Assistant Professor of Nursing & Interim FNP Coordinator Dr. Erin Shankel was recently interviewed for a story that was published on nursepractitionerschools.com. The article, “Tennessee NPs: The Fight for Full Practice Authority,” highlights the differences in practice authority between Tennessee and other states. Five nursing professors from across the state, including Shankel, are featured throughout the piece.Shankel shares her support for full APRN practice authority, citing not her own opinion, but existing evidence that supports the stance. “Despite claims from opponents, research shows that NPs provide care that is not only safe, but patient-centered, relational, and holistic, not to mention often preferred by the patient,” she said. Shankel closes with specific steps professionals can take to further this cause including advocating for legislative transparency and supporting the Tennessee Nurses Association.