This concentration provides a broad theoretical and research foundation in advanced concepts of parent, child and adolescent nursing. Clinical experiences occur across a variety of settings and focus on providing care to well and ill children. PNPs are qualified to perform complete physical exams, take health histories, diagnose and treat common acute minor illnesses or injuries, order and interpret lab results and x-rays, manage stable chronic illness, counsel clients and provide health education. Many may prescribe medications according to state law.

Coursework aligned with clinical experiences specific to specialization focus provides the knowledge, skills, and values inherent in the development of clinical excellence as a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP). Students have course assignments and clinical experiences specific to the primary care area. PNP students are precepted by pediatricians or PNPs with clinical experiences in a variety of primary care settings. The concentration consists of advanced clinical practice and nursing science, built on a core of pathophysiology, pharmacology, and family-centered care.? The total concentration is 45 semester hours.

Primary care?PNPs offer a variety of services including:

  • Provide health maintenance care for children, including well-child examinations
  • Perform routine developmental screenings
  • Diagnose and treat common childhood illnesses
  • Provide anticipatory guidance regarding common child health concerns
  • Provide childhood immunizations
  • Perform school physicals
  • Primary care PNP's may practice in a variety of pediatric specialty areas, such as cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, and many others.