Sharing the NAPNAP Position Statement on Primary and Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Roles
The National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) recognizes the crucial role of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) in addressing the healthcare needs of children over the past 50 years. PNPs, with their extensive training, certification, and licensure, are uniquely qualified to provide high-quality care in both primary and acute care settings.
The roles of the primary care PNP and acute care PNP are distinct and separate, defined by patient acuity rather than the health care setting.
Primary Care PNPs focus on preventive care, health maintenance, and management of episodic and chronic illnesses in children. They are trained to enhance child health outcomes, support growth and development, maintain holistic health and foster strong relationships with children and families.
Acute Care PNPs specialize in the care of critically ill or injured children. The training acute care PNPs receive allows them to manage the care of children with complex medical conditions or serious injuries that demand high-intensity interventions to restore or maintain their patients’ health.
Access the position statement, published in the September/October 2024 edition of NAPNAP’s Journal of Pediatric Health Care.
