Nurse Practitioners have provided excellent health care in the United States for more than 45 years. They practice under the rules and regulations of the states in which they are licensed.

In the state of Washington, an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) must first obtain either a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Masters in Nursing (MSN). An ARNP must pass national board exams before applying for certification in this state. They also maintain continuing education records required to renew their license every 2 years.

Nurse Practitioners diagnose and treat a wide range of health problems. In addition to being top-notch healthcare providers, Nurse Practitioners deliver a unique blend of nursing and medical care. An ARNP in the state of Washington may work with or without the collaboration of a physician.

Among the many services that ARNPs provide, they:

- Order, perform and interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x-rays

- Diagnose and treat acute and chronic conditions

- Prescribe medications and other treatments

Nurse Practitioners spend time counseling patients. Nurse Practitioners help their patients learn how their actions affect their health and well-being, focusing on the whole person and educating their patients on the effects those problems will have on them and their loved ones.