What is the central competency of any advanced practice nursing regardless of role?

The central competency of any advanced practice nursing, regardless of role, is direct clinical practice. This competency encompasses the essential skills and knowledge that advanced practice nurses bring to the healthcare system, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and manage patient care effectively. Direct clinical practice involves not only treating patients but also integrating clinical knowledge with patient interactions to ensure quality care.

Advanced practice nurses are expected to engage in hands-on patient care, employing evidenced-based practices to improve patient outcomes. This core competency is foundational, as it forms the basis for the advanced skills in research, leadership, and advocacy that can be built upon. Thus, it is the direct clinical interactions and patient management that primarily define the role of advanced practice nurses and set them apart from other healthcare providers.