Final answer:
An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a nurse with advanced education and training in one of four roles: Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM).
Step-by-step explanation:
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a highly skilled healthcare professional prepared through advanced education and clinical training to provide a range of healthcare services, including the diagnosis and management of medical conditions. There are four primary roles that an APRN can hold:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) - NPs provide a wide range of healthcare services, including the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of medical conditions. They are authorized to prescribe medications and may work in a variety of settings, including clinics, hospitals, and private practices.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) - CNSs offer expert advice related to specific conditions or treatment pathways and often play a key role in influencing system-wide changes in healthcare practices.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) - CRNAs specialize in the field of anesthesia, providing anesthesia care for patients before, during, and after surgery.
- Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) - CNMs specialize in women's reproductive health and childbirth, providing care during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period.
APRNs are essential healthcare providers who contribute to the quality and accessibility of healthcare services by expanding their scope of practice beyond that of a registered nurse.