Regulation of advanced nursing practice: Part Two--Certification.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: To present an overview of issues related to the use of advanced practice nursing (APN) certification.

DATA SOURCES

Published articles, position papers, and colleague experiences.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Certification is used for credentialing APNs at the state level, and in some states, it is a requirement for second licensure. Presently, a great deal of variability exists in the purposes and procedures related to certification processes, thus devaluing its use.

CONCLUSION

The lack of consistency among certifying agencies and the lack of documented impact of certified advanced nursing practice can negatively affect the value placed on certification as an advanced practice credential. In the current climate of increased regulation, nursing must maintain control of practice regulation.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Inconsistencies between states and among nursing organizations can negatively affect the mobility and career flexibility of APNs. The evaluation of outcomes related to certified advanced nursing practice must be a research priority in the current climate. Collaboration among specialty organizations also must occur to increase the credibility of certification as a nursing credential.