Advanced practice RNs must complete what requirement?

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are required to complete additional education in a specialty area and pass a certification exam to practice at an advanced level. This typically involves obtaining a master's degree or higher in nursing, which provides the necessary advanced knowledge and skills tailored to a specific area, such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife.

Following the completion of this advanced education, APRNs must also pass a national certification exam that demonstrates their competency in the chosen specialty. This combination of specialized education and certification is essential for ensuring that APRNs can provide high-quality care within their scope of practice.

Basic nursing training alone does not equip an individual with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to function as an APRN, and internships in surgical settings or general health education courses do not specifically fulfill the educational and certification requirements necessary for advanced practice.