The new graduate is learning about advanced practice nursing. Which of the following situations best illustrates an advanced practice nursing role? Select all that apply

Question

1. An experienced registered nurse who is the manager of a large obstetrical unit
2. A registered nurse who is the circulating nurse at surgical (cesarean) deliveries
3. A clinical nurse specialist who is working as a staff nurse on a mother–baby unit
4. A nurse practitioner who is consulting with a physician in the newborn nursery
5. A nurse–midwife attending vaginal deliveries of uncomplicated pregnancies

Answer 1

4, 5
Rationale:
1. Management roles are often held by professional nurses.
2. Unit-specific skills such as circulating during cesarean births do not require additional formal education.
3. An advanced practice nurse working as a staff nurse is not working in the role of advanced practice.
4. Advanced practice nurses have received additional specialized education beyond registered nursing, and tend to have a clinical focus. Nurse practitioners make clinical judgment and begin treatment, and consult a physician as needed.
5. It is within the scope of practice for certified nurse–midwives to attend deliveries of essentially normal patients with essentially normal pregnancies.