Nurse Practitioner A registered nurse who has advanced education and clinical training in a health care specialty area NPs serve as the regular health care providers for children and adults during health and illness In order to provide complete health care, Nurse Practitioners obtain medical histories and perform physical examinations; diagnose and treat acute and chronic health problems; prescribe medications and other treatments Nurse Practitioners work with people of all ages and their families, providing information people need to make informed decisions about their health care and lifestyle choices (American Academy of Nurse Practitioners pamphlet)