Clinical practice opportunities for advanced practice nurses.

Abstract

With approximately 132,000 practicing APNs and a continued need for APNs, the role will continue to expand. Many different business options and models for healthcare practice exist for the APN. Commonly thought of professional practice options for APNs include private practice, joint or collaborative practice, and group practice. Each model of professional practice brings with it different roles and responsibilities, rewards and challenges, and criteria for success. When evaluating different practice opportunities. APNs must be aware of each of these factors and evaluate each factor based on his or her chosen lifestyle. This article has presented an overview of common practice models and the roles and responsibilities, challenges and rewards, criteria for success, and lifestyle considerations inherent in each.