Nurse Practitioners - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, nurse practitioners:

Have a high level of social interaction. They constantly talk to patients, doctors, nurses, and other medical staff.
Communicate daily by phone, e-mail, and in person. They occasionally write letters and memos.
Usually work as part of a team of medical professionals.
Have a high level of responsibility for the health and safety of others.
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Are often placed in conflict situations in which others, especially patients and family members, may be rude or angry.
Are responsible for the work done by other medical staff.

Always work indoors.
Are exposed to diseases and infections on a daily basis.
Regularly wear surgical gloves and masks to protect themselves.
Work very near others. They must come into close physical contact with patients during examinations.

Must be very exact and accurate when performing the job. Patient health depends on their ability to diagnose and treat.
Often repeat the same mental and physical tasks throughout patient appointments.
Make decisions daily that substantially impact patients and their families. They usually don't consult others before making a decision.
Set some of their daily tasks and goals independently.
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Work in a moderately competitive atmosphere where daily deadlines must be met.

Generally work a set schedule.
May work 40 hours a week or more.
May be ""on-call,"" which means available to work on short notice to handle emergencies.