This paper examines the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) role by drawing on two peer-reviewed research articles and one opinion piece. It reviews findings on nurse practitioner job satisfaction, noting that FNPs are generally satisfied with their autonomy and role challenges, though less so with professional growth and collegiality. The paper also explores the unique demands FNPs face when serving military families during deployment, highlighting the need for flexibility and dynamic care. Finally, it underscores the importance of collaborative, family-centered practice, identifying the FNP's core functions as educating, diagnosing, treating, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
This paper focuses on the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) role, drawing on three sources — two peer-reviewed research articles and one opinion article — to explore how FNPs function across different care settings. From the outset, it is important to note that the role an FNP plays in meeting the healthcare needs of the family unit cannot be overstated. In the execution of their roles, FNPs typically collaborate with various professionals, including, but not limited to, primary care physicians.
To understand how Family Nurse Practitioners thrive in their respective roles and how motivated they are across various care settings, it is helpful to review past research on FNP job satisfaction. In one such study, De Milt, Fitzpatrick, and McNulty (2010), authors of Nurse Practitioners' Job Satisfaction and Intent to Leave Current Positions, the Nursing Profession, and the Nurse Practitioner Role as a Direct Care Provider, found that sampled nurse practitioners were largely satisfied with the autonomy their role offered, as well as with the benefits and challenges associated with their positions.
On the other hand, those sampled indicated that "they were minimally satisfied with professional growth, intrapractice partnership, and collegiality." This research article is particularly relevant to the subject matter of this discussion, as "the majority of NPs surveyed reported they were nationally certified as family NPs (FNPs)." The study indicates that, in general — save for a few areas — NPs are satisfied with their roles. This is encouraging news for those considering a career in this specialty field. More information on nurse practitioner roles and career pathways is available through major nursing organizations.
"Unique FNP challenges supporting military mothers during deployment"
"FNP core duties: educate, diagnose, treat, and collaborate"
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