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.

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.

Crushing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) Job Interview

November 14, 2022 – Sophia Khawly, MSN

When an NP is scheduled for a job interview, the site has already determined that the NP has most of the qualifications required for the position. Now they want to see if they like the NP and if they are as good as they seem on paper.

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.

A Guide to Non-Clinical Careers for Nurse Practitioners

October 18, 2022 – Sophia Khawly, MSN

Fortunately for NPs burned out by patient care, there are many non-clinical roles they can explore, such as teaching, research, informatics, and consulting. Some of these positions are remote, while others have flexible hours.

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.

NP vs Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

September 29, 2022 – Rachel Drummond, MEd

Each state board of nursing (SBON) has unique definitions, but the four common APRN titles are nurse practitioners (NPs), certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA), clinical nurse specialists (CNS), and certified nurse-midwives (CNM).

How Can I Become an NP Without a Nursing Degree?

September 12, 2022 – Rachel Drummond, MEd

If you’re ready for a career change and to make a difference in people’s lives, read on for a step-by-step guide to becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) without a nursing degree.

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

September 7, 2022 – Rachel Drummond, MEd

Pursuing a clinical healthcare career isn’t limited to becoming a physician. With a two-year master’s degree, one can become a nurse practitioner (NP) or a physician associate/assistant (PA) and provide primary or specialized care in clinical settings.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) vs Registered Nurse (RN)

August 31, 2022 – Rachel Drummond, MEd

The demand for registered nurses and nurse practitioners is fueled by increased patient loads brought on by expanded health insurance, a nursing retirement surge, and the healthcare needs of the large Baby Boomer population.