https://www.researchgate.net/publication/14337489_The_history_of_the_neonatal_nurse_practitioner_in_the_United_States

I obtained this article for my research into my APRN specialty, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. I also subscribe to Neonatal Network as a publication I use for my current role as a Neonatal Intensive Care RN. Therefore, I have this article in the publication in my collection. I hope it give insight into the specialty I am pursuing.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) has risen to epidemic rates in the U.S. and is under-reported. The data for 28 states, reported in this article, indicates these trends. The use of ICD-9 codes are discussed in diagnostic data of in-patient cases. The codes have helped place a diagnosis for these cases, yet it is difficult to determine from data whether the opioids are prescribed or illicit use. The focus of the article deals with the marked increase in incidence and the CDC's involvement in addressing this as a public health issue.

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6531a2.htm

This article's title is figurative, yet descriptive of the actual role progression to transition to NNP APRN from expert NICU RN. This includes change in care delivery to care provision. The change in experience includes a new phase of learning, with the expert nurse as a returning student. The daunting perspective of assuming new responsibilities combines with the need for assurance that one is ready for this new role, when tiny lives are at stake. The article acknowledges the experienced NICU nurse as able to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, with the APRN role as the next phase of collaboration. The origins of NNP are discussed and theoretical aspects of role transition are described. The box on page 27 summarizes "Strategies for Transition", to help with educational and initial practice goals.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/0730-0832.21.2.21