APRN Guides

Pursuing an advanced nursing career is challenging, but there is a wealth of scholarship opportunities, professional associations, salary guides, and more to help aspiring APRNs. Check out our authoritative resource guides below.

Women’s Health NPs & National Endometriosis Awareness Month Advocacy Guide

February 15, 2023 – Nina Chamlou

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases, affecting at least one in ten women, yet it takes an average of seven to 12 years to diagnose. Many patients never receive a diagnosis, leaving questions about their health unanswered.

Cardiovascular Professionals Week Resources & Advocacy Guide (2023)

January 30, 2023 – Matt Zbrog

Cardiovascular Professionals Week takes place from February 12-18, 2023. Hosted by the Association of Cardiovascular Professionals (ACVP), it marks an opportunity to recognize the dedication, professionalism, and impact of those who deliver emergent and routine cardiovascular care to some of the most vulnerable and intensive populations in the healthcare system.

How to Become a Clinical Nurse Specialist

January 4, 2023 – Kimmy Gustafson

A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice registered nurse who provides expert nursing care to patients with complex medical needs. CNSs play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing critical care and guidance to patients and their families. They also work closely with other healthcare team members, including doctors and nurses, to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

National CRNA Week Resources & Advocacy Guide (2023)

January 3, 2023 – Matt Zbrog

CRNA care is safe, cost-effective, and a critical resource for rural and veteran communities. But barriers remain to unlocking the profession's full potential, and CRNAs are banding together to make their voices heard on these issues.

Travel Nurse Practitioner (NP) Jobs: What to Look for Before Going Remote

December 14, 2022 – Sophia Khawly, MSN

Before going remote, a travel NP should contemplate their priorities in choosing an assignment. Are they concerned about taxes or practice autonomy? Or are they just looking for a place to work that seems welcoming and with a fair patient-to-provider ratio?

NPs & HIV/AIDS Awareness Month Advocacy Guide

December 8, 2022 – Kimmy Gustafson

HIV/AIDS is a critical public health issue that demands attention. In 2019, the most recent statistics available, the CDC reported that there were 36,801 new HIV infections in the US. While this number is a 9 percent decrease since 2015, it is still alarmingly high.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) vs. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) vs. Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)

December 6, 2022 – Kimmy Gustafson

There are many different types of nurses, each with its own specific focus and training. Three advanced roles include nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), and clinical nurse leader (CNL). All of these nurses have completed additional training beyond what is required to become registered nurses (RNs). However, the focus of this additional training can be quite different, and the duties and roles vary widely.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) vs. Physician Associate or Assistant (PA)

November 9, 2022 – Rachel Drummond, MEd

Why consider a career as a nurse practitioner or a physician associate (formerly known as a physician assistant)? Both positions are primary care providers who provide general or specialized healthcare in clinical or hospital settings.

The Process to Become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner – What to Know

October 27, 2022 – Kimmy Gustafson

Psychiatric nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses with specialized training in psychiatry and mental health. Not only do they provide psychotherapy services, but they also can prescribe medications based on a client’s needs. Their duties include everything from assessing a client’s mental health, diagnosing mental health illnesses, and writing a treatment plan.

NP vs Physician / Medical Doctor (MD)

October 7, 2022 – Matt Zbrog

While NPs and MDs may perform many of the same roles in some geographies and specialties, they will perform drastically different roles in others. But the NP role continues to evolve rapidly, and the differences aren’t as drastic as they were 20 years ago.