Teamwork

摘要

Working with doctors and independently, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are two essential components of a medical care team. By Rear Adm. Joyce Johnson, D.O. Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) make significant contributions to our nation's health. They are probably best known for their work in primary care, but their areas of responsibility have expanded to include almost every specialty. NPs and PAs provide a complete range of primary care, including preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services. They can order and interpret laboratory tests and X-rays and write prescriptions for medications. They also perform many procedures such as removing warts and suturing minor wounds.