Expanding the Scope of Acute Care Nurse Practitioners With a Registered Nurse First Assist Specialty

摘要

What is an acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) with a registered nurse first assist (RNFA) specialty?The ACNP with an RNFA specialty is an advanced practice nurse with the specialized knowledge and skills to function in advanced perioperative nursing. This role developed in response to social, legal, political, and professional factors derived from a rapidly evolving surgical healthcare environment (Table 1). The ACNP/RNFA role has emerged as one of the most exciting opportunities for nurses who wish to practice in all aspects of perioperative nursing. Discussion of the role, the educational process, credentialing and privileging, employment opportunities, and reimbursement of the ACNP/RNFA assists healthcare team members to understand the unique aspects and contributions of this role in the surgical continuum.