An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a nurse who has had advanced training through a Master’s level program. The APRN has the ability to autonomously assess, diagnose, prescribe, and treat patients. A physician also has advanced medical training that allows them to assess, diagnose, prescribe, and treat patients. A physician typically has a residency program that gives them additional training, while an APRN does not. I initially felt that APRNs were not as educated as physicians, but I do not necessarily agree with that notion now. I feel that advanced practice nurses have a specialized training that is more patient centered and holistic care focused. This is mainly due …show more content…
However, through reading, I now feel that there is a greater difference. Nursing itself is a science, but it is not focused specifically in medicine. While APRNs can assess, diagnose, prescribe, and treat patients, the focus is not completely on the medical aspect. The science of nursing focuses on treating the whole patient, mind and body, not just looking for a cure.
What is the difference between APRN authority and ability? Before this course, I would not have been able to identify the difference in authority and ability. However, through the research and reading this course offers, I feel I have a much better understanding of these terms and what they mean for my practice. APRNs have the knowledge and ability to perform tasks for which they have been trained. Practice authority, however, is limited by state laws and regulations which determine which abilities the APRN can perform. The goal for all APRNs is full practice authority, which would allow us to practice autonomously and to fullest extent of our training.
Do you feel that APRNs holding a DNP or PhD should be called Doctor in the clinical setting? Why or why …show more content…
Nonetheless, I do feel that if you have earned the degree then you should be able to use the title you prefer. Since researching and being involved in the state chat, I do realize that the issue of using the title doctor. The main concern would be ensuring that the patients understand your role as often our patients do not understand the difference. This could be accomplished by introducing yourself as the Nurse Practitioner and explaining your role if needed. However, this still may not clarify their role for all patients.
Do you feel it is essential for APRNs, specifically you, to be involved in politics? Why or why not? What could YOU do to be involved? I have never felt that I was a political person, but this may change somewhat since I am now aware of how the laws in each state affect the practice of APRNs. I do not feel that I will be in the heart of politics, but I do think it is important to advocate by contacting legislators/representatives, stay involved, stay aware, and educate yourself and others.
What have you learned in this class that has been surprising to