Reflections on the Continuing Evolution of Advanced Practice Nursing

Introduction

I believe that advanced practice nurses play a critical role in the delivery of quality health care to different patient populations. Advanced practice nurses fall into four categories; namely, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and certified nurse midwives (Hanson & Hamric, 2003). I have a conviction that these roles are of critical importance in the modern day. Through their education, advanced practice nurses develop unique competencies that help them to fulfill their roles effectively. The definition of advanced practice nursing has changed significantly over the years. In my view, the change in definition has focused on specifying areas of specialization and organized training for advanced practice nurses. I support the definition that considers advanced practice nursing as the application of practical, theoretical, and research-based therapeutics in providing solutions to patients with different phenomena. Notably, advanced practice nurses specialize in their preferred clinical area and can deliver personalized and quality health care.

It is apparent that becoming an advanced practice nurse is a great responsibility that requires a high level of commitment. Pursuing my degree in nursing is one of the ways in which I have prepared for becoming an advanced practice nurse. However, I will also need graduate education and national certification for me to become a practicing advanced practice nurse. It is important for me to develop core competencies required for advanced practice nursing such as clinical and professional leadership, application of evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, collaboration, consultation, as well as expert coaching and guidance (Kemp & Baker, 2013). These competencies will empower me to be in a position to meet the needs of various patients. And register high levels of patient satisfaction. I am well aware of the certification and credentialing processes required for advanced practice nurses. I conceive that The National Council of State Boards of Nursing should develop an explicit regulation and licensure process for individuals who are willing to become advanced practice nurses.

Meeting the certification and licensure requirements demonstrates my commitment to becoming a licensed advanced practice nurse who can register a positive impact on the lives of patients. I am cognizant of the expanding roles of advanced practice nurses. The dynamics in the healthcare sector, such as rapid population growth, high levels of diversity, and an increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses will compel me to embrace new responsibilities in my daily practice (Pye & Green, 2011). I have the conviction that advanced practice nurses should be willing to fill in the gaps created by the low workforce and focus on meeting the needs of various patient populations. Undoubtedly, the emerging roles of advanced practice nurses will compel me to seek an advanced education so that I can acquire more competencies and be able to deliver quality health care. The responsible board will soon develop a clear definition of the emerging scope of practice of advanced practice nurses.

Conclusion

I understand that advanced practice nurses will need to venture into new specialty areas in the future. The need for various healthcare services and the emerging dynamics will compel advanced practice nurses to take up blended roles. The blended roles will compel me to work in various settings. Through training, I will be able to embrace the blended roles of advanced practice nurses and continue to meet the needs of patients (Kemp & Baker, 2013). It is apparent that advanced practice nurses have a significant role to play in the future of the healthcare sector. For this reason, I am committed to becoming a reliable and competent advanced practice nurse who focuses on the delivery of person-centered care.