The scope for neonatal advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) has evolved over time and with the growth of health care. The role of the neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP), for example, has expanded beyond the population of infants within a neonatal intensive care unit to include infants who have chronic conditions as a result of premature birth or neonatal pathophysiology. Practice environments include all levels of inpatient care, neonatal transport, delivery room management, and academic, outpatient, and community-based settings. The role of the NPP spans the continuum from acute to chronic to primary care, depending upon the setting. The NNP and neonatal clinical nurse specialist integrate research, education, practice, and management for a specific population. Both use advanced assessment skills, critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical competence to advance population health. The nature of the APRN’s work depends upon the needs of the institution or practice environment. The purpose of this...

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