Which is typically NOT within the scope of practice for Nurse Practitioners?

The role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, primarily focused on delivering patient care and promoting health. Diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, and providing patient education are core functions that fall within their scope of practice. NPs are trained to assess patients, develop treatment plans, and manage care effectively.

However, performing major surgeries is typically not within the scope of practice for NPs. Surgery generally requires specialized training and is usually performed by surgeons or other healthcare professionals who have completed extensive surgical residency programs. While NPs may be involved in the surgical process in supporting roles or may assist in minor procedures, they do not possess the training necessary to perform major surgeries independently. This distinction highlights the level and type of training required for various healthcare roles and the importance of collaboration within the healthcare team to ensure patient safety and effective care.