Abstract:

This paper employs the SWOT analysis method to analyze the internal and external environments for the development of advanced practice nurses（APNs） in China. It clarifies the internal strengths and weaknesses，as well as external opportunities and threats，and proposes targeted development suggestions. The paper concludes that the notable strengths of APN development in China currently lie in the expansion of the specialist nursing workforce and the improvement in the educational qualifications of practitioners. However，shortcomings such as the incomplete education and training structure，inadequate management and certification systems，and issues of nurse shortages and talent loss represent major weaknesses. The direction of national strategies and healthcare system reforms，as well as the continuous growth in societal health needs，provide valuable opportunities for APN development. Yet，challenges such as the legitimacy process for the role of APNs is still in its infancy，and a lack of recognition for their role poses potential threats to their development. China should draw on advanced foreign concepts and methodologies，innovate the training model and management mechanism for APNs in accordance with national conditions，improve the certification system，and accelerate the process of role legitimacy of APNs. By enhancing the level of utilization of APNs and increasing societal recognition of their role，we can promote the sustained and healthy development of the APN field in China.

Key words: Advanced practice nurses, SWOT analysis, Nursing education, Specialty nurses