2026 AANP FNP Exam Blueprint
The AANP FNP exam is divided into four domains :
Domain Percentage Focus Areas
Assessment 32% Subjective/objective data collection, history taking, physical
exam, diagnostic testing
Diagnosis 26.5% Differential diagnosis, definitive diagnosis, interpreting results
Plan 26.5% Treatment plans, pharmacologic/non-pharmacologic therapies,
referrals, patient education
Evaluation 15% Treatment effectiveness, modifying plans, follow-up
monitoring
The exam has 150 questions (15 are pretest/unscored). The pass rate in 2023 was
73% .
📝 AANP FNP Practice Questions 2026 (Questions 1-80)
,Section 1: Professional Role & Scope (Questions 1-10)
Question 1. A patient asks the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) about the
difference between an FNP and a physician assistant (PA). Which statement
accurately describes a key difference in educational preparation?
A) FNPs are trained in the medical model; PAs are trained in the nursing model
B) FNPs are educated in a nursing model with a focus on health promotion; PAs
are educated in a medical model
C) FNPs cannot prescribe controlled substances; PAs can
D) FNPs require physician supervision in all states; PAs practice independently
Answer: B) FNPs are educated in a nursing model with a focus on health
promotion and disease prevention; PAs are educated in a medical model
Rationale: FNPs are prepared in graduate-level nursing programs based on the
nursing model, emphasizing holistic care, health promotion, and prevention. PAs
are educated in the medical model, similar to physicians, focusing on disease
diagnosis and treatment .
Question 2. Which federal law allows qualified FNPs to prescribe buprenorphine
for opioid use disorder?
,A) Controlled Substances Act
B) Ryan Haight Act
C) Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA)
D) Affordable Care Act
Answer: C) Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA)
Rationale: CARA expanded buprenorphine prescribing authority to qualified nurse
practitioners and physician assistants, increasing access to medication-assisted
treatment for opioid use disorder .
Question 3. According to the AANP Standards of Practice, the FNP's scope of
practice is determined by:
A) Only the employing institution
B) The FNP's personal preference
C) State Nurse Practice Act, national certification, and educational preparation
D) Supervising physician's discretion
, Answer: C) State Nurse Practice Act, national certification, and educational
preparation
Rationale: FNP scope of practice is defined by the state Nurse Practice Act,
national certification, educational preparation, and institutional policies .
Question 4. An FNP who practices beyond their competency may be at risk for:
A) Professional recognition
B) Increased patient satisfaction
C) Malpractice liability
D) Improved clinical outcomes
Answer: C) Malpractice liability
Rationale: Practicing beyond one's competency increases the risk of medical
errors, adverse patient outcomes, and subsequent malpractice liability .
Question 5. Which of the following is an essential element of informed consent
obtained by the FNP?