A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse (R.N.) with additional specialized education. Education for nurse practitioners includes advanced nursing and selected medical studies as well as a preceptorship.

Who regulates their practice?
Nurse practitioners practice under rules and regulations developed by state boards of nursing. In addition, nurse practitioners may be nationally certified. Nurse practitioners have authority to prescribe medications.

How does a nurse care compare to a physician’s care?
Nurse practitioners care for basically healthy women with typical health care needs. They focus on well being and preventing health problems. Physicians are trained to treat complex health problems, which may require complicated treatment or surgery.

The high quality of care provided by nurse practitioners is well known. Consumer and government studies have shown that nurse practitioners are skilled clinicians and patient educators. More over, consumers value the nurse practitioner’s sensitivity to patient’s needs and their ability to decrease the mystery surrounding health care.

Answering your questions, caring for your reproductive health needs
Nurse practitioners believe in your right to know and make informed choices about your health. A nurse practitioner’s commitment to you:

• Quality care
• Confidentiality
• Time to listen
• Answers to your questions

When would I see a nurse practitioner?
Nurse practitioners are qualified to provide you with many health services—including the treatment of minor illnesses—and will refer you to a physician if a serious health problem is discovered. Ask your nurse practitioner for:

• Physical exams and health counseling
• Care for reproductive health problems and concerns
• Pap smear screening and follow-up
• Contraceptive care
• Pregnancy testing and pre-natal care
• Evaluation and treatment of common infections and sexually transmitted diseases
• Screening and referral for other health problems