This introductory course provides an overview of advanced practice nursing and the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner role- evolution. Professional issues and trends at the state and national levels will be analyzed. This course will focus on the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner's contributions to health, wellness, and health promotion among populations commonly served. Scope, standards and competencies will be addressed as well as licensure, accreditation and certification. The interaction of the AG-ACNP within the continuum of acute and critical care health care delivery system will be emphasized.