The sixth edition of this time-tested text on advanced nursing role development is completely updated to encompass the full complement of current APRN practice roles. Reflecting the evolving spheres of the DNP and CNL, it illuminates in greater depth the transition into practice of APRN master’s and doctoral students and emphasizes the APRN’s all-important role in influencing health policy, global health, and differentiated APRN practice and leadership roles within interprofessional teams. This sixth edition—the only text to address the APRN role globally—continues the conversation on educational requirements and differentiation from certification, and includes expanded coverage of professional issues and research-based practice. Also discussed is the impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (and any potential changes) on the current and future APRN role. Encompassing the diverse expertise of highly experienced contributors from a wide variety of practice settings, the text continues to deliver essential information on advanced clinical decision-making, reimbursement, ethical issues, technology, and employment strategies. It reflects the competencies identified by key stakeholder organizations such as the ANA, NONPF, NACNS, AANA, ACNM, and AACN. New to the Sixth Edition: Focuses on the pros and cons of international healthcare system models Reflects the evolving roles of the DNP and CNL Details the transition into practice for APRN master’s and doctoral students, particularly NPs, CNSs, CNMs and CRNAs Focuses on the importance of APRN leadership in shaping health through political activism Discusses the impact of the APRN role on expected changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Emphasizes how APRNs can influence health policy, global health, and differentiated practice and leadership roles within interprofessional teams Updates information about educational requirements and differentiation from certification Expands coverage of professional issues and research-based practice Incorporates topics for discussion at the end of each chapter Key Features: Addresses interprofessional, global health, leadership roles, and practice issues regarding credentialing, prescriptive authority, and liabilities Delivers conceptual and practical frameworks for teachers and students Includes case studies, an instructor’s manual, and PowerPoints Print version includes free, searchable, digital access to entire contents of the book