Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
The Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) program prepares nurses to deliver primary care to women throughout the life span. The program is based on in-depth knowledge of theory, pathophysiology, research utilization, pharmacotherapeutics, and clinical decision-making skills. Program emphasis is on the primary care of women, including reproductive-gynecologic health. The curriculum meets the guidelines for education established by both the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, and is the only master’s program accredited by the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. Graduates are prepared to take the national Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam.
Women’s health is more than simply reproductive care. Women have unique needs across the life span and are uniquely situated. This context creates ethical tension. For example, some women must choose between their own exercise regimen and an activity for their children. Others may be suffering depression or migraines, both conditions disproportionately affecting women, and yet also serve as the primary caregivers for parents or other elderly relatives. Understanding how women are situated throughout the lifespan may enable the nurse practitioner to anticipate ethical issues that arise in caring for women.