Definition
An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN*) who is educated in the disciplines of nursing and a clinical practice specialty of primary or acute care.

 Healthcare Provided by NPs includes
   • Complete physical examinations
   • Health assessment
   • Health promotion and counseling
   • Diagnosis and treatment of health conditions/illnesses
   • Patient advocacy

NPs practice in a variety of settings
   • Outpatient Clinics
   • Private Practice Offices
   • Hospitals
   • Urgent Care Centers
   • Specialty Practice Offices
   • Schools
   • Nursing Homes
   • Community Health Centers
   • Mental Health Facilities
   • Homeless Shelters

NP Educational Preparation
   • BSN in nursing
   • Masters in nursing
   • National Certification as a NP
   • State Recognition as a NP
   • State Prescriptive Authority
    • Federal/State DEA Prescription Authority Class V

NPs practice in a collaborative and inter-disciplinary manner in the management of client care. NPs use nationally accepted guidelines for client care.  

*APRN is the anagram for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. The anagram APRN is being used more and more by legislative and governing bodies to describe the collection of registered nurses (RNs) that practice in the extended role or practice beyond the normal role of basic registered nursing. The APRN needs special education beyond the four-year baccalaureate degree in nursing. In fact, most APRNs need a master’s degree. The APRN role not only encompasses additional education, but also is a role requiring extra responsibility, critical thinking and judgment. The APRN in South Carolina must hold a national certification in his/her area of expertise.