There are many different types of nurses, each with its own area of expertise. One distinction that is often made is between advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs). While both roles involve additional education and training beyond the initial nursing degree, there are some key differences between them. Here are six of the most important ones.
1) APRNs have a wider range of practice than NPs
While NPs are able to provide many of the same services as an MD, APRNs have a wider range of practice. This includes not just diagnosing and treating illnesses, but also prescribing medication, ordering tests, and performing procedures. In order to become an APRN, nurses must first complete an accredited graduate-level program. There are ways to get post masters NP certification online degrees if you want to continue your education. Plus, they must pass a national certification exam in their area of specialty.
Keep in mind that APRNs are still able to specialize, just like NPs. In fact, many of the same specialties are available to both APRNs and NPs. These include family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, and mental health.
2) NPs tend to have a more patient-centered approach than APRNs
One of the key differences between NPs and APRNs is the way they approach patient care. NPs tend to take a more patient-centered approach. This means that they focus on getting to know the individual patient and their unique needs. They also work to educate patients about their health so that they can make informed decisions about their care.
Additionally, NPs are trained to provide care that is based on the latest evidence. This means that they keep up with the latest research so that they can offer their patients the most up-to-date care possible.
3) APRNs are able to work independently, while NPs are not
APRNs are able to work independently, while NPs are not. This is because APRNs have a wider range of practice than NPs. APRNs are able to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medication, order tests, and perform procedures without the supervision of an MD. In contrast, NPs must work under the supervision of an MD in order to provide care.
Also, keep in mind that the states in which APRNs and NPs are able to practice independently may vary. So, it’s important to check with your state’s Board of Nursing to see what the requirements are.
4) APRNs earn more than NPs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for APRNs was $107,030 in 2017. This is more than the median annual salary for NPs, which was $100,910. According to this information, APRNs earn a higher salary than NPs.
5) APRNs have more responsibility than NPs
Another key difference between APRNs and NPs is the level of responsibility they have. APRNs have more responsibility than NPs because they have a wider range of practice. This means that APRNs are responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medication, ordering tests, and performing procedures. In contrast, NPs are only responsible for providing care under the supervision of an MD. Also, APRNs may be responsible for supervising other nurses, while NPs are not.
6) APRNs require more education than NPs
As mentioned earlier, APRNs must complete an accredited graduate-level program in order to become certified. Additionally, they must pass a national certification exam in their area of specialty. In contrast, NPs only need to complete a master’s degree program and pass a national certification exam.
In addition to the differences between APRNs and NPs, there are also some similarities. For instance, both groups of professionals are able to specialize in a particular area of medicine. Additionally, both APRNs and NPs are required to maintain their certification through continuing education. Plus, both groups of professionals work to promote the health and well-being of their patients.
So, what is the difference between APRNs and NPs? The main differences are that APRNs have a wider range of practice than NPs, they focus on the individual patient more than NPs, they keep up with the latest research so that they can offer their patients the most up-to-date care possible, and they require more education than NPs. Keep in mind that these are just some of the key differences between APRNs and NPs. To learn more about what each profession entails, be sure to check out their respective websites. In conclusion, if you’re interested in a career in nursing, it’s important to understand the difference between APRNs and NPs. Good luck!