Nurse Practitioner (NP)

A nurse practitioner is a mid-level provider who provides patient care under the supervision of a licensed physician. NPs are qualified and authorized to do patient exams and some minor procedures and tests. NP practices are regulated at the state level, and state laws vary widely from state to state. In some states, NPs are legally required to practice under the supervision of a physician, and must have a licensed physician to sign off on their work. However, in other states, NPs practice independently of physicians, providing primary care, and may prescribe medications as such. Becoming a nurse practitioner could be an excellent choice for someone who wants to earn as much as a CRNA, and would also like to experience some continuity of care, and build relationships and rapport with returning patients over time.