NPs have scopes of practice that are regulated by state laws, boards of nursing, boards of medicine and reimbursement that may differ depending on your location. There are several sources of restrictions to NP practice such as state laws and federal regulations which include who may prescribe controlled substances and which substances NPs can prescribe, as well as the various reimbursement agencies. It is essential that the NP be fully informed of what they are allowed to do by law (state and federal) or by other regulatory organizations. These regulations vary widely from state to state. Consequences of practicing outside your scope of practice may be anything from a fine, suspension or revocation of your license, civil lawsuit, or even criminal charges.

Directions

Use the provided template to compare and contrast the three major regulatory practice models for NPs: Supervisory, Collaborative, and Independent.