APRN vs. NP — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on January 11, 2024
APRN is a broader category including NPs; NPs are a specific type of APRN.
Difference Between APRN and NP
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
APRN: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, encompassing several roles including Nurse Practitioners. NP: Nurse Practitioner, a specific type of APRN focused on primary or specialty care.
APRN: Requires advanced clinical training and education beyond the Registered Nurse level. NP: As a type of APRN, also requires such advanced training, often with a master's or doctoral degree.
APRN: Can specialize in areas like midwifery or anesthesia. NP: Specialization mainly in patient population foci, like pediatrics or geriatrics.
APRN: Scope of practice varies by state, including prescription authority. NP: Scope as an NP also varies; in some states, they can practice independently.
APRN: National certification needed in a specific role or population. NP: Requires national certification in their practice area as well.
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Comparison Chart
Category
Broad nursing category
Specific type of APRN
Roles Included
Includes NPs, CRNAs, CNMs, CNSs
Focused on Nurse Practitioner role
Specialization
Varied, including midwifery, anesthesia
Patient population focus
Scope of Practice
Varies by state and specialization
Scope varies, some independent practice
Education Requirement
Advanced beyond RN, varies by role
Generally master's or doctoral degree
Compare with Definitions
APRN
Includes NPs, CRNAs, CNMs, and CNSs.
She pursued her APRN degree to become a CRNA.
NP
Advanced nurses with specialized training.
The APRN managed complex patient care efficiently.
APRN
Advanced nurses with specialized training.
The APRN managed complex patient care efficiently.
NP
Nurses with roles beyond traditional RN duties.
As an APRN, she could prescribe medications.
APRN
Requires national certification in a specialty.
The APRN was certified in pediatric care.
NP
Scope of practice varies by state and role.
In her state, the APRN had full practice authority.
APRN
Scope of practice varies by state and role.
In her state, the APRN had full practice authority.
NP
Includes NPs, CRNAs, CNMs, and CNSs.
She pursued her APRN degree to become a CRNA.
APRN
Nurses with roles beyond traditional RN duties.
As an APRN, she could prescribe medications.
NP
Requires national certification in a specialty.
The APRN was certified in pediatric care.
NP
The chemical symbol for Neptunium, a transuranic element having atomic number 93.
NP
A radioactive transuranic metallic element; found in trace amounts in uranium ores; a by-product of the production of plutonium
NP
A registered nurse who has received special training and can perform many of the duties of a physician
Common Curiosities
What is an APRN?
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with specialized training beyond RN.
What does NP stand for?
Nurse Practitioner, a specific type of APRN.
Can APRNs prescribe medication?
Yes, many APRNs, including NPs, have prescribing authority.
Can an APRN be a midwife?
Yes, Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are a type of APRN.
Is additional certification required for APRNs?
Yes, national certification in their specific role or population is required.
Are all NPs considered APRNs?
Yes, NPs fall under the broader category of APRNs.
Do NPs need a doctoral degree?
Not always, but they often hold a master's or doctoral degree.
Do NPs have specializations?
Yes, NPs can specialize in areas like pediatrics or mental health.
Can NPs conduct research?
Yes, especially those with doctoral degrees.
Are APRNs recognized internationally?
Their roles and recognition vary globally.
What's the demand for APRNs and NPs?
Both are in high demand, particularly in primary care.
What's the difference in practice scope between APRNs and NPs?
Both vary by state, but NPs may practice independently in some regions.
Can APRNs and NPs work in education?
Yes, many are involved in nursing education and training.
What roles are included under APRN?
Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse Midwives.
Do APRNs have more responsibilities than RNs?
Yes, they have advanced clinical roles and often leadership responsibilities.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
