What is an Advanced Pratice Nurse (APN)?
The Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas defines an APN as: “A registered professional nurse, currently licensed in the State of Texas, who is prepared for advanced nursing practice by virtue of knowledge and skills obtained in an advanced educational program of study acceptable to the board. The advanced practice nurse is prepared to practice in an expanded role to provide health care to individuals, families, and/or groups in a variety of settings including but not limited to homes, hospitals, institutions, offices, industry, schools, community agencies, public and private clinics, and private practice. The advanced practice nurse acts independently and/or in collaboration with other health care professionals in the delivery of health care services.” What this means is that the APN has completed advanced education and clinical practice beyond the 2-4 years of basic nursing education (ADN or BSN). Each state sets its own rules regarding recognition and scope of advanced pra
