What is an APRN?

Orders, performs and interprets diagnostic tests such as lab work and x-rays. Diagnoses and treats both acute and chronic conditions. Prescribes medications and other treatments. Manages patients' overall care. Counsels and educates patients on disease prevention and positive health and lifestyle choices (American Association of Nurse Practitioners, n.d.).

Evaluates patients prior to procedures requiring anesthesia. Develops anesthesia care plans based on patient needs and medical history. Administers anesthesia for surgical, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures. Monitors patient vital signs and responses during anesthesia. Manages airway support and patient safety during procedures. Provides pain management and post-anesthesia care. Responds to emergency situations related to anesthesia or airway management. Collaborates with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals (Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, n.d.).

Focuses on women, newborns, and families by providing pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. Assists in family planning and prescribing birth control. Provides gynecological care and primary care for all stages of life, inclusive of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Provides wellness checkups, health screenings, and vaccinations. Prescribes medicines. Orders diagnostic tests. Assists physicians during surgery (Vorvick et al., 2024).

Provides direct and indirect care, specialized or general, and can be inpatient, outpatient, or administrative. Direct care can involve physical exams, prescribing treatments and patient education. Indirect care can involve clinical research, administrative work, setting guidelines, mentorship, and much more (Cleveland Clinic, 2025).