Advanced Practice Scope and Standards

Advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners (NPs), are increasingly specializing in their areas of practice. In response, specialty nursing organizations have delineated the scope and standards of advanced practice in these specialty areas.

The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) first issued the AACN Scope and Standards for Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Practice in 2006, updated them in 2012, and on November 14, 2017 issued its latest edition that describes the specialty’s evolving role in critical care nursing.

The new edition reflects advances in critical care knowledge, practice, and technology and aligns with the Consensus Model for Advanced Practice Nursing Regulation. This updated edition addresses the full scope of practice for Acute Care NPs, including pediatric acute care.

Similarly, the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) publishes the Statement on the Scope and Standards of Oncology Nursing Practice: Generalist and Advanced Practice. The statement includes required educational preparation for oncology NP practice, certification, and credentialing, and describes standards of advanced practice oncology nursing care and standards of professional practice.