Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing

Invited Paper

Lessons from the US Advanced Practice Registered Nurse system: Eun-Ok Im, Dongmi Kim; J Korean Acad Nurs 2025;55(4):492-505. Published online November 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.25120

Abstract PDF ePub: Purpose
This review compares the development of South Korea’s Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) system the well-established APRN system in the United States and provides recommendations for future improvements to the APRN system in South Korea.
Methods
To compare the APRN systems between the two countries, an integrative literature review was conducted using multiple databases and professional nursing organization documents and reports from both the United States and South Korea.
Results
Issues were identified in five major domains: (1) research evidence, (2) education and training, (3) the scope of practice, (4) financial mechanisms, and (5) public awareness and acceptance.
Conclusion
Recommendations are made in four areas: (1) building evidence to support APRN programs; (2) strengthening APRN education; (3) establishing legal support and reimbursement mechanisms; and (4) improving public awareness and acceptance of APRNs.

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