Academic training of nurses developing advanced practice roles.

The nursing profession, without losing its essence, is in continuous evolution in order to face and respond to the ever-changing health challenges of the population. Advanced Practice Nursing is a clear example of this development. The performance of advanced practice roles entails greater responsibility, expansion and depth of nursing practice, which is only possible with additional education beyond the bachelor's degree - a master's or doctoral degree in nursing - and greater expertise in clinical practice in a particular area of specialization. Advanced practice nursing is intrinsically linked to the level of education since, further academic development of nursing promotes the advancement of autonomous practice. This article addresses the education of Advanced Practice Nurses, and focuses on its core aspects; providing detailed information on competencies, curricular structure, curriculum and key components of training programs. Finally, special mention is made of advanced role training in the critical care setting.