A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has advanced education & clinical training that qualifies her to provide direct patient care in a variety of settings and specialty areas. Nurse practitioners gather histories, perform examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose, prescribe medications or other necessary treatment modalities, and provide follow-up care in acute and chronic illnesses. Nurse practitioners also provide routine health maintenance physicals and work in collaboration with a physician or group of physicians who are readily available to provide advice and medical expertise as needed.