Book excerpt: Prepared under the auspices of the International Council of Nurses (ICN), this first volume provides a comprehensive overview of the rapidly emerging field of advanced nursing practice. It addresses central issues in the role and practice development that are fundamental to defining and differentiating the nature of this field. Topics include defining the role, role characteristics, scope of practice, education, regulation and research. Obstacles to and facilitators of that role are addressed and include ethical questions arising in the context of practice development. With an international focus, this volume examines international developments in the field, as reflected in country-specific case studies and examples. It offers a valuable resource for advanced practice nurses, educators and administrators at healthcare institutions.