Actions or duties of advanced practice nurses

Scope of practice issues address the actions or duties of advanced practice nurses.  The term scope of practice legally refers to permissible boundaries of practice for the advanced practice nurse, and the scope of practice is defined by statute, rule, or a combination of statute and rule.

Clearly describe an issue facing advanced practice nurses related to scope of practice. After describing the issue, please answer the following questions.  Discussion questions (links to objective #1).

What ethical impact does the issue have on direct patient care?   What legal perspectives could arise?  Please provide specific examples for each question.

• Describe any law or legal issue surrounding this policy issue.
• Decide how this policy would affect your specific role as an advanced practice nurse.
• Describe any changes you would make to your selected health policy issue. Please provide rationale for each cited change.
• How do nurse practice acts provide for consumer protection and for nursing advancement?
• Does the state board of nursing have the authority to change the practice of professional nursing?