What does an advanced practice registered nurse do?

What is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse?

An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) is a registered nurse (RN) who has completed additional education and clinical training beyond that required for basic nursing practice. APRNs have advanced knowledge and skills in a specific area of nursing practice, such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse midwife, or certified registered nurse anesthetist. They are licensed by their state nursing board and have prescriptive authority, meaning they can prescribe medications and order diagnostic tests.

APRNs have a greater level of autonomy and responsibility than RNs, and they provide more complex care to patients. They are able to assess, diagnose, and manage patient care independently or in collaboration with physicians, depending on the state’s regulations. APRNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, and they often provide primary care services to patients. They play a critical role in improving access to healthcare and in addressing the shortage of primary care providers in many parts of the United States.

What does an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse do?

Advanced practice registered nurses are an essential component of modern healthcare systems. They are authorized to perform many of the same duties as physicians, such as diagnosing and treating patients, prescribing medications, and ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests. As the demand for healthcare services continues to grow, the role of APRNs will become increasingly important in meeting the needs of patients and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care.

Duties and Responsibilities
The specific duties and responsibilities of advanced practice registered nurses can vary depending on their specialty, but generally, their responsibilities may include:

• Assessing and diagnosing patients: APRNs are authorized to perform a comprehensive assessment of patients, which includes taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests such as lab work, X-rays, and MRIs. APRNs also use their clinical knowledge and expertise to diagnose medical conditions, and they collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans.
• Developing treatment plans: APRNs use their clinical knowledge and expertise to develop and implement individualized treatment plans for patients. These plans may include prescribing medications, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and developing and implementing care plans that include lifestyle modifications and other non-pharmacologic treatments. APRNs also work with patients and their families to provide education about their health conditions and the importance of following their treatment plans.
• Providing patient education: APRNs are responsible for educating patients and their families about their health conditions, including how to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and maintain overall health and wellness. They use evidence-based guidelines and other resources to provide patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.
• Prescribing medications: APRNs have the authority to prescribe medications, including controlled substances, in all 50 states. They work closely with pharmacists to ensure that patients receive the appropriate medications at the correct dosages. APRNs also monitor patients for potential side effects and drug interactions.
• Managing chronic conditions: APRNs are often responsible for managing patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. They use evidence-based guidelines to develop and implement care plans that help patients manage their conditions and prevent complications. APRNs also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including social workers and dietitians, to provide comprehensive care to patients.
• Performing procedures: APRNs are authorized to perform certain medical procedures such as suturing, administering injections, and conducting minor surgical procedures. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure that these procedures are performed safely and effectively.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals: APRNs work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients. They communicate effectively with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. APRNs also participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care and develop treatment plans.
• Advocating for patients: APRNs are often involved in advocating for their patients' rights and working to improve the quality of care provided to patients. They may work with healthcare organizations and policymakers to improve access to healthcare services and promote policies that support patient-centered care.

Types of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses
There are various types of advanced practice registered nurses, such as:

• Nurse Practitioners (NP): NPs provide comprehensive healthcare services, including health assessments, diagnosis, treatment, and prescribing medications. They can work independently or in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals.
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (ACNPs): ACNPs are advanced practice registered nurses that work in a hospital or other medical facility and provide care for patients with acute illnesses or injuries that require immediate medical attention. These nurses work in fast-paced environments, often in emergency rooms or critical care units.
• Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS): CNSs are experts in a particular area of nursing practice, such as critical care, oncology, or pediatrics. They provide specialized patient care, consultation, and education to patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
• Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNM): CNMs provide a range of healthcare services to women, including gynecological exams, prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. They also provide family planning services and manage common gynecological conditions.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA): CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. They work in collaboration with anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective anesthesia care.

What is the workplace of an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse like?

The workplace of an advanced practice registered nurse can vary depending on their specialty and area of practice. However, APRNs typically work in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may also work in non-traditional settings such as schools, community health centers, and correctional facilities.

APRNs are highly trained healthcare professionals who are authorized to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing patients’ overall healthcare. As such, their workplace often involves a combination of direct patient care, collaboration with other healthcare professionals, and administrative duties.

In the clinical setting, APRNs may spend a significant amount of time providing direct patient care. They may conduct physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide patient education. APRNs may also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, to coordinate patient care and ensure the best possible outcomes.

In addition to direct patient care, APRNs may also have administrative responsibilities. They may be responsible for managing patient records, completing documentation, and overseeing other healthcare staff. APRNs may also be involved in research and education, including conducting studies, publishing research findings, and teaching nursing students and other healthcare professionals.