SB 53 Summary: Advanced Practice Registered Nursing and Certified Direct-Entry Midwifery

• Establishes "advanced practice registered nurse" (APRN) as the official title, replacing "nurse practitioner," with permitted abbreviation "APRN"

• Creates licensing pathway for APRNs requiring current registered nurse licensure and completion of an accredited advanced practice nursing education program

• Allows APRNs to practice in four specialties: certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), certified clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified nurse practitioner (CNP), and certified nurse midwife (CNM)

• Expands scope of practice for APRNs and direct-entry midwives in healthcare settings, including physical examinations and clinical recommendations under Board of Nursing regulations

• Updates 60+ statutes throughout Alaska law to standardize terminology referencing advanced practice nurses, midwives, and health care providers; takes effect July 1, 2016