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'''Acute Care Nurse Practitioner''' (''pronunciation: a-kyoot kair nurs prak-ti-shuh-ner'') is a specialized [[nurse practitioner]] who provides care to patients suffering from acute illnesses or injuries. The term "acute" refers to a condition that is severe and sudden in onset, which can occur in all age groups and across the full spectrum of healthcare settings.

==Etymology==
The term "acute care nurse practitioner" is derived from the medical term "acute care", which refers to short-term treatment for a severe injury or episode of illness, an urgent medical condition, or during recovery from surgery. The term "nurse practitioner" refers to a registered nurse who has completed advanced education (usually a master's or doctoral degree) and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including chronic illnesses.

==Roles and Responsibilities==
An Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) is responsible for assessing patients, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, diagnosing illness, prescribing medication, and formulating treatment strategies. They often work in hospitals, urgent care centers, and other acute settings. They may also perform procedures, such as suturing, wound care, and minor surgical procedures.

==Related Terms==
* [[Nurse Practitioner]]: A registered nurse who has completed advanced education and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions.
* [[Acute Care]]: A branch of secondary health care where a patient receives active but short-term treatment for a severe injury or episode of illness, an urgent medical condition, or during recovery from surgery.
* [[Chronic Care]]: Long-term care of individuals with chronic illnesses or conditions.
* [[Primary Care]]: Day-to-day healthcare given by a health care provider.

==Education and Certification==
To become an ACNP, a registered nurse must first earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, then a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a focus on acute care. After completing their education, they must pass a national certification exam to become certified as an ACNP.

==See Also==
* [[Family Nurse Practitioner]]
* [[Pediatric Nurse Practitioner]]
* [[Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner]]
* [[Women's Health Nurse Practitioner]]

[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]
[[Category:Nursing]]
[[Category:Healthcare Occupations]]

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