Training and licensing
Every nurse practitioner starts as a registered nurse, then completes a graduate degree (a master's or a doctorate) focused on diagnosing and treating patients. NPs must pass a national board certification exam and hold a state license. In Washington, the license is called ARNP (Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner).
What an NP can do in Washington
- Perform physical exams and annual checkups
- Diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries
- Order and interpret lab tests and imaging
- Prescribe medications
- Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure
- Refer you to specialists when you need one
Washington is a "full practice" state, which means nurse practitioners do not need a physician to supervise their work.
How is an NP different from an MD?
Physicians (MD or DO) and nurse practitioners go through different training paths, but in primary care they do much of the same work. Family nurse practitioners are trained to care for patients of all ages, from newborns to older adults. When a problem needs a specialist, your NP refers you, just as a physician would.