Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

Who has the authority to determine the scope of practice for nurses in a given state?

1. The federal government

2. State nursing boards

3. The local health department

4. The Association of American Medical Colleges

The correct answer is: State nursing boards

The authority to determine the scope of practice for nurses is vested in state nursing boards. Each state has its own board of nursing, which is responsible for regulating nursing practice within the state. These boards establish the standards and regulations that govern what nurses can and cannot do in their professional roles, influenced by state laws and the necessity to ensure public safety. State nursing boards issue licenses to practice nursing and monitor compliance with the established standards, ensuring that the nursing workforce is prepared to meet the healthcare needs of the community. This empowers each state to tailor its scope of practice according to specific local needs, which may vary across the country. Consequently, this authority plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of nursing care and public safety within the healthcare system. While the federal government and organizations like the Association of American Medical Colleges play significant roles in healthcare policy, they do not dictate the specific scope of practice for nurses. Local health departments have a focus on public health initiatives and do not have the regulatory powers that state nursing boards possess regarding nursing practice.