What is the difference between a doctor's assistant and a nurse?

I mean a physician's assistant that can actually see patients and write prescriptions.

A PA is an RN who can treat and write prescriptions in lieu of the doctor. it takes additional training.

An Assistant would help out with more administrative type of tasks and does not need any formal training, although a preferance may be given for someone with a college education and/or experience in a healthcare environment. A Nurse is actually medically educated and trained health care professional and assists the doctor with the treatment and care of patients. There is set criteria for the education and training of a Nurse.

A physicians assistant, PA, is a masters trained person. They are trained to diagnose and treat illness and accidents. Their services can be billed to a client.

An RN is either a ASN or a BSN trained person licensed to perform NURSING functions. Their services are a routine part of care.

A NURSE PRACTITIONER is a masters trained nurse who can do much of the same as a PA - BUT in most states they can have an independent practice -(a PA can NOT). Their services can be billed to a client.