The New Regulatory Model for APRNs

The need for an increased number of qualified and well-prepared APRN professionals is a driving force in the current healthcare setup. Unfortunately, it is important to note the ability of APRNs to practice to the full extent of their training and qualifications depends on the state level scope of practice laws and regulations. At the state level, the legislative statute or regulation, the Board of Nursing, or other agencies determine the scope of practice for APRN (Bosse, Simmonds, & Hanson, 2017). Consequently, as Hamric, Hanson, & Tracy also highlighted the state laws promulgated by the different state nurse practice acts, rules, and regulations are the reason for the variation in the scope of APRN practice. However, the introduction of the APRN Consensus Model outlines the recommendations for uniformity in APRN licensure, accreditation, certification, and education regulations in all states in America (Hoyt & Proehl, 2011). The core objective of the model is centered around patient safety and practice oversight. Similarly, the model purposes to be able to support the practice ability of APRN’s consistent with their full extent of training and qualifications. Currently, several states have adopted the portions of the model, although there are still some small variations.

How will the new consensus model improve the practice parameters and patient safety?

In Florida, the Board of Nursing outlines the licensure requirements, accreditation, certification, education level, and scope of practice, necessary for one to practice as an advanced practice registered nurse. However, the Consensus model seeks to improve the patient access to APRNs, support these professionals in their scope of work, and enhance the certification process (Rounds, Zych, & Mallary, 2013). The APRN Consensus Model provides consistency and clarity of the APRN practice, empowering them to work together to improve the overall healthcare and patient safety.

References

Bosse, J., Simmonds, K., Hanson, C., Pulcini, J., Dunphy, L., Vanhook, P., & Poghosyan, L. (2017). Position statement: Full practice authority for advanced practice registered nurses is necessary to transform primary care. Nursing Outlook, 65(6), 761-765.

Hamric, A. B., Hanson, C. M., Tracy, M. F., & O’Grady, E. T. (2014). Advanced practice nursing: An integrative approach. St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier/Saunders.

Hoyt, K. S., & Proehl, J. A. (2011). Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Consensus Model: Where Are We Now?. Advanced Emergency Nursing Journal, 33(2), 107-108.

Rounds, L. R., Zych, J. J., & Mallary, L. L. (April 01, 2013). The consensus model for regulation of APRNs: Implications for nurse practitioners. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, 25, 4, 180-185.