This book is a Fast Facts for students considering the NP track, NP students, and new NPs - a quick all-in-one read that features what you "really need to know"about NP education and practice. It incorporates humor and real-life examples, useful tips, comparative salary tables, and other ready to access resources, such as professional organizations, networks, associations, and websites. Included is discussion on the history of the nurse practitioner (NP) role and the coming practice degree, the DNP. It contains insight coming directly from experts in the field. Key Features The "all-in-one," fast facts for potential or current NP students and newly practicing NPs Explores reasons to become a nurse practitioner Clarifies NP education hurdles: from choosing the right program to selecting the best clinical preceptor, and more Offers suggestions on how to survive the first year of practice Discuses contractual relationships with institutions, doctors and related health providers Outlines legal/malpractice issues Explores the DNP degree as the coming mandate for NP practice Features personal stories from the author and colleagues in a straight-from-the-shoulder style Includes check lists to facilitate important decision making, and charts/tables with "hot topics" or key elements