FNPs in Practice – 11 Frequently Asked Questions

A family nurse practitioner (FNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse who has completed specialized training to provide comprehensive care for families and children. The primary role of the FNP is to work closely with a physician or other members of the medical team to coordinate patient care across the continuum from prenatal through adult life. This includes health promotion, disease prevention, acute illness management, chronic illness management, and end-of-life planning.

The FNP also works with patients’ families to ensure that they are well informed about their child’s condition and treatment options and decides on those treatments. In addition, the FNP assists with communication between the patient/family and care providers and facilitates the education of the patient/family about health maintenance. They also provide emotional support to the patient/family during times of crisis.

However, if you are looking for some answers before pursuing this profession or going to an FNP, here are some of the most frequently asked questions that could help you out:

1. Can FNPs Prescribe Medicine?

Yes. An FNP must have a license by the state where they practice as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). All states require that FNPs have passed national certification exams in pediatrics, general nursing, and family medicine. They can also have a Master of Science in Nursing FNP Degree or Doctorate of Nursing Practice FNP degree. Most states allow RNs to take the National Certification Exam for Family Nurse Practitioner and become certified within two years of graduate school. This enables them to begin working with patients immediately.

2. Are Family Nurse Practitioners Considered Doctors?

No. Medical doctors hold full authority over the diagnosis and treatment of patients, while FNPs are considered part of the medical team. While physicians often refer patients to FNPs, it is not required. FNPs are not required to accept referrals from physicians, and many choose not to do so. In addition, some states require physicians to refer patients to FNPs, but most states have no requirement.

3. What is the Difference Between Family Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Practitioners?

A family nurse practitioner (FNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse who has completed specialized training to provide comprehensive care for families and children. These may include health promotion, disease prevention, acute illness management, chronic illness management, and end-of-life planning. The primary role of the FNP is to work closely with a physician or other members of the medical team to coordinate patient care across the continuum from prenatal through adult life.

4. Why Do Patients Visit A Family Nurse Practitioner?

Patients often visit FNPs because they want a provider who understands the unique needs of families. FNPs have received extensive training in pediatric care, family dynamics, and health promotion. They can help families manage common conditions, like asthma, diabetes, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as more complex issues, such as depression, substance abuse, sexual abuse, and domestic violence.

5. How Does an FNP Get Certified?

The FNP Certification Examination consists of three parts: 1) a written test; 2) a clinical skills exam, which requires a live demonstration of a skill performed on a standardized patient; and 3) a viva voce oral examination. The Commission administers the FNP Certification Examination on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The CAAHEP administers examinations at each level of certification, from associate to master. To receive a certificate, the candidate must pass all three parts of the examination.

6. What Should I Expect During My Appointment with an FNP?

During your appointment with an FNP, you will meet with them privately to discuss your health history and physical examination results, any abnormal findings, and your concerns. You may also have additional tests ordered, such as bloodwork or imaging studies. The FNP will review these results with you and answer any questions.

If you have a child under 18 years of age, the FNP will discuss the child’s health and development with you. If you have a child over 18 years of age, the FNP will discuss the same. The FNP will also explain the examination results to you and give you information about your further testing or treatment options.

7. What Is the Cost of Visiting An FNP?

Visit fees vary based upon the type of visit and the services provided. A fee is usually charged per visit, although some clinics charge a flat fee for a specific service. Some clinics offer a sliding scale, in which payments decrease as income increases. Patients need to make the payment at the time of the visit.

8. What Are the Skills Required to Become An FNP?

To become an FNP, candidates must complete a minimum of an Associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) and successfully pass the National Certification Exam for Family Nurse Practitioners. In addition, the candidate must have completed a minimum of one year of graduate coursework and experience in pediatric nursing. Candidates must also have current licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse in the state where they plan to practice.

9. Can Anyone Become An FNP?

Anyone can become an FNP, regardless of previous education or experience. However, FNPs must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or another appropriate field before taking the national certification examination.

10. Who Will Help Me Decide Which Clinic to Use?

The State Board of Nursing licenses clinics offering FNP services. These boards regulate nursing practice within the state and issue licenses to nurses. States differ in how they regulate the practice of family medicine, so you should check with your local board for the requirements in your state.

11. What Other Services Do Family Nurse Practitioners Offer?

FNP services include comprehensive care for patients and their families; coordination of care across the continuum from prenatal through adult life; patient education about health maintenance and prevention of disease; assessment of developmental, behavioral, emotional, and social problems; and end-of-life planning. FNPs also provide access to community resources, such as case management, nutrition counseling, referral to community mental health centers, and obtaining insurance coverage.

Final Words

Family Nurse Practitioners are highly skilled and have a deep understanding of how families function. They know how to communicate effectively with families, how to get the most out of limited resources, and how to make the best use of available medical technology. Families turn to FNPs when they need assistance with issues ranging from managing chronic conditions to caring for a newborn.