[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Surgical NPs have the highest NP salary at about $189,090, followed by cardiac NPs ($144,910) and PMHNPs ($141,110).[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NP demand is projected to grow 35% from 2024-2034, far exceeding the national average.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Align career goals with specialty by evaluating work settings and key responsibilities as well as salary.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/best-online-nurse-practitioner-programs/” target=”_blank”]Nurse practitioners (NPs)[/hen-ui-link] are one of the fastest-growing fields in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, NP jobs are projected to grow by 35% from 2024-2034, significantly faster than than all other U.S. occupations.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What can a nurse practitioner do? [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/” target=”_blank”]NPs provide primary and specialty care[/hen-ui-link] in areas such as geriatrics, cardiology, pediatrics, and mental health. Explore 20 popular NP careers, ranked by average salary.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Top 20 Career Options for Nurse Practitioners[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]1 | Surgical Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$189,090[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/surgical-nurse/how-to-become/”]Surgical NPs[/hen-ui-link] care for and treat patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. What can a nurse practitioner do in a surgical specialty? Surgical NPs have extensive training in operating rooms and assistants during surgical procedures. Surgical NPs can work in hospital inpatient units and outpatient clinics. They can also work in plastic surgery clinics.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess new patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Discuss surgical options[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administer medications[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Monitor patients’ vital signs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assist during surgical procedures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]2 | Cardiac Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$144,910[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/cardiac/how-to-become/”]Cardiac NPs[/hen-ui-link] provide care and treat patients with acute or chronic heart conditions. The top diagnoses treated by cardiac NPs are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hypertension[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Heart Failure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cardiac NPs assess patients’ health, prescribe medication (depending on their [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/np-practice-authority-by-state/”]practice authority[/hen-ui-link]), promote nonpharmacological treatments, and collaborate with the entire healthcare team. Cardiac NPs typically work in hospital inpatient units and outpatient clinics.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Perform therapeutic procedures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Develop treatment plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conduct and interpret stress tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Monitor postoperative cardiac patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess the risks of cardiovascular diseases[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]3 | Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$141,110[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/psychiatric/”]Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs)[/hen-ui-link] are in very high demand due to an increasing need for mental health services, according to the American Association for Nurse Practitioners (AANP). PMHNPs assess, diagnose and treat patients with psychiatric disorders and addiction. PMHNPs administer psychosocial assessments, prescribe medication in some states, and provide care for patients with mental health emergencies.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The top practice settings for PMHNPs are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Behavioral health/addiction clinics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychiatric mental health facilities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Private NP practices[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide physical and psychosocial assessments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medication in states with full-practice authority[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Deliver emergency psychiatric care and treatment[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]4 | Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$139,780[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Orthopedic NPs treat patients with musculoskeletal issues, including injuries to the bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissue. They can provide general services encompassing aspects of orthopedic care or specialize in sports medicine, orthopedic oncology, and metabolic disorders.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conduct physical exams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Order tests and prescribe medications (depending on their practice authority)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Analyze test results[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide rehabilitation services[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pain management[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]5 | Neonatal Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$136,650[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/best-online-nurse-practitioner-programs/”]Neonatal nurse practitioners (NNPs)[/hen-ui-link] are a specialized group of APRNs who work with high-risk infants in intensive care units (ICUs) and, in some cases, after being discharged from the hospital. NNPs also educate families on how to care for their preterm infants, infants born with genetic conditions, drug addiction, HIV infection and or other chronic conditions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NNPs primarily work in hospital inpatient units. The top conditions that NNPs treat are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Anemia[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Arrhythmias[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Acute lower respiratory infections[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Start and maintain IV lines[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Monitor specialized equipment[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Order and perform diagnostic tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Design treatment plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Guide and advise new parents[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]6 | Emergency Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$135,453[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]Emergency nurse practitioners (ENPs)[/hen-ui-link] treat patients with urgent medical needs. They primarily work in emergency rooms, but they can also work in urgent care centers, trauma centers, and ambulatory care centers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ENPs care for and treat acutely ill, pregnant, and injured patients of all ages. The top diagnoses treatment for ENPs are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Abdominal pain[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Acute sprains[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnose and treat patients with acute symptoms[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Access the patient’s physical symptoms[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Collect psychosocial and environmental information from patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educate patients and family members on proper care[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Perform minor procedures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]7 | Pediatric Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$135,160[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/pediatric-nurse/”]Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs)[/hen-ui-link] specialize in caring for newborns, infants, toddlers, adolescents, and young adults. They primarily focus on preventive care and managing acute and chronic pediatric conditions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The top practice settings for PNPs are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospital outpatient units[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospital inpatient units[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Private group practices[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The top diagnoses PNPs treat are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Abdominal pain[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Migraines[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Otitis media (ear infection)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess growth patterns[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Track developmental milestones[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educate parents about growth and development[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnose and treat illnesses[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medications (depending on practice authority)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Order immunizations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]8 | Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$135,160[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/pediatric-nurse/”]Pediatric acute care NPs (PACNPs)[/hen-ui-link] provide comprehensive care to children and adolescents experiencing critical, acute, and chronic conditions. They often work in inpatient and outpatient hospitals, emergency departments, and home care settings. PACNPs help meet children’s and adolescents’ specific physiological and psychological needs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide family-centered care[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conduct advanced physical examinations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Interpret lab and diagnostic tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Manage pediatric patients from admission to discharge[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Coordinate post-care options with families[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educate on preventative care and wellness[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]9 | Dermatology Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$134,910[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/dermatology-nurse/”]Dermatology NPs[/hen-ui-link] treat medical conditions or diseases related to the skin. While they work with all ages, dermatology NPs can specialize in specific age groups, such as children or older populations, or focus on certain diseases, like cancer.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Identify patients’ needs for dermatological care[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conduct comprehensive health histories[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Review prescribed medication[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Interpret lab studies and pathology reports[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Establish diagnosis[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Perform minor procedures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]10 | Nephrology Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$134,370[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/dialysis-nurse/”]Nephrology NPs[/hen-ui-link] care for and treat patients with kidney disease, injuries, diabetes, and hypertension. They also educate patients on improving kidney health and preventative care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nephrology NPs work in hospital inpatient units and outpatient clinics like dialysis centers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide comprehensive health assessments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Order treatments and tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Discuss nutrition and exercise[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide education to patients and families[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]11 | Hospice Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$130,300[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/hospice-nurse/”]Hospice NPs[/hen-ui-link] care for, treat, and comfort terminally ill patients. They also help support families by educating them on disease processes and managing symptoms. Hospice NPs prepare patients and families for end-of-life but also evaluate patients who no longer qualify for hospice care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical work settings include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Patient’s home[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing homes[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assisted living[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospice care centers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospitals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Advocate for patients and their families[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administer and translate diagnostic screenings[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Create, manage, and update patient care plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Perform physical exams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Monitor and record symptoms[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]12 | Oncology Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$130,300[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/oncology-nurse/”]Oncology NPs[/hen-ui-link] (ONPs) diagnose and treat patients with cancer. They play an instrumental role in coordinating patients’ care throughout their treatment. ONPs assist with surgeries. They also order treatment plans such as radiation and chemotherapy. ONPs educate patients and their families while managing patient outcomes.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While they work in various settings, ONPs are often employed by oncology departments focusing on medical, radiation, or surgical care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conduct physical exams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Create and manage treatment plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administer cancer therapies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medications (depending on practice authority)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Coordinate end-of-life care[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]13 | Acute Care Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$130,300[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/acute-care/”]Acute care nurse practitioners (ACNPs)[/hen-ui-link] typically describe acute care, pediatric acute care, and adult-gerontology acute care NPs. ACNPs care for and treat patients with acute conditions that may also be complex. These conditions range from minor injuries to cardiac issues like heart attacks and arrhythmias.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ACNPs work in various environments, including emergency rooms, urgent care clinics, and operating rooms. ACNPs, especially those working with the geriatric population, are extending their care into long-term care facilities and specialty clinics.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide physical exams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Record patient histories[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnose and treat patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medication and therapy treatments (depending on practice authority)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Stabilize patients in critical conditions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Collaborate with healthcare teams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]14 | Adult Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$128,440[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]Adult nurse practitioners (ANPs)[/hen-ui-link] evaluate and diagnose common, acute, and chronic health issues among adolescents, adults, and the geriatric community. ANPs often specialize in women’s health, cardiovascular care, and psychiatry, but they typically work with a broad population.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ANPs work in hospital outpatient and inpatient facilities and private practices.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educate patients on wellness practices[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnose and evaluate common, acute, and chronic health issues[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Counsel patients on diet, exercise, and physical therapy[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Evaluate test results and the impact of treatment[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]15 | Family Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$127,980[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/fnp/#salary”]Family nurse practitioners (FNPs)[/hen-ui-link] provide family-based health services focusing on various patients and preventative care. FNPs work with infants, adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]FNP work settings include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Community health centers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Private practices[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare systems[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Universities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the AANP, 68.7% of primary care certifications are FNPs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Maintaining patient records[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medications (depending on practice authority)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Develop treatment plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Treat acute and chronic illnesses and injuries[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]16 | Primary Care Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$126,030[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/primary-care-nurse/”]Primary care nurse practitioners (PCNPs)[/hen-ui-link] are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who work in various primary care settings. They care for individuals, families, and specialty patient groups, such as women and pediatrics.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the AANP, 87% of NPs are certified in primary care. PCNPs assess, diagnose and treat patients with acute and chronic conditions and educate them on preventative care and wellness.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]PCNPs collaborate with other health professional teams. They can also work independently, depending on their practice authority in their state.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess patients’ health[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administer preventative care, such as immunizations and vaccinations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnose and treat general health conditions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medications, including controlled substances[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]17 | Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$124,360[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/womens-health/”]Women’s health nurse practitioners (WHNPs)[/hen-ui-link] specialize in continuing and comprehensive healthcare services for women. They provide reproductive, gynecological, prenatal, and postpartum care. WHNPs focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and preventative services at healthcare centers specializing in women’s healthcare, family planning, and reproductive services.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Review preventative health needs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnose reproductive diseases[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prescribe medication/contraception (depending on practice authority)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Address fertility issues[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Screen for domestic violence and substance abuse[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]18 | Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$118,640[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/gerontology/#:~:text=Adult%2DGerontology%20Nurse%20Practitioner%20Career%20in%20Brief,acute%20care%20or%20primary%20care.”]Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners (AG-PCNPs)[/hen-ui-link] specialize in caring for adults and aging patients. AG-PCNPs treat patients with chronic illnesses and oncology and hematology patients.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The top practice settings for AG-PCNPs include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospital outpatient clinics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospital inpatient units[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Private group practice[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The top diagnoses AG-PCNPs treat are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Anxiety[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Abdominal pain[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hypertension[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Perform routine examinations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administer immunizations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provide one-on-one health counseling[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Develop and implement disease prevention plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]19 | Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$117,420[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioners (AG-ACNPs) treat adults and geriatric patients with acute, chronic, or critical conditions. They work in clinics, physicians’ offices, hospitals, retirement homes, and private practices.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]AG-ACNPs write prescriptions (depending on practice authority), interpret ECG monitoring, and assess patient responses to medications and treatment. The top diagnoses AG-ACNPs treat are:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hypertension[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Heart failure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diabetes[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Collect patient’s history information[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Evaluate patient symptoms[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess diagnostic information[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Determine treatment methods[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Track the condition of the patient[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]20 | Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$117,190[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/palliative-care-nurse/”]Palliative care NPs[/hen-ui-link] provide care and support to patients with terminal and non-terminal chronic conditions. Palliative care NPs commonly encounter patients with cancer, advanced heart disease, neurological disorders, and dementia. Palliative care begins at the diagnosis stage and continues into end-of-life care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Demand for palliative care NPs continues to grow due to patients living longer and needing extra support managing their conditions. Palliative care NPs typically find employment within hospitals, medical offices, patient homes, and inpatient hospice facilities. These professionals generally work with adults and geriatric patients.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Key Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Develop treatment plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Arrange comfort measures to reduce pain[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Execute multifaceted treatment plans[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assess and treat symptoms to promote wellness[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]FAQ: Places to Work as a Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What other careers can a nurse practitioner do?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse practitioners can earn specialty certification to practice in areas such as family, psychiatric-mental health, or pediatric NP. These certifications give NPs opportunities to specialize in their practice. NPs typically choose a specialty during their master of science or doctor of nursing practice program. They complete clinical hours in that specialty before pursuing certification.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the highest-paid NP field?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The highest-paid NP fields include surgical NPs, cardiac NPs, and psychiatric-mental health NPs. These NP specialties report average salaries of $140,000 or higher. Family nurse practitioners, also known as FNPs, are the most common NPs, and they earn an average salary of around $128,000, based on June 2025 Ziprecruiter data.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What type of NP is most in demand?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The most in-demand NPs are family nurse practitioners and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, according to AMN Healthcare. Other NP specialties include pediatrics, women’s health, adult-gerontology, and emergency care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduate-level NP programs provide specialized coursework and clinical placements to prepare NPs for their chosen specialty. NPs must also pass a national certification exam.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Where is the best place to work as a nurse practitioner?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/best-states-to-work-as-a-nurse-practitioner/”]best places to work as a nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-link] include Arizona, New Mexico, and Iowa, giving NPs full practice authority and prescriptive privileges. Other high-ranking places include New York, Oregon, Minnesota, and Washington, which rank high in NP salaries.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NPs considering where to work should weigh the earning potential, demand, and scope of practice for different places.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]