The Consensus Model and the Role of the APRN

Journal

The Consensus model was designed to ensure uniformity in the process of licensure, accreditation, certification, and education regulations for all advanced practice registered nurses in all states in the United States. Unfortunately, there are still differences between states, and some of them prove to be an obstacle for the APRNs to fully practice according to their training and qualifications. According to CS/HB 547 of the Scope of Practice of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses & Physician Assistants Bill, APRNs who meet certain criteria were allowed to register with the Board of Nursing and to practice in their advanced practice registered nurse role without the supervision of a physician or protocol. The APRNs were given a special title – “Independent Advanced Practice Registered Nurses.” The bill also authorizes the IAPRNs to perform the duties of a physician including providing a signature, certification, stamp, affidavit, and any other necessary endorsement required by law to be signed by a physician. The IAPRNs will also be able to act as primary care providers, certify the cause of death, sign, correct, and file death certificates.

Unfortunately, referring to the consensus model on the APRN scope of practice (“Consensus Model for APRN Regulation: Licensure, Accreditation, Certification & Education,” 2008), the definition of the APRN and requirements for the APRN to practice provides a barrier. More specifically, for an APRN to practice in Florida, they are required to meet certain criteria to be registered with the Board of Nursing under the title IAPRN instead of APRN. This means, APRN who do not meet the criteria cannot practice to their full capacity the role of APRN according to their training and qualifications. In this case, the APRN will have to perform only the duties of the Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner and not the full capacity of an IAPRN.

References

“Consensus Model for APRN Regulation: Licensure, Accreditation, Certification & Education.” (2008). National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Retrieved from: https://www.ncsbn.org/Consensus_Model_for_APRN_Regulation_July_2008.pdf

Scope of Practice of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses & Physician Assistants Bill 2015 CS/HB 547 (U.S.). Retrieved from: http://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2015/547/Analyses/h0547d.HHSC.PDF