| A | B |
|---|
| Scope of Practice | Describes practice limits and sets the parameters within which nurses in the various APN specialties may practice. Scope of practice may vary from state to state. May find on Internet by searching state government Web pages. |
| Accountability | Crucial factor as APNs move toward authority over their own practices. APNs will need a clear vision and think strategically about scope of practice statements that reflected in the language of certifying bodies and language of state statues. |
| APN | Title that according to the ANA's definition requires that the role be clinically focused and that the APN gives direct clinical care to patients. Title is driven by the forces of : 1) to be directly reimbursed, and 2) degree of prescriptive and admitting privileges desired. |
| Standards of Practice | Defined by the profession nationally; they help further explicate and delineate scope of practice. Standards are authoritative statements that the profession uses to describe the responsibilities for which its members are accountable. They describe basic competency levels for safe and competent practice. |
| Practice Guidelines | These provide a foundation by which health care providers administer care to patients. |
| Standards of Care | Derived from evidence-based practice and are evolving over time. |
| Credentialing | Umbrella term that refers to the regulatory mechanisms that can be applied to individuals, programs, or organizations. Can be defined as "getting your ducks in a row" for meeting standards that protect the public and improve quality. |
| Licensure | This is the authority delegated to the individual states by the federal Constitution. |
| Advanced Practice Status | This is achieved through rules and regulations that are part of the individuals state nurse practice act. |
| Capitated System of Care | Providers are prepaid for caring for a population of patients. |
| Health Policy | In its broadest sense means any decision that affects health care at a group or macro level, including access, finance, reimbursement, delivery, quality, and cost. |
| Reimbursement | Issues arise with who receives health care services and who pays those who provide the services. Usually the payer is not the person who received the services. |
