RN vs APRN: Understanding Advanced Practice Nurses
An RN provides nursing care. An APRN has graduate training and expanded clinical authority. Here's how the roles compare.
Published June 26, 2026 · 4 min read
An RN is a registered nurse who provides patient care, education, monitoring, and care coordination. An APRN is an advanced practice registered nurse with graduate-level education and expanded clinical training.
APRN Roles
APRNs may include nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, certified nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists. Depending on state law and specialty, APRNs may diagnose conditions, order tests, prescribe medications, provide anesthesia, manage treatment plans, or lead specialized care.
Key Differences
The difference between RN and APRN often comes down to education, scope of practice, clinical authority, and specialization.
Which Do You Need?
When searching a nursing directory, users should understand whether they need general nursing care from an RN or advanced clinical services from an APRN.
Important
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