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BASIC DESCRIPTION
The endoscopy nurse practitioner provides primary care to those patients undergoing endoscopic procedures. Aside from performing or assisting in endoscopy, they also provide post-procedure follow-up and patient education, and discharge patients once stable.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Registered nurse preparation, Nurse Practitioner certification, and Basic Life Support/Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification are required; acute clinical experience as a registered nurse is also required; certification as a gastroenterology nurse and training in gastroenterology medicine are required in most job positions.
CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED
■ Excellent assessment and analytical skills
■ Ability to sit or stand in the endoscopy suite for an extended period of time and ability to physically assist patients with lifting, bending, pushing, or pulling
■ Strong leadership and organizational skills
■ Advanced knowledge related to the physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacological management of the gastrointestinal system
■ Ability to effectively communicate with patients and with members of the interprofessional team
RELATED WEB SITE AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION
■ American Board for Gastroenterology Nurses (www.cgrn.com)