An international survey on advanced practice nursing education, practice, and regulation.
OBJECTIVE
To describe international trends on the developing role of the nurse practitioner-advanced practice nurse (NP-APN), including nomenclature, levels and types of NP-APN education, practice settings, scope of practice, regulatory policies, and political environment.


METHODS
A cross-sectional, descriptive Web-based survey sent in February and March 2008 to a total of 174 key informants and active members of the International Nurse Practitioner-Advanced Practice Nursing Network of the International Council of Nurses.


METHODS
An international Web-based survey preceded by a pilot survey.


RESULTS
Ninety-one nurses from 32 countries responded. Thirteen titles were identified on nomenclature for the NP-APN in different countries. NP-APN education was available in 71% of the 31 countries responding to this item, with 50% identifying the master's degree as the most prevalent credential. Twenty-three countries had formal recognition of the NP-APN role. Of these, 48% had licensure maintenance or renewal requirements for the NP-APN, with most requiring continuing education or clinical practice. The greatest support for the NP-APN role came from domestic nursing organizations (92%), individual nurses (70%), and the government (68%), while opposition came primarily from domestic physician organizations (83%) and individual physicians (67%).


CONCLUSIONS
Interest in the NP-APN role has been gaining ground worldwide. This study presents a snapshot of education, practice, and regulation for NP-APNs as they develop their unique role in delivering health care in various countries. Areas that may require more support are highlighted.


CONCLUSIONS
The NP-APN role in healthcare systems is expanding and will benefit from international networking and support.
Pulcini
Joyce
J
William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA. pulcinjo@bc.edu
Jelic
Monika
M
Gul
Raisa
R
Loke
Alice Yuen
AY
D057179:Advanced Practice Nursing / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends*; D003406:Credentialing; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006801:Humans; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D011364:Professional Practice; D013041:Specialties, Nursing