NP Scope: Volume 1

How can dermatology providers help patients manage the psychological implications of visible skin conditions that can affect body image and self- confidence, such as acne, rosacea, and psoriasis?

Dr. Victor Czerkasij Doctor of NP, DCNP, FNP-C, CWCP, MSN, MA Faculty Spotlight

Fitzgerald Health Education Associates

Reassuring perspective! Allow the patient to express their experience and respond with “So, what I am hearing you say…” with a summary of their own words. That goes a long way in helping the patient relax. I add, “This isn’t anything I haven’t seen before, and with our current technologies, I am confident you are going to greatly improve.” Moving my stool directly in front of the patient, often taking both hands in mine, and by speaking clearly and firmly, they realize this journey will not be alone. People have told me years later that they remember that moment and have never forgotten it.

Victor Czerkasij

Do you approach skincare recommendations differently for diverse skin tones?

Skin Deep, Global Reach

Fitzgerald Health Education Associates

When Margaret Fitzgerald invited me to join FHEA around 2007, one of the earliest talks I developed was “Dermatology Issues in Skin of Color.” That moved to a cover article around 2011 for the Nurse Practitioner Journal (NPJ) which was well received at the time. I have been fully invested in mentoring NP students in the broad differences and important nuances of Black, White, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American skin and cultural practices. While we look to treat everyone with the same respect and dignity deserved by a fellow human being, in skin practice, there are emphases and distinctions that are quite significant. Learning how skin responds to procedures—is it likely to keloid? Lose or gain pigmentation? What about skin cancer and its location? Fears over medication? Hair styling? Thoughts about natural or homeopathic approaches? Development of psoriasis or eczema? You must learn it all and usually the best way is listening and asking questions in a polite, humble manner.

Victor Czerkasij, Doctor of NP, DCNP, FNP-C, CWCP, MSN, MA, unpacks the fundamentals of skin health and discusses recent advancements in his scope of practice.

What does a typical day look like for you in your practice?

Fitzgerald Health Education Associates

Victor Czerkasij

Want to learn more from Victor?

7 AM finds me reviewing and making decisions on pathology reports, culture and sensitivities, and a quick glance at corporate emails. Around 55 patients are scheduled each working day, with three incredible MAs who have learned to think like me. While in the room, they are working on my notes, billing, and prescribing. I see annual visits, follow-ups, many new patients looking to get established, and challenging doctor referrals. At 1 PM, we are off to the races until 4:45, at which time we handle more phone calls till 5 PM. I do not take work home!

You were recently recognized by the Ukrainian government for excellence in humanitarian wartime service. What specific needs do you see in the populations of Kyiv and L’viv, and how did you address them using limited resources?

Check out the Dermatology Across the Lifespan course , available now on demand!

Fitzgerald Health Education Associates

A group called “The Second Front” refers to the doctors, nurses, and medics working tirelessly for over three years under enormously difficult conditions stabilizing and repairing the wounded soldiers and civilians. Each trip reveals a new and poignant need. Where are the counseling services during time of war? How can I arrange for more medications that can relieve the human suffering I have seen? Trying to educate the government on the advanced nursing profession as a DNP results in some amazing conversations: a nurse that can advance to serve in a medical leadership position blows their [the Ukrainian government] ]minds. Surprisingly, many medical doctors get it, and I hope it will result in some changes in due time.

Victor Czerkasij