Niko Lazarewicz, Nurse Practitioner

I really enjoy helping people. I always have. I went into nursing because I wanted a career where I would have the opportunity to help people every day. I also love science, so a job which combines science with the opportunity to help others seemed like a perfect fit.

I was also drawn to nursing because I am passionate about patient advocacy. This is one the most important duties of a nurse. I chose to take my education and training further to become a nurse practitioner because I wanted the ability to make decisions for my patients by gaining the knowledge to diagnose and treat illnesses. I could help patients better manage their health by taking the time to explain and answer their questions.

I view the role of the nurse practitioner as an important part of the care team. I work alongside physicians, other nurses and support staff to give the best care possible to our patients. At the Center for Primary Care in Vacaville we have an excellent team. I am very fortunate to work alongside such great people every day.

The best part of being involved in the primary care setting is seeing a great variety of patients with a wide spectrum of illnesses. There is an opportunity to form relationships with your patients over time in primary care. I have known some of patients for years and having that sort of rapport is really special.

Being a nurse practitioner is not just a "punch-in-then-punch-out" job for me. I strive to do the best I can for each patient at every encounter, to treat someone in a way that honors the dignity and infinite value of every human being.

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my incredible wife and three kids. When time permits, I love running, playing basketball and coaching youth sports.