What are the benefits of advanced practice nursing?
A registered nurse (RN) is a graduate of a two- or four-year program in nursing. To reap the benefits of being an advanced practice nurse (APN), the nurse needs to earn a master’s degree in nursing (MSN).Advanced Practice RolesThe MSN allows the APN to take on a challenging role as a clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife or nurse anesthetist.Scope of PracticeAn APN can earn certification and an advanced license to expand her scope of practice. For example, a nurse midwife can provide prenatal care and deliver babies.CompetencyAn MSN program offers classroom learning, supervised clinical instruction, and independent study that help the APN develop expert knowledge and skills in his area of interest.Career AdvancementAccording to the University of Rochester School of Nursing, many nursing management roles, clinical jobs, and education positions are open only to APNs.PotentialAccording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, APNs are in high demand, especially in medical