What Is an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner?

As the average life expectancy continues to grow, more and more people are living with chronic health conditions. This is where adult-gerontology nurse practitioners (AGNPs) come in! AGNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who provide care to adults across the lifespan, from young adults to older adults.

In this blog post, we'll be discussing what AGNPs are, the two different types of AGNPs (acute care and primary care), and some of the unique aspects of this nursing specialty.

What Is an AGNP?

Adult-gerontology nurse practitioners (AGNPs) provide care for adults and the elderly. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and primary care offices. AGNPs are prepared to care for patients with a wide range of chronic illnesses and acute health concerns including:

• High blood pressure

• Heart disease

• Cancer

• Diabetes

• Obesity

AGNPs collaborate with other health care providers to provide comprehensive care for their patients and improve the lives of the elderly. In addition to diagnosing and treating illness, AGNPs also focus on health promotion and disease prevention.

They may order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and provide patient education. AGNPs must be licensed as registered nurses and have completed an accredited graduate-level program. AGNPs are also required to pass a national certification exam.

The Different Types of AGNPs

There are two different types of AGNPs: those who specialize in primary care and those who specialize in acute care. Both types of AGNPs are prepared to provide comprehensive care to their patients, but the scope of their practice may differ depending on their specialty.

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners (AGPCNPs) often serve as a patient's primary point of contact with the healthcare system. They provide preventive care services, manage chronic conditions, and coordinate care with other providers.

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (AGACNPs) often work in hospitals or other settings where they provide care for patients with acute illnesses or injuries such as:

• Pneumonia

• Heart attack

• Stroke

AGACNPs often work collaboratively with a team of specialists to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

The Unique Aspects of Caring for Aging Adults

Caring for adults can be both rewarding and challenging. AGNPs must be prepared to deal with the unique aspects of caring for this population including:

• Changes in health status due to the aging process

• Multiple chronic health conditions

• Complex social needs

• End-of-life care

• Unique knowledge of health and wellness for senior citizens

AGNPs must have a thorough understanding of normal adult development and the changes that occur with aging. They must also be familiar with common chronic illnesses that affect adults and the treatments available. In addition, AGNPs must be skilled in communicating with older adults and their families. It's for this reason that a nurse practitioner's mental health and well-being are so important.

How to Become an AGNP

Acute care nurse practitioners (AGACNPs) focus on the care of adult patients who are acutely ill with serious medical conditions. AGACNPs typically work in hospital settings, providing care to patients who have been admitted for a short stay.

In contrast, primary care nurse practitioners (AGPCNPs) provide comprehensive care to adult patients across the continuum of care. AGPCNPs typically work in clinics or private practices, and they may also provide home health care or nursing home care.

Both AGACNPs and AGPCNPs must complete a graduate-level program in nursing and obtain certification from a national specialty board. An Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (AGPCNP C) is required for AGPCNPs, and an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (AGACNP C) is required for AGACNPs.

Endnote

There is a great need for primary care providers who are prepared to care for the aging population. Adult-gerontology nurse practitioners are uniquely qualified to meet the needs of this growing population. If you are interested in providing care for older adults, consider becoming an AGNP.