injuries and illnesses. These requirements can vary from state to state. OBTAIN LICENSURE AS A REGISTERED NURSEBefore earning a license as an NP, a prospective ACNP must hold a valid RN license in their state. Others pursue associate degrees through community colleges. The sections below provide some further information on licensure and certification for ACNPs. These programs prepare students to take on advanced positions and roles in nursing care. However, earning licensure generally requires a nursing preparation program and passing the NCLEX-RN. BoardVitals was one of the tools I used to pass my Acute Care NP board certification exam. © 2020 NursePractitionerSchools.com, a Red Ventures Company. Nursing is riddled with various roles, career paths, and backgrounds. Others pursue associate degrees through community colleges. American Association of Critical Care NursesAs the world’s largest organization for specialty nursing, this association provides professional support for practicing critical and acute care nurses. Essentially, nurse practitioners are a safe, highly educated, and qualified member of the health care team. However, nurses in most states follow this general process for earning RN licenses: Earn a diploma, associate degree, or BSN. The time it takes to become an acute care nurse practitioner can vary based on several factors. Once you possess a valid RN license in good standing, you may pursue an ACNP license, which commonly requires you to do the following: Earn an MSN or DNP degree. Prior experience in acute care is crucial in that it helps build the skills needed to practice as an ACNP. NPs may practice independently if they maintain a joint protocol with a licensed physician. FIND EMPLOYMENTUpon obtaining licensure and appropriate credentials, ACNPs may then seek employment in their specialty area. As more patients utilize health care services, the number of physicians available to address their needs is not sufficient. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), 49.9% of NPs hold hospital privileges which allow them to meet the demand of a growing population seeking health care. Even before earning a graduate nursing degree or pursuing an ACNP license, RNs can earn certifications in acute and critical care to gain valuable credentials and experience in these areas.Nurses can pursue different certifications to align with their career goals.