Advanced Practice Nursing – from the concept to clinical practice

Due to an ageing population and a growing demand for healthcare provision, pressure is rising internationally to increase the efficiency of the healthcare system and to keep costs under control. New healthcare professions, including the occupation of Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), are being introduced within this context. This article looks at the competencies, roles and fields of activity covered by this occupational profile and considers the contribution it makes to healthcare provision both from an international and a Swiss perspective. It also highlights the areas in which the profession of APN differs from that of other specialised nurses and concludes by indicating the significance of mandatory regulations relating to quality assurance.