Neonatal nurse practitioner

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

A Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in the care of newborn infants, particularly those who are critically ill or require special medical attention.

Pronunciation

Neonatal: /ˌniːəˈneɪtəl/ Nurse: /nəːs/ Practitioner: /prækˈtɪʃ(ə)nə/

Etymology

The term "neonatal" comes from the Greek words "neos" (new) and "natal" (pertaining to birth or origin). "Nurse" is derived from the Latin word "nutrire" which means to suckle or nourish. "Practitioner" is derived from the Latin word "practicare" which means to perform or carry out.

Role and Responsibilities

The primary role of a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner is to provide specialized care for newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Their responsibilities include performing physical examinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and administering medications. They also provide education and support to families during this challenging time.

Education and Training

To become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, one must first become a registered nurse (RN) and then complete a master's or doctoral degree in nursing. This is followed by specialized training in neonatal care, often through a post-master's certificate program. All NNPs must be certified by a nationally recognized certifying body, such as the National Certification Corporation (NCC).