Distinguishing Advanced Nursing Practice and Advanced Practice Registered Nursing
Advanced Nursing Practice and Advanced Practice Nursing describe the same nursing processes. However, the range of knowledge and contribution to healthcare differs for the two types of care. First, although both types of nursing are based on a deeper understanding of research, advanced nursing practice requires a master’s degree as the highest necessary level of education (Bellflower & Likes, 2019).
In contrast, advanced practice nurses usually obtain a doctorate. Other differences are based on this distinction – advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are highly skilled professionals with vast practical knowledge and experience and a deep understanding of theory and research methods (Bellflower & Likes, 2019). Thus, advanced practice is linked to scholarship, decision-making, leadership, management, and advocacy. However, advanced nursing practice also has some features of population care and improvement projects.
Assessing the Population Served in Family Nursing Practice Role
An advanced nursing practice role allows one to serve many populations. For example, ANPs may work with specific groups, including children, pregnant women, older adults, and families. Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) work with a diverse population group, caring for patients of various ages and treating conditions for a long time. In Wyoming, NPs have full practice autonomy, meaning they can operate without physician supervision (NurseJournal, 2023). Therefore, FNPs can serve the chosen diverse population without restrictions.
Exploring Certification Opportunities for Family Nursing Practice Role
Certification is an essential step for nurses at every level, and advanced nursing practice requires one to pass tests and confirm theoretical and practical expertise. For the chosen role of an NP, the practitioner must reach a master’s degree and receive board certification. While the first part of this career path is completed at the university, the second is achieved with the help of two organizations – the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (American Nurses Association, 2022). While the tests from the two associations are different, they both test the nurse’s knowledge and skills. For instance, certification requires understanding policy, diagnosis, and ethics.
Every nurse seeking career growth can consider following a licensure, accreditation, certification, and education plan (LACE). According to the Consensus Model for APRNs, the LACE plan for the certified nurse practitioner (CNP) includes several steps. First, the CNP needs to complete a master’s degree or equivalent graduate-level program. Next, the future CNP passes the chosen role’s national APRN certification exam. CNPs must possess advanced knowledge, skills, experience, and training to assume leadership, advocacy, and clinical roles (American Nurses Association, 2022). Finally, a license in one of the specific fields is required.
Investigating State-Specific Implications for Family Nursing Practice Role
In Wyoming, nurses start their path toward the CNP role by obtaining a registered nurse license. A bachelor’s degree is required for this step – an associate’s degree may suffice for an initial career start. Still, a bachelor’s level of education is vital for continuing education and higher levels of authority (American Nurses Association, 2022).
Second, Wyoming nurses must advance their training and finish postgraduate education. CNPs may complete doctorate programs if they want to focus on leadership and research. Third, as noted above, national certification should be obtained with the help of the described organizations. The last step for the certified nurse is to gain authority in the state specifically. Here, one should apply to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing, confirming experience, education, and residence in the state (NurseJournal, 2023). After paying a fee and passing all checks, the nurse gains the license to practice in the state.
References
American Nurses Association. (2022). Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Web.
Bellflower, B., & Likes, W. (2019). Commentary on potential crisis in nurse practitioner preparation in the United States. Policy, Politics, & Nursing Practice, 20(4), 186-187. Web.
NurseJournal. (2023). Nurse practitioner practice authority: A state-by-state guide. Web.