Expanding Role of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Raises New Liability Concerns

The health care industry is witnessing a significant transformation with advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) stepping into roles traditionally filled by physicians. This shift is in response to the growing physician shortage and the increasing demand for health care services. As of November 2023, the United States boasts 385,000 licensed APRNs, a number that has seen a remarkable increase over the past decade. This surge is a boon for patient care but introduces new professional liability exposures for these health care professionals.

APRNs, encompassing nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists, are increasingly autonomous in providing patient care. Over half of the U.S. states now grant full-practice authority to APRNs, allowing them to operate without the direct supervision of a physician. While this autonomy is celebrated, it simultaneously elevates their exposure to professional liability risks, previously more familiar to physicians and surgeons. The potential for malpractice suits, coupled with the impact of social inflation driving higher court payouts, underscores the importance of professional liability insurance for APRNs.

Risk management for APRNs is emerging as a critical concern. Strategies to mitigate these risks include understanding the scope of practice variations across states, aligning hospital policies with state laws, and ensuring that APRNs are properly integrated into the health care team. The professional liability risks of APRNs are not yet as well-documented as those of physicians, making it imperative for risk managers to proactively address these exposures.

Despite these challenges, APRNs continue to excel in their roles. Research suggests that female health care professionals, who make up a significant portion of the APRN workforce, may face fewer professional liability claims than their male counterparts. This could be attributed to better patient rapport, a critical factor in reducing the likelihood of malpractice suits. As the APRN role continues to evolve, understanding and managing their professional liability risks becomes paramount for ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of patient care in the changing health care landscape.