MAJOR DUTIES: Provides independent primary comprehensive and therapeutic health care services, to include examining, assessing, diagnosing and treating patients in the OB-GYN Clinic. Identifies and manages, according to outlined protocols, own case load of antepartum and postpartum patients, and those with gynecologic problems; counsels on menopausal, infertility, contraceptive and related health concerns. Sees unscheduled walk-in patients at specified times for identification and management of acute minor gynecologic or obstetric illnesses. Sees patients with abnormal pap screens and performs colposcopic evaluation. Obtains and records a problem oriented health history, to include chief complaint, a history of present illness, past medical history, family history and review of systems. Performs a systematic physical examination and interprets abnormal and normal findings. Performs routine gynecologic examinations, to include abdominal palpation, breast examination, and pelvic examinations, Pap smears, and laboratory specimens to rule out vaginal infections. Orders and interprets related laboratory and diagnostic texts. Discriminates between normal and abnormal findings in order to make a nursing diagnosis regarding physical, emotional, or social disabilities. Develops a problem list if indicated, implementing a therapeutic plan for each problem. Prescribes medications approved by the Therapeutic Agents Board. Provides teaching to patients and their families regarding the disease process, diagnostic tests; the therapeutic regimen including medication, diet and follow-up care; methods of adapting medication and treatment to current life styles; pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum; methods of contraception; infertility; menopause; and prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. Provides counseling to patients for prevention of illness and maintenance of health, in order to assist patients in attaining physical, mental and social well being. Collaborates with physicians regarding patient management, evaluating and revising therapeutic plans. Refers high risk, unstable, or extremely complex patient to the physicians. Develops a therapeutic environment which allows patients and families to have confidence in the practitioner. Plans with other health care professionals and agencies involved with providing services to patients and their families and coordinates the care provided. Initiates and receives referrals. Documents in patients record all observations, plans, treatments, teaching, and other important findings. Identifies those components of the care plan which may be appropriately delegated to other nursing personnel. Available as a consultant to other professional and paraprofessional staff throughout the institution on womens health issues. Supervises and instructs students in clinical experiences. Coordinates or conducts in-service education programs for other health care professionals. Serves as advisor/member of committees as needed. Participates in ongoing peer review with other nurse practitioners. Develops protocols in collaboration with physicians. Involved in continuous professional self growth through attendance at seminars and classes and by subscription to professional journals. Initiates emergency care as appropriate. Performs other duties as assigned.