About Case Management & the Advanced Practice Nurse

An advanced practice registered nurse has a master's degree, and has developed specialized clinical skills for practice beyond the level of registered nurse. The scope of practice for APRNs includes skills in case management.

Function

The primary role of a nurse case manager is to coordinate care on behalf of the patient. This frequently includes obtaining needed resources, navigating health care and social service systems, as well as discharge planning.

Significance

Nursing is one of the fastest growing fields in health care, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Advanced practice registered nurses are in particular demand because they can deliver case management services, prescribe medicine and diagnosis medical conditions, often independent of a physician.

Benefits

Since nurses are often a patient's first contact, they are in an ideal position to assist patients with case management services and can provide continuity in patient care.

References

• Nurse Practitioner/Advanced Practice Network: Definition and Characteristics of the Role
• "Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal," Case Managers' Perspectives on What They Need To Do Their Job; Lisa Yagoda, May 2004
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing: Your Nursing Career: A Look At the Facts
• The Internet Journal of Advanced Nursing Practice: Defining Nurse Practitioner Scope of Practice: Expanding Primary Care Services

Resources

• Case Management Society of America