ACNP/ANP Roles

[neuronRN]

Out of curiosity, I have a question regarding the ACNP and ANP roles. I have done some of my own research here and on other websites but I have not found a real solid answer.

I understand the ACNP is an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and the ANP is an Adult Nurse Practitioner who most commonly practices in primary care. My question is: can an ACNP take on the responsibilities of an ANP and or vice versa? Which role would be best for a person interested in both the disciplines?

Moreover, in the future, I am interested in becoming an NP. However, I would like to remain in the hospital around the ED, ICU, and Trauma areas but at the same time I would like to see patients outside the hospital for primary care. I hope to have my own community clinic or work in one.

As usual, I appreciate and thank all comments!

[CCRNDiva, BSN, RN]

ACNPs are trained to manage acute and chronic disease. ANPs are trained as primary care providers. Many schools are completely separating the clinical experiences of primary and acute care students. While many NPs are practice outside of their trained roles, healthcare organizations and states are increasingly disallowing this practice.

If you would like to do both, you should consider a dual program such as ACNP/FNP etc so you could function in both roles. Or you could get a masters in one and a post masters in another.

[neuronRN]

Thank you CCRNDiva! Do you think it would be difficult maintaining both certifications?

[CCRNDiva, BSN, RN]

It depends on where you would practice as a NP I think. You could probably check with the AANP or AACN to verify their requirements for recertification. I don't think it would be a problem since there are quite a few schools that provide MSNs for dual certification to train for practice in the ED.