Which role is an advanced practice nurse with a master's or doctoral degree and an expanded scope of practice?

• A. Certified Nurse Midwives
• B. Clinical Nurse Specialists
• C. Nurse Practitioners
• D. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists

Answer: (C)

Advanced practice nursing roles with a master’s or doctoral degree are defined by an expanded scope that enables direct, autonomous patient care across a broad range of settings. The nurse practitioner role fits this description best because NPs are prepared to assess and diagnose patients, order and interpret tests, develop and manage treatment plans, and prescribe medications—often with substantial independent authority in primary care and various specialties, depending on the jurisdiction.

Other advanced practice roles exist with specialized focus—certified nurse-midwives concentrate on obstetric and gynecologic care; certified registered nurse anesthetists specialize in anesthesia; clinical nurse specialists provide expert care and consultation within a specific population or field—but the description of having a broad, autonomous scope of practice across diverse patient needs points most directly to the nurse practitioner role.