Attend the 14IHNPUCG lecture by Dr. Eloise Elaine Phillips about Nursing and the journey to Advanced Practitioner.

 

Introduction

Nursing is a dynamic and fulfilling profession that combines the art of caring with the science of healthcare. For many nurses, the journey does not end at earning a basic nursing degree. Instead, it is the beginning of a path toward advanced practice, where they can significantly impact patient care, healthcare policies, and the future of the profession. This blog explores the steps involved in becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), the challenges faced, and the rewards of this career path.

Speaker Announcement..!! We’re so excited to welcome this amazing speaker, Dr. Eloise Elaine Phillips, She will present her talk “Nursing and the journey to Advanced Practitioner” at our CME/CPD accredited 14th International Healthcare, Hospital Management, Nursing, and Patient Safety Conference from July 25-27, 2024 in Dubai, UAE July 25-27, 2024 | Holiday Inn Dubai, UAE

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The Role of an Advanced Practitioner

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are highly educated nurses who have completed advanced clinical training. They serve in various roles, including Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), and Nurse Midwives (CNMs). APRNs have the expertise to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care. They often serve as primary and specialty care providers, filling a crucial gap in the healthcare system, especially in underserved areas.

Steps to Becoming an APRN

Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): The journey begins with obtaining a BSN, which typically takes four years. This degree provides foundational knowledge in nursing theory, practice, and critical thinking skills necessary for advanced study.

Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After earning a BSN, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). This exam tests the knowledge and skills required to perform safely and effectively as an entry-level nurse.

Gain Clinical Experience: Before pursuing advanced practice, it is essential to gain practical experience as an RN. This period allows nurses to refine their clinical skills, understand patient care dynamics, and determine their specialization area.

Pursue a Graduate Degree: To become an APRN, nurses must earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. These programs offer specialized education and training in advanced clinical practice, research, and leadership.

Choose a Specialty: During their graduate studies, nurses select a specialty area, such as family practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, or acute care. This specialization dictates the scope of practice and the patient population they will serve.

Obtain Certification: After completing their graduate program, nurses must obtain certification in their chosen specialty from a recognized certifying body, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Acquire State Licensure: APRNs must be licensed to practice in their state. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally include certification, graduate education, and sometimes additional exams.

Challenges along the Way

The path to becoming an APRN is rigorous and demanding. Some of the common challenges include:

Financial Burden: Advanced education can be expensive, and many nurses juggle work, studies, and family responsibilities.

Balancing Work and Study: Many nurses continue working while pursuing advanced degrees, which requires excellent time management and dedication.

Keeping Up with Advances: The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and APRNs must stay current with the latest research, technologies, and best practices.

The Rewards of Advanced Practice

Despite the challenges, the journey to becoming an APRN is incredibly rewarding. Some of the benefits include:

Increased Autonomy: APRNs often have greater independence in their practice, allowing them to make critical decisions and manage patient care more directly.

Higher Earning Potential: Advanced practice roles typically come with higher salaries compared to standard nursing positions.

Professional Satisfaction: APRNs often experience a high level of job satisfaction from their ability to provide comprehensive care, educate patients, and contribute to healthcare improvements.

Leadership Opportunities: Advanced practitioners frequently take on leadership roles within healthcare organizations, shaping policies and guiding clinical practices.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse is challenging but immensely fulfilling. It requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for patient care. For those who embark on this path, the rewards are significant, both professionally and personally. As APRNs, nurses can make a profound difference in the lives of their patients and the broader healthcare system, ensuring high-quality care for all.

About the speaker:

Based in the Dubai branch of the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Eloise is an Associate Professor in Healthcare. Eloise is also in charge of the subject group for all programmes in human science, health, and wellbeing in Dubai. She teaches a range of topics in the postgraduate portfolio as the programme director for the MSc Advanced Practice in Healthcare (Dubai).

Eloise has the chance to effectively contribute to the delivery of activities throughout the range of all programmes within the Health, Wellbeing, and Human Sciences cluster through her position as Dubai Head of Subject Group. A position that oversees several universities' colleges.

Eloise is a highly skilled advanced clinical practitioner and registered nurse. She has worked in clinical practice, academia, research, leadership, and management in the healthcare industry all around the world.

Eloise has a strong commitment to the advanced practice agenda and giving all medical professionals the chance to shape healthcare delivery and enhance their careers.