1. What are the three main types of APNs in the US and

what are their scopes of practice?

- The three main types of APNs are nurse practitioners

(NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), and nurse

anesthetists (NAs). NPs provide primary and acute care,

prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests,

and manage chronic conditions. CNSs provide specialized

care in a specific area of nursing, such as oncology,

pediatrics, or geriatrics. They also provide consultation,

education, research, and leadership in their field. NAs

administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical

procedures. They also provide pain management and

critical care services.

2. What are the main differences between certification and

licensure for APNs?

- Certification is a voluntary process that validates an

APN's knowledge and skills in a specific area of practice. It

is granted by a professional organization, such as the

American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the

American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA).

Licensure is a mandatory process that authorizes an APN to

practice legally in a state. It is granted by a state board of

nursing, which sets the requirements and standards for

APN practice.