Advanced practice roles for nurses in tomorrow's healthcare systems

Advanced practice nurses (APNs) have traditionally been a diverse group in terms of titles, education, credentials, and roles. The classification of APN usually encompasses the nurse practitioner (NP), certified nurse midwife (CNM), certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), and clinical nurse specialist (CNS). NP, CRNA, and CNM roles have been more clearly delineated than the CNS roles. In light of healthcare reform, the CNS roles have been critically reviewed and analyzed. Attempts have been made to clarify responsibilities and outcomes, and to quantify the financial impact of this role. In this article, seven APN roles clearly defined in terms of minimal qualifications and competencies critical to accomplishment of the duties, responsibilities, and expected outcomes are presented. Comparison of competency requirements are also presented. The roles presented are designed to facilitate healthcare institutions in meeting the demands for serving patients with increasingly complex needs, as well as cost-containment goals.