Alabama Consumers' Views of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses

The primary purpose of boards of nursing is public protection, but few boards have conducted research with the public's input.This article provides results of a study conducted by the Alabama Board of Nursing regarding the views of 600 consumers on advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Questions focused on APRN preparation and practice, consumers' satisfaction and comfort with APRNs, and consumers' willingness to use APRN services. Most participants expressed familiarity with the roles of certified registered nurse practitioners and certified registered nurse anesthetists, but not the roles of certified nurse midwives or clinical nurse specialists. One or more of several demographic variables affected consumers' familiarity with APRN roles, preparation, and services. Willingness to use an APRN and satisfaction with APRN services were significantly associated with consumer experiences. Less than 20% of participants knew the agency responsible for regulating APRNs, but the expectations for public safety were explicit regarding preparation for practice and competence.