Creating an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Council Within a Regional Hospital Network

Abstract

This article describes the development of an advanced practice RN (APRN) council in a large hospital network. Despite obstacles, the council was able to demonstrate positive outcomes, which include standardization of the credentialing and onboarding process, productive networking, and an APRN-oriented education fair. The council has been able to guide workplace culture, establish and support vertical and horizontal interprofessional relationships, provide recommendations to relevant leadership boards, and develop standardized procedures.

Supporting Advanced Practice Nurses to Work at the Top of Their License

“…Examples include the development of advanced practice councils and committees, and engagement in quality and process improvement. In the November issue of JONA , Hayley Brown and others shared their experiences in the development of an advanced practice council and how this council leveraged optimal practice, interprofessional relationships, and valuable perspective as a stakeholder in health system leadership 3 . Advanced practice RNs can partner with nursing executives in targeted initiatives that benefit APRNs as part of the overall nursing structure such as achievement of Magnet® designation, APRN-focused clinical practice ladders, and performance appraisals meaningful to the APRN's professional growth and development.…”