Advanced Practice Overview Advanced Practice Nurse (APNs) include registered professional nurses, with a current license to practice, who is prepared for advanced nursing practice by virtue of knowledge and skills obtained through a post-basic or advanced education program of study acceptable to the State Board of Nurse Examiners. The APN is prepared to practice in an expanded role to provide health care to individuals, families, and/or groups in a variety of settings including, but not limited to, homes, hospitals, institutions, offices, industry, schools, community agencies, public and private clinics, and private practice. The APN acts independently and/or in collaboration with other health care professionals to deliver health care services (Texas Nurse Practice Act, Section 221).5 APNs conduct comprehensive health assessments aimed at health promotion and disease prevention. They also diagnose and manage common acute illnesses, with referral as appropriate, and manage stable chronic conditions in a variety of settings. APNs titles include Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Certified Nurse Anesthetist. Independent practitioners are capable of solo practice with clinically competent skills and are legally approved to provide a defined set of services without assistance or supervision of another professional.