What is scope of practice, and how can nurses ensure compliance at the state level?

• A. The salary and benefits of a nurse
• B. The range of activities a nurse is authorized to perform
• C. The number of patients allowed per shift
• D. The type of electronic chart used

Answer: (B)

Scope of practice is the range of activities a nurse is authorized to perform, based on education, licensure, and state regulations. It defines what you are permitted to do and the limits you must respect to provide safe, lawful care. To ensure compliance at the state level, know your state’s nurse practice act and board rules, understand which tasks are within your licensure and specialty, and seek appropriate delegation or supervision for anything outside your scope. Stay current with changes through continuing education and regular review of organizational policies, and document decisions and actions to demonstrate adherence. The other options relate to compensation, staffing, or technology, not to what a nurse is legally permitted to do.