Description
The mission of state/regional boards of nursing, including those governing advanced nursing practice in my state of residence, Pennsylvania, is centered on protecting the public by regulating and overseeing the practice of nursing. In Pennsylvania, the State Board of Nursing is crucial in defining the parameters, standards, and expectations for advanced nursing practice (NCSBN, n.d.). Reflecting on this mission, several key aspects come to the forefront; for example, The State Board of Nursing in Pennsylvania sets licensure requirements for advanced practice nurses (APNs), including nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, and nurse anesthetists. These requirements ensure that APNs possess the necessary education and training to provide safe and effective care to the public (NCSBN, n.d.).
The Pennsylvania Board of Nursing outlines the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses. This includes specifying the duties and responsibilities that APNs are authorized to perform, emphasizing the need for competence and adherence to ethical standards in delivering healthcare services. The State Board of Nursing in Pennsylvania requires nurse practitioners to have collaborative agreements with physicians during the initial period of clinical practice. This collaborative model is designed to provide a supportive framework while allowing for the development of autonomous practice over time, balancing the need for collaboration with the potential for increased independence.
The regulations address the prescribing authority of advanced practice nurses, defining the conditions under which they can prescribe medications. This includes collaboration with physicians and adherence to guidelines for safe prescribing practices. The board emphasizes the importance of continuing education for APNs to maintain licensure. Additionally, certification from recognized national certifying bodies is often required, demonstrating ongoing competence and commitment to professional development (NCSBN, n.d.).
Quality Assurance and Peer Review: Participating in quality assurance and peer review processes is integral to the regulatory mission. APNs are expected to contribute to maintaining and enhancing the quality of care, aligning with the broader goal of protecting the public by ensuring competence and accountability.
Upholding ethical standards is a critical aspect of nursing practice. Boards of nursing are responsible for establishing and enforcing a code of ethics for nurses, fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and patient-centered care (Milstead & Short, 2019).
However, the mission of state boards of nursing in Pennsylvania is dedicated to safeguarding the public through regulating advanced nursing practice. By establishing clear standards, ensuring ongoing competence, and promoting ethical and accountable practice, these boards contribute to the overall quality and safety of healthcare delivery in the state.
Consider how key regulations may impact nursing practice.
The regulation of advanced nursing practice in Pennsylvania is governed by the state’s nursing practice laws and regulations, as well as specific guidelines provided by the State Board of Nursing. The impact of key nursing regulations on advanced nursing practice in Pennsylvania includes several aspects:
Advanced practice nurses (APNs) in Pennsylvania must meet specific education and certification requirements for licensure. The State Board of Nursing outlines the criteria for licensure, which generally includes completing a master’s or doctoral program in nursing and obtaining national certification in the relevant advanced practice role (e.g., nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist). The State Board of Nursing defines the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses in Pennsylvania. This includes outlining the duties and responsibilities that APNs are authorized to perform, such as conducting assessments, making diagnoses, ordering and interpreting tests, and prescribing medications. Understanding and adhering to the defined scope of practice is crucial for legal and ethical practice.
Pennsylvania requires nurse practitioners to collaborate with a physician for the first 3,600 hours of clinical practice or the first two years of practice, whichever comes first. After meeting these requirements, nurse practitioners may transition to a practice agreement allowing greater autonomy. The regulations in Pennsylvania specify the conditions under which advanced practice nurses, particularly nurse practitioners, can prescribe medications. This includes outlining the types of medications that can be prescribed, prescribing conditions, and any collaborative agreements or restrictions on independent prescribing.
Like other nurses in Pennsylvania, advanced practice nurses must engage in continuing education activities to maintain licensure. Continuing education ensures that APNs stay current with developments in healthcare, evidence-based practices, and advancements in their specialized fields. The State Board of Nursing in Pennsylvania typically requires advanced practice nurses to obtain national certification from recognized certifying bodies specific to their roles and specialties. National certification proves the nurse’s advanced education and competence (Neff et al., 2018).
Advanced practice nurses may be required to participate in quality assurance and peer review processes as part of their professional responsibilities. This involvement contributes to maintaining and improving the quality of care APNs provide. In Pennsylvania, the ability of advanced practice nurses to practice autonomously is influenced by regulations and collaborative agreements. Nurse practitioners may transition to an autonomous practice agreement after meeting specific requirements outlined by the State Board of Nursing. Advanced practice nurses in Pennsylvania may undergo a credentialing and privilege process when working in healthcare institutions. This process assesses qualifications and competence to ensure that APNs meet institutional standards. Regulations underscore the importance of collaboration between advanced practice nurses and other healthcare professionals, emphasizing the significance of teamwork and coordinated care within interdisciplinary settings. It is crucial for advanced practice nurses in Pennsylvania to stay informed about changes in regulations and to adhere to the established guidelines to ensure legal and ethical practice. Regulations may evolve, so ongoing awareness and compliance are essential for providing high-quality care and maintaining professional licensure (Milstead & Short, 2019).
Review key regulations for nursing practice of your state’s/region’s board of nursing and those of at least one other state/region and select at least two APRN regulations to focus on for this Discussion.
In Maryland, APRNs are called Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNPs). CNPs must hold a registered nurse (RN) license in Maryland and complete an accredited CNP program. APRNs must obtain national certification in their specialized area of practice. Maryland grants nurse practitioners full practice authority, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and treat patients without a collaborative agreement with a physician. This regulation aims to enhance access to care by recognizing the autonomy and expertise of nurse practitioners.
Pennsylvania’s requirement for nurse practitioners to have collaborative agreements during the initial practice phase is a key regulation. It reflects a transitional approach toward autonomy, ensuring new nurse practitioners have support and collaboration with physicians as they gain experience. Maryland’s regulation granting nurse practitioners full practice authority is significant. It acknowledges nurse practitioners’ advanced education, training, and competence, allowing them to practice independently and contribute to addressing healthcare needs, especially in underserved areas.
These regulations highlight the ongoing evolution of APRN practice regulations, with some states moving toward granting more autonomy to nurse practitioners to meet the growing demand for healthcare services. The balance between collaboration and autonomy is critical in shaping effective and accessible healthcare delivery models. It’s essential to stay informed about any updates or changes to these regulations as healthcare policies evolve.
