Board of nursing

Board of Nursing is a regulatory body that oversees the practice of nursing within a specific jurisdiction, usually a state or country. The primary purpose of a Board of Nursing is to protect the public's health and welfare by ensuring that safe and competent nursing care is provided by licensed nurses.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of a Board of Nursing originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The first state to establish a Board of Nursing was New York in 1903, followed by North Carolina and New Jersey in 1904. Today, every state in the U.S. has a Board of Nursing, as do many other countries around the world.

Functions[edit | edit source]

The primary functions of a Board of Nursing include:

Licensing: The Board of Nursing is responsible for issuing licenses to qualified registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). This process usually involves verifying the applicant's education and passing a licensing examination, such as the NCLEX.

Regulation: The Board of Nursing sets standards for nursing education and practice, and enforces these standards through disciplinary actions. This can include revoking or suspending a nurse's license in cases of misconduct or incompetence.

Education: The Board of Nursing approves nursing education programs and continuing education requirements for nurses. It also provides resources and information to help nurses maintain their competency and stay up-to-date with changes in the field.

Structure[edit | edit source]

A Board of Nursing is typically composed of members who are appointed by the governor of the state or the relevant authority in the jurisdiction. The board usually includes registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, and public members who are not nurses but represent the interests of the public.

Challenges[edit | edit source]

Boards of Nursing face several challenges in fulfilling their mission. These include keeping pace with changes in healthcare and nursing practice, addressing nursing shortages, and dealing with issues related to nurse discipline and patient safety.