What is an APRN?

An APRN is a registered nurse who has attained advanced clinical training and education, typically at the master's or doctoral level. APRNs are equipped to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care autonomously or in collaboration with physicians, depending on state regulations. 

There are four primary APRN roles:  

• Nurse Practitioner (NP): Provides primary, acute, and specialty healthcare services.  
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Focuses on improving patient outcomes and nursing practices within specialized areas.  
• Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM): Offers gynecological, prenatal, and postnatal care, including labor and delivery services.  
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Administers anesthesia and monitors patients during surgical procedures. 

Educational and certification requirements 

Becoming an APRN involves several steps: 

1. Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Typically a 4-year program.  
2. Obtain RN Licensure: Pass the NCLEX-RN examination.  
3. Gain Clinical Experience: Most graduate programs require 1-2 years of RN experience.  
4. Complete a Graduate Program: Pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which can take 2-4 years.  
5. Achieve National Certification: Pass a certification exam relevant to your APRN role, such as those offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).  
6. Obtain State Licensure: Meet specific state requirements to practice as an APRN.  

Overall, the journey to becoming an APRN typically spans 6 to 8 years, encompassing both education and clinical experience. 

APRN vs. RN: Key differences 

While both RNs and APRNs are integral to patient care, APRNs have a broader scope of practice: 

• Autonomy: APRNs often have the authority to diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and initiate treatment plans, whereas RNs typically follow established care plans. 
• Education: APRNs hold advanced degrees (MSN or DNP), while RNs may have an associate or bachelor's degree.
• Specialization: APRNs specialize in specific areas, allowing for focused expertise. 
• Leadership: APRNs often take on leadership roles, guiding healthcare teams and influencing policy.  

Work environments and daily collaborations 

APRNs work in diverse settings, including:  

• Hospitals and surgical centers: Providing acute care and specialized services. 
• Private practices and clinics: Offering primary and specialty care. 
• Community health centers: Serving underserved populations. 
• Academic and research institutions: Engaging in teaching and clinical research. 
• Rural and underserved areas: Addressing healthcare disparities.  

Daily, APRNs collaborate with physicians, other nurses, specialists, and healthcare staff to ensure comprehensive patient care.  

Salary insights: RN vs. APRN 

Advancing from an RN to an APRN role often leads to significant salary increases:  

• Registered Nurses (RNs): Median annual salary of $93,600.
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs): Average annual salary of $128,311, with variations based on specialization.  

For instance, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) can earn around $212,650 annually. 

Career advancement opportunities 

After becoming an APRN, nurses can explore various career paths:  

• Leadership roles: Such as Nurse Manager or Director of Nursing.
• Education: Teaching future nurses in academic settings.
• Research: Conducting studies to advance nursing practices.
• Policy development: Influencing healthcare policies and regulations.
• Further specialization: Pursuing sub-specialties or additional certifications.  

Why pursue an APRN role? 

RNs may choose to become APRNs for several reasons: 

• Enhanced clinical skills: Gaining deeper expertise in patient care.
• Increased autonomy: Having greater decision-making authority.
• Higher earning potential: Achieving a significant salary increase.
• Expanded career opportunities: Accessing roles in leadership, education, and research.
• Impact on healthcare: Playing a vital role in addressing healthcare needs, especially in underserved areas.