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About AGNP

Why become an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner?

There is high demand for NPs with the education and certification to provide health care to adolescents through adults. Career opportunities include positions at community health centers, private practice offices, long-term health facilities, hospice centers, correctional facilities, intensive care units, emergency departments, surgical units, and more.

As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) you will be positioned for leadership roles in the nursing profession and can anticipate enhanced flexibility and independence.

What skills and knowledge will I develop as an AGNP?

You will graduate the AGNP program prepared to:

  • Perform comprehensive and focused physical examinations
  • Diagnose and treat common acute illnesses and injuries
  • Manage chronic health problems
  • Order and interpret diagnostic tests
  • Prescribe medications and therapies
  • Perform procedures such as suturing, biopsies, and chest tube insertions
  • Educate and counsel patients and their families regarding healthy lifestyles and health care options

Specialization:

Acute Care vs. Primary Care

AGNP students may specialize in acute care or primary care in preparation for board certification.  The specialization you select will influence whether you practice in a hospital setting or a community or private practice setting.

To better understand the distinctions in these settings and how they can also overlap, we encourage you to review the Acute Care and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Practice statement by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties.

Acute Care Board Certification

American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
AACN Certification Corporation

Primary Care Board Certification

American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
AANP Certification Board