Getting Familiar With the Nurse Practitioner Role: Reflection From an International Practicum

Abstract

This is a reflection on a 2-month international practicum at the Bassett Medical Center as part of my elective course during my final semester of graduate school at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences. The transition from being a registered nurse (RN) to being a competent nurse practitioner (NP) presents challenges such as adapting to the new role as an experienced RN to an aspiring NP, learning about the role of autonomy, and new responsibility for patients, and fully executing the NP role. This means that becoming familiar with the role of an NP with a focus in cardiology is, in my case, of particular importance. To overcome this uncertainty, I chose an international clinical placement in a country with experienced NPs to build up knowledge for transitioning from RN to NP, professional development, and self-assurance.