APNs are among a group of healthcare providers described as advanced practice providers (APPs).
Although they are notphysicians, they perform many medical activities typically performed by a physician.
Responsibilities of an APN
APNs are a higher level of nursing professionals.
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They can perform many of the tasks that were once the sole domain of medical doctors (physicians).
They work in many healthcare options, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and long-term care facilities.
Some also work in educational or healthcare policy configs.
According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, there are approximately 385,000 NPs in the United States.
NPs operate with greater autonomy than RNs.
Licensing requirements vary from state to state.
Certification is available through the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Licensing occurs at the state level and falls under specific state laws.
Nurse Anesthetists
Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) provideanesthesiaand pain management services.
Certification is available from the National Board of Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists.
Licensure requirements vary by state.
Differences Between APNs and Other Healthcare Professionals
APNs are essential healthcare providers with specific roles and responsibilities.
An APN holds either an MSN or DNP degree, both of which are non-medical degrees.
APNs vs.
Physician Assistants
Physician assistants are medical professionals with master’s degrees and national certifications.
They also complete graduate-level medical studies, often side-by-side with MDs in training.
However, their postgraduate training is compressed into three years.
APNs vs.
While RNs follow instructions from a physician, APNs can make a great many decisions on their own.
APNs can also coordinate and supervise an entire medical team.
American Nurses Association.Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
American Association of Nurse Practitioners.Nurse practitioner profession grows to 385,000 strong.
American Association of Nurse Practitioners.State practice environment.
American College of Nurse-Midwives.Full practice authority.
American Medical Association.State law chart: certified professional midwife scope of practice.
American Association of Nurse Anesthesiologists.Scope of nurse anesthesia practice.
National Institutes of Health.Nursing at the NIH Clinical Center: clinical nursing specialists.
National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists.What is a CNS?
American Medical Association.What’s the difference between physicians and nurse practitioners?
American Academy of Physician Associates.What is a PA?
Bureau of Labor Statistics.Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
