Neonatal Nurse Practitioner vs. Registered Nurse: Key Differences

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) vs. Nurse

Education

* NNP: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a specialization in neonatal nursing

* Nurse: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree

Training

* NNP: Complete a two-year graduate-level program in neonatal nursing, which includes advanced coursework and clinical training in the care of neonates

* Nurse: Complete a four-year undergraduate program in nursing, which includes general coursework and clinical training in various nursing specialties

Scope of Practice

* NNP: Provide comprehensive care to neonates, including:

* Performing physical examinations

* Diagnosing and treating medical conditions

* Prescribing medications

* Providing nutritional support

* Administering respiratory therapy

* Providing emotional support to families

* Nurse: Provide nursing care to neonates, including:

* Monitoring vital signs

* Administering medications

* Providing hygiene care

* Feeding neonates

* Assisting with medical procedures

Certification

* NNP: Must be certified by the National Certification Corporation (NCC) in order to practice

* Nurse: May be certified in a variety of nursing specialties, but this is not required in order to practice

Salaries

* NNP: Average salary of $101,550 per year

* Nurse: Average salary of $75,330 per year

Demand for Practitioners

* Both NNPs and nurses are in high demand due to the increasing number of hospitalized neonates