International Council of Nurses

Book excerpt: Advanced Nursing Practice addresses the key issues in practice,education, regulation, research and role/practice development,which are central to defining the distinctive nature of advancednursing practice (ANP) and explores international developments inthe field of ANP. Advanced Nursing Practice has been developed in recognition of thekey role nurses with advanced knowledge and skills play indeveloping health care services worldwide. The book tracks theevolution of new advanced practice nursing roles and innovativepractice models, and examines the need for internationalguidelines. In exploring strategies for implementing ANP in thecontext of countries' health care needs, Advanced Nursing Practiceaddresses legal and ethical challenges and commonalities anddifferences in advanced nursing practice, while examining theimplications, obstacles, and facilitative strategies inmaintaining, implementing and supporting the development ofANP. This book provides guidance in decision-making, examines theimplications for liaising with other health care professionals andencourages nurses to shape their role to the needs of theirpatients and practice.