Abstract
This article describes the concept and function of the blended role advanced practice nurse as a unique synthesis of the clinical nurse specialist and the nurse practitioner. The blended role advanced practice nurse is viewed as a distinct new role that does not replace either critical nurse specialist or nurse practitioner. A short discussion of this role is followed by two clinical examples. A patient scenario describes how the blended role advanced practice nurse functions in a clinic setting, whereas an organizational project demonstrates how successful implementation of the role can be particularly effective when applied to palliative care of the patient with cancer. Implications for practice resulting from implementation of the blended role in palliative care are reviewed.