Collaborative integration plan for the role of nurse practitioners in Canada, 2011-2015 : Plan d'intégration collaboratif du rôle des infirmières et infirmiers praticiens au Canada, 2011-2015

Nurse practitioners (NP) have been in the health-care system for more than 50 years, with the early NPs providing care in rural and remote areas. By the 1970s, interest in the NP role increased and more education programs for NPs started. NPs provide direct care to people of all ages, families, groups and communities across the continuum of care. They treat common illnesses, order tests and prescribe medications. They also focus on educating patients and their families about living healthy, preventing diseases and managing their illnesses. In essence, NPs bring together the knowledge needed to diagnose and treat illnesses with the values, skills and knowledge of nursing. They are part of a team, collaborating with clinical nurse specialists, registered nurses, doctors, social workers and others to provide quality health care.