OMAN: The Emergence of the Clinical Nurse Specialist

Advanced practice nurses (APNs) contribute to improvements in the healthcare system. The International Council of Nurses defines an APN as a "registered nurse (RN) who has acquired the expert knowledge base, complex decision-making skills, and clinical competencies for extended practice, governed by the context and country in which a practice is credentialed."1 Internationally, a master's degree is the recommended entry level for APN practice.1 Considering the pivotal roles and impact of an APN embedded in any healthcare system, and coinciding with the global trend toward embracing APN practice, the Sultanate of Oman created a mission of introducing APN practice within its healthcare system. Many factors facilitated the development of the APN into the Omani healthcare system. In addition, many factors lead to underutilization of the full scope of practice of APNs in Oman. This article highlights both types of factors. Copyright © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.