<p>An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a Registered Nurse (RN) qualified to function independently. May perform physical examinations and diagnostic tests, develop and carry out treatment programs, or counsel patients. APRNs can diagnose, prescribe, and treat and providers and may certify in a variety of areas. The categories of APRN recognized in New Hampshire are: Nurse Pracitioner (NP); Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA); Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM); and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Psychiatric/Mental Health only. </p> <p><strong>Legislation:</strong> NH RSA 326-B; Administrative Rules Chapter Nur 100-800</p> <p><strong>Licensure Requirements:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Must have a New Hampshire Registered Nurse license or a compact license from a party state</li> <li>Submit written application</li> <li>Be a graduate of an accepted program</li> <li>Ability to read and write the English language</li> <li>Submit evidence of passing a National certifying exam in the applicant's category/specialty</li> <li>Applicants for initial permanent licensure or endorsement must submit a notarized criminal history record release form along with a complete set of fingerprints taken by a qualified law enforcement agency or authorized employee of the New Hampshire Department of Safety</li> <li>To continue or re-enter practice, validate 400 hours active-in-practice within four years prior to application</li> </ul> <p><strong>Examination:</strong> National certification exam in the specific area of expertise is required</p> <p><strong>Continuing Education:</strong> In addition to requirements for a Registered Nurse renewal, 30 hours of continuing education specific to the APRN specialty are required for biennial renewal, which must include at least five hours of coursework in pharmacology. If a United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) number specific to New Hampshire is acquired or in possession, the APRN must complete and provide
