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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Alaska

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Alaska

Alaskans give their state high marks for satisfaction with their standard of living, and it’s no wonder: they’re surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife, have plenty of job opportunities and all the same comforts as residents of the lower 48, and even get paid to live there!

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How to get your Alaska nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

If you are a resident of Alaska or are considering pursuing your nursing degree in the state, Alaska’s Board of Nursing provides a helpful list of local accredited nursing programs. Whether you choose to attend an in-state school or complete your nursing education elsewhere, a two-year associate’s degree or baccalaureate program is the key to moving forward with a rewarding career as a registered nurse.

Step 2: Apply

Alaska’s Board of Nursing accepts both online and paper applications for licensure by examination. At any time during the application process you can register with Pearson VUE to take the NCLEX exam and pay the registration fee of $200. You can do this online at or by phone at 1-866-496-2539. 

If applying using a paper application, the Board must receive the following before your application will be considered:

  • Completed, notarized application and fees 
  • Authorization for Release of Records
  • Fingerprint and background reports
  • A completed Nursing Program Verification form sent from your school of nursing 
  • Official transcript 

Alaska’s fees can be paid via credit card information submitted with the form or via a check made out to the State of Alaska in the amount of $375.00 ($100 application fee, $200 license fee, and $75 fingerprint processing fee).

Online applications have the same requirements that can be completed through the state’s online portal after establishing a myAlaska Account. Information can be provided and fees submitted online, but the Notarized Signature Page and Nursing Program Verification Form need to be printed out, completed, and mailed separately to:

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

A completed Nursing Program Verification and an official transcript must be sent directly from the school that you attended to the Board of Nursing. The graduation date and type of degree conferred must be included on the transcript. Electronic transcripts can be sent to [email protected], or paper transcripts can be sent to:  

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

Your registered nurse license application must be accompanied by a complete fingerprint card provided by the State of Alaska or the standard FBI Form FD-258. Take the card, the instructions, and photo identification to a local law enforcement agency or other authorized agency to have the fingerprinting done. Additional instructions can be found here. The completed card should be sent directly to:

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Approximately 48 hours after your application for licensure by exam is complete and you have been approved, the Alaska Board of Nursing will notify Pearson VUE that you are eligible to take the test and they will email you Authorization to Test. You will be able to schedule yourself to sit for the exam.

Taking and passing the NCLEX exam is the final step on your road to becoming a registered nurse. The test confirms that you have learned all of the information necessary to provide care to patients, including the following topics addressed during your nursing education: 

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation 

After you’ve passed the NCLEX, your permanent license will be issued. If you fail to pass the NCLEX, you can register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee to retake the exam 45 days after your last attempt. You can take the NCLEX as many as eight times per year but must pass it within three years of having graduated nursing school.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

If you are a registered nurse who is currently licensed in another state, you can apply for Alaska licensure by endorsement either online or using a paper application.  

If applying using a paper application, the Board must receive the following before your application will be considered: 

  • Your completed, notarized application and fees 
  • Authorization for Release of Records
  • Fingerprint and background reports
  • Verification of Licensure
  • Verification of Employment 

Alaska’s fees can be paid via credit card information submitted with the form or via a check made out to the State of Alaska in the amount of $375.00 ($100 application fee, $200 license fee, and $75 fingerprint processing fee).

Online applications have the same requirements, and can be completed through the state’s online portal after establishing a myAlaska Account. Information can be provided and fees submitted online, but the Notarized Signature Page, fingerprints, and verification of licensure must be submitted separately, with any hard copies sent to:

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Verification of Licensure: If your original nursing license was held in a state that participates with the NURSYS system, verification can be requested through that process. Nurses holding licenses in non-participating states must obtain a certified true copy of their current license.

To obtain a “certified true copy,” a notary public must compare the original to the photocopy. The notary must write “I certify this to be a true copy of the original document” on the photocopy and attest to the fact by signing and notarizing the document. If the notary will not certify the copy, you may certify that it is a true copy of the original and have your signature notarized. Be sure that the notary signs and seals the document with an official seal. This should be sent to:

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Criminal Background Check: Your application for licensure by endorsement must be accompanied by a complete fingerprint card provided by the State of Alaska or the standard FBI Form FD-258. Take the card, the instructions, and photo identification to a local law enforcement agency or other authorized agency to have the fingerprinting done. Additional instructions can be found here. The completed card should be sent directly to:

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Applicants who have submitted a completed application and fees, the Authorization for Release of Records, Fingerprints, and Verification of Licensure will be issued a non-renewable temporary permit that is valid for six months.

How to renew your Alaska nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Alaska’s registered nursing licenses are issued for a two-year period. They expire on November 30 of even-numbered years except for licenses issued within 90 days of the expiration date: those licenses are issued to the next biennial expiration date. The two-year license renewal fee is $200, though a prorated rate of $100 is available for those whose license was issued after December 1st of the preceding odd year. 

A renewal notice will be mailed at least 60 days before license expiration to the last known address of record.

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

Alaska offers several options for meeting the state’s continuing competency requirements. Nurses can select two of the following three activities:

  • 320 hours of compensated nursing employment and 30 contact hours of continuing education in nursing and 30 hours of professional nursing activities hours performed between December 1, 2020, and November 30, 2022
  • Completion of a Board-approved nursing refresher course 
  • Attaining a degree or certificate in nursing or completing at least six academic credits required for the degree or certificate 

Nurses who passed the NCLEX in the previous two-year period or whose registered nursing license was issued on or after December 1 of the previous odd-numbered year are exempt from the continuing competency requirements.

Incredible Health offers Alaska nurses free continuing education credits. They are easy to access and, once completed, provide immediate certificates for your records.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

Alaska nurses can renew their applications using a paper application that must be returned by the expiration date. There is no grace period.

License renewal applications can be sent to:

Alaska Board of Nursing
550 W. 7th Ave.
Ste. 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501

Alaska nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Alaska whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Alaska from another state. For more information visit the Alaska licensing page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX fee: $200
  • Application fee: $100
  • License fee: $200
  • Fingerprint processing fee: $75

Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

  • Application fee: $100
  • License fee: $200
  • Fingerprint processing fee: $75
  • Temporary permit: $0
  • License verification: $30
  • APRN fees: $500 (total)

*Fees are subject to change.

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Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN/APRN: 2 of the following are required every 2 years:

  • 30 contact hours;
  • 320 hours documents nursing employment;
  • 30 hours in professional activities or volunteer work

APRNs with prescriptive authority are required 12 contact hours in advanced pharmacology and 12 contact hours in the clinical management of patients, which may be counted as part of the 30 contact hours.

In addition, to renew a valid federal DEA registration number 2 hours in pain management and opioid use and addiction, are required.

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Alaska Board of Nursing accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.

How to contact the Alaska Board of Nursing

Alaska Board of Nursing
Office Assistant
[email protected]
Fax: (907) 269-8156

Robert B. Atwood Building
550 W. 7th Avenue, Suite 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501-3567

More Alaska Resources

Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

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Nurse Symbols 101: A Brief History

Nursing pins, medical jewelry, and even scrubs proudly display the symbols representing the power and responsibility of nurses. When you see a person wearing one of these symbols, there is instant identification. Even if a nurse is not in scrubs and on the job, you know what they do for a living just by seeing one of the symbols.

Two symbols are synonymous with nursing: the caduceus and the oil lamp. Each has a different origin story and meaning. Let’s take a look at each of these nursing symbols and dive into their history.

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The caduceus: the most recognized nursing symbol

In Greek mythology, Hermes was the god of boundaries. One of his most important tasks was to guide the souls of the deceased into the afterlife. He was often depicted with a caduceus in his left hand. The caduceus is an odd-looking staff that is entwined by two serpents. Some versions also include a pair of wings at the top of the staff.

If you are wondering what a snake has to do with medicine, you’re not alone.  In ancient Greece, the snake represented longevity and immortality. While the medical profession is not in the business of making you immortal, it does help prolong your life. Another possibility for the snake has religious roots. Moses carried a pole with a bronze serpent on it that he used to cure people who were bitten by snakes in 1400 BC. In both examples, the snake as a representation of healing makes sense.  

In 1902, the Medical Department of the United States adopted the caduceus as its official symbol. All medical officer uniforms included the caduceus. Other U.S. medical divisions use the caduceus, including the U.S. Navy Pharmacy Division, U.S. Military Nurses, and the U.S. Public Health Service.

Medical doctors, nurses, and other healthcare practitioners have associated this symbol with their profession for centuries. Turns out, it was a bit of a mistake to connect the caduceus to the practice of medicine.

The caduceus “oops” factor

Examining the design elements within the caduceus helps with understanding why medical practitioners adopted the symbol. At one point in history, roughly 76% of all healthcare professions were using the caduceus. Others have come to realize the mistake in doing so and have shifted their medical branding to another symbol that makes more sense: the Staff of Asclepius.

So, what does the Staff of Asclepius have that the caduceus does not? The short answer is one less snake. In addition to that, the Staff of Asclepius was carried by a skilled physician who was revered as a Greco-Roman god of healing. Despite this misclassification, some professional medical organizations and providers continue to use the caduceus due to the public’s association with it as a symbol of healthcare providers. 

The oil lamp: a lesser-known symbol

When you talk about the history of nursing and nursing symbols, you must include one of the most famous women in British history. Florence Nightingale is credited as the founder of modern nursing practice and is synonymous with the oil lamp. Why a lamp? She often cared for the sick and injured during the nighttime hours, carrying a lamp with her so she could see.

Florence Nightingale’s dedication to her craft paved the way for all future nurses. She shared her medical skills and compassion with those who needed them most, regardless of the situation.  She inspired other young women to enter the nursing profession, providing them with a training school where they could learn their craft.

To this day, nurses entering the healthcare field recite “The Florence Nightingale Pledge.” They also may receive a lamp pin at their nursing school graduations to symbolize the importance of this nursing pioneer. Some professional nursing organizations, including the International Council for Nurses, use the lamp in their official logos.

Traditional cap and uniform

While they are no longer in circulation, we would be remiss if we did not discuss the identifying qualities of the traditional cap and uniform for nurses. Watch any old TV show with nurses and you undoubtedly will spy nurses wearing the tell-tale nursing cap atop their heads. 

Nursing caps were originally a nod to the deaconesses who attended and cared for the sick and dying. Florence Nightingale wanted to honor the tradition while at the same time giving nurses a distinguishable look. The caps were also practical as they helped keep a nurse’s hair neatly in place. Traditional caps are “old hat” in nursing today and were exchanged for skull caps that offer greater protection to patients.

Starched white nursing uniforms, complete with stockings and white shoes, are how nurses dressed during Florence Nightingale’s days in the profession. These restrictive uniforms began to shift in style in the 1950s and 1960s, especially with more men entering the profession. By the 1990s, scrubs were introduced and became an instant hit among nurses for their comfort.

Explore career options in nursing and work at the job of your dreams – no starched uniform or cap required! 

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Bioethics in Nursing

Every nurse who puts on scrubs must abide by a specific code of conduct. The American Nurses Association outlines these standards or ethics. While there are these codes, they do not always align with bioethics in nursing.

What is Bioethics

Bioethics involves big picture moral dilemmas faced by the medical community. Nursing ethics deal with individual ethical dilemmas that arise from situations between a care provider and patient.

The field bioethics field wrestles with questions such as:

  • What is the right thing to do?
  • What is worthwhile?
  • Who is responsible, to whom and for what?
  • What are our obligations to one another?
  • What is the fitting response to this moral dilemma, given the context?
  • On what moral grounds are such claims made?

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Euthanasia

This procedure has gained greater prominence over the years. A controversial practice, euthanasia involves terminating a patient’s life to limit their suffering.

The term derives from the Greek words “eu” (good) and “Thanatos” (death). Rather than having a patient endure a slow, painful death, they allow for a peaceful, dignified, or “good death.”

There are two types of euthanasia. The first type is called active euthanasia, which involves killing a patient by active means, for example, giving a patient a lethal dose of a drug.

The other type of euthanasia happens when a clinician withholds life support from a patient, such as a ventilator. This issue corresponds to the ethic of beneficence.

Medical Resource Distribution

Since medical resources are limited, not everyone can receive the proper resources. Therefore, the health care system has its rationing system to help determine how resources get allocated. For example, there are often waiting lists for organ transplants ordered by level of need.

This issue directly correlates to the justice principle along with the principle of beneficence.

Treating Minors

Generally, health care workers need to maintain confidentiality and receive informed consent from patients before treatment. However, when the patient is a minor, this complicates the matter. Do minors have a right to make choices apart from their parents’ knowledge?

While some people believe that minors should have the agency to make decisions for themselves, other people think that parents should have the final say and children shouldn’t have privacy.

One other issue involves whether or not health care providers should overrule the decision-making of the parent. This happens if the care provider believes a procedure is in the best interest of the child.

This practice aligns with the principle of autonomy.

Eugenics

Through gene manipulation and selection, scientists can improve genetic quality. However, the question becomes whether or not scientists should take advantage of this. For example, a scientist can change or remove genes from an embryo to prevent certain diseases.

However, when scientists can wipe out negative traits, it could lead to a slippery slope.

Eugenics corresponds to the principle of beneficence.

Final Word on Bioethics in Nursing

Nurses often don’t work in silos. They have a community of thinkers and clinicians to consult when making bioethical decisions. If you are a nurse searching for an organization to become a part of, sign up for Incredible Health to get started finding a job you love to do.

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At Incredible Health, it's a team effort to achieve our vision: Help healthcare professionals live better lives. Many are licensed practitioners themselves; others are simply passionate writers and leaders dedicated to providing valuable resources to nurses.

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A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in Oklahoma

Career Resources / Nursing Licensure / Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s low housing and rental costs and overall low cost of living are just a few of the reasons why it’s a great place to live and work. The state’s residents enjoy all four seasons, with an average of 234 sunny days per year. Crime rates are low, education is a top priority, and there are plenty of wide-open spaces.

In this article, we will cover:

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How to get your Oklahoma nursing license by examination

Step 1: Education

Oklahoma boasts many accredited programs where you can earn your nursing degree. Whether you opt for an associate degree program, a baccalaureate program, or attend an out-of-state school, once your graduation is in sight it is time to begin the licensure application process. The Oklahoma Board of Nursing recommends that you submit your application for licensure by examination approximately two months before graduation in order to provide adequate time for processing. 

Step 2: Apply

Applications for licensure by examination are submitted online via the Nurse Portal, and all supporting documentation can be uploaded there as well. You will be asked to provide a Social Security number on the application, as well as either evidence of U.S. citizenship or of being a qualified alien. 

You will also be asked to:

  • Pay an $85 application fee
  • Submit to a background check
  • Ensure that an official transcript is provided by your nursing program to the Board
  • Register for the NCLEX exam

Step 3: Submit Transcripts

Though many Oklahoma-based nursing education programs automatically submit graduate transcripts to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing after graduating a class of students, this is a courtesy rather than a requirement. If you attended an Oklahoma nursing program, it is your responsibility to check with the director of the program to see whether this has been done.

Graduates of out-of-state programs should ask that the school send an official copy of their transcript to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. These graduates must also submit course descriptions for all nursing and related courses for the Board’s evaluation.

All transcripts must include the conferral date of the degree earned. 

Transcripts should be sent to: 

Oklahoma Board of Nursing
2501 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 207
Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Step 4: Criminal Background Check (CBC)

All candidates for nurse licensure are required to submit fingerprints so that a state and national criminal background check can be conducted by both the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the FBI. Fingerprints cannot be submitted more than ninety days prior to submitting your application for licensure. 

Oklahoma residents can make appointments to have their fingerprints processed at an Idemia-sponsored IdentoGO center within the state by visiting the company’s website or by phone at 1-(877)-219-0197.  

Out-of-state residents will be mailed fingerprint cards that must be taken to a local law enforcement agency. You must use these specific cards as well as the self-addressed envelope provided. The agency that collects your fingerprints will use this envelope to mail them directly to an Idemia-sponsored IdentoGO center. You are responsible for postage and processing fees. 

Step 5: Take the NCLEX

Once your application is complete, the Oklahoma Board of Nursing will notify Pearson VUE that you are eligible to proceed with the NCLEX test and Pearson VUE will email you an Authorization to Test. You have 90 days from receipt of this authorization to schedule and take the NCLEX exam, which confirms your readiness to move forward with your nursing career. The test covers many subjects, all of which are covered by accredited nursing programs. Topics include: 

  • Safe and Effective Care Environment
  • Management of Care  
  • Safety and Infection Control 
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance 
  • Psychosocial Integrity 
  • Physiological Integrity 
  • Basic Care and Comfort 
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies 
  • Physiological Adaptation 

Once you have passed the NCLEX examination, your Oklahoma registered nurse license will be issued. If you do not pass the NCLEX, you will need to complete an application for re-writing the licensure examination at the Nurse Portal and pay a $85 fee, as well as complete an NCLEX registration through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 testing fee. Candidates can retake the exam up to eight times per year but must wait 45 days between testing dates.

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Licensing by endorsement (already have RN licensure)

If you are licensed in another state and wish to be licensed in the state of Oklahoma, you will need to submit an application for licensure by endorsement. This application can be submitted online through the Nurse Portal. You can also request a paper copy of the application by submitting a written request to the Board office at: 

2501 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 207
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

You must include a postage-paid 8 ½ x 11-inch return envelope. 

To qualify for licensure by endorsement, you will need to provide:

  • Verification of citizenship status.
  • Proof of graduation from a state board-approved program of registered nursing in the form of an official transcript submitted directly from the program to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Transcript must show the diploma or degree and the date conferred.
  • Verification of completion of the licensure examination.
  • Verification of licensure from your original state of licensure. If the state participates with NURSYS, request verification through their website. Nurses licensed in non-participating states should request verification be sent by the licensing state’s board to the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing at:

2501 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 207
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

  • Evidence of continuing qualifications for practice in the form of having met one of the following requirements in the last five years:
    • An official transcript or certificate of completion of a Board-approved nurse refresher course.
    • Having passed the NCLEX
    • An official transcript verifying successful completion of at least six academic semester credit hours of nursing courses including both classroom and clinical instruction 
    • Employment Verification Form and accompanying job description demonstrating at least 520 work hours in a position requiring nurse licensure during the past five years. This must be submitted directly to the Board by the employer.
    • Evidence of having completed at least 24 hours of continuing education applicable to nursing practice
    • Current certification in a nursing specialty area.
  • If you took and passed the NCLEX for initial licensure within the last two years, you must provide one of the following:
    • Evidence of completion of the nursing education program within two years of initial application for licensure by examination
    • Employment Verification Form of at least six months work experience in the state, U.S. territory, or country of licensure
    • Successful completion of a Board-approved refresher course
    • Successful completion of a nursing program

How to renew your Oklahoma nursing license

Step 1: When to submit your renewal application

Oklahoma’s registered nursing licenses expire the last day of the licensee’s birth month in even-numbered years following the time that it was issued. A renewal reminder letter is sent approximately three months before the license expiration date. The fee is $75. 

If you prefer to use a paper renewal form or do not have a credit card or bank account, you can request that a hard-copy renewal form be mailed to you by submitting a letter of request and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing at:

2501 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 207
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

This letter of request must be received in the Board office at least one month before your expiration date; otherwise, you must renew online.

Step 2: Fulfill continuing competency requirements

To renew your nursing license, the Oklahoma Board of Nursing requires that you meet one of the following qualifications:

  •   Verification of having worked in a position requiring a registered nursing license for at least 520 work hours; or
  • Completion of at least 24 contact hours of continuing education applicable to nursing practice; or
  • Certification in a nursing specialty area; or
  • Completion of a Board-approved refresher course; or
  • Completion of at least six academic semester credit hours of nursing coursework at the licensee’s current level of licensure or higher.

When submitting your application for renewal you will be asked to verify that you have met the continuing qualifications for practice. If you are audited, you will be asked to provide supporting documentation, so keep all records.

To help you meet your continuing education requirements, Incredible Health offers free Oklahoma continuing education units. Once completed, the website provides immediate certificates for your records.

Step 3: Submit your renewal application

Your renewal application can be completed and your $75 fee submitted through the Nurse Portal.

Virginia nursing licensing fees

Below are the fees for becoming a nurse in Oklahoma whether you are a first-time nurse or are moving to Oklahoma from another state. For more information visit the Oklahoma licensing information page.

Licensing fees by examination (first-time nurses):

  • NCLEX exam fee: $200
  • Application fee: $85 (RN/LPN, $150 multistate)

Licensing fees by endorsement (already have RN licensure):

  • Application fees: $85 (RN/LPN, $150 multistate); $70 (APRN, $85 Rx authority)
  • Temporary license (if requested): $10

License renewal fees

  • Application fees: $75 (RN/LPN); $45 (APRN)

Additionally, Oklahoma is a nursing compact state, which allows nurses to hold multi-state licenses.

*Fees are subject to change.
**Most states require a background check, but prices are not always listed.

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Continuing education requirements

RN/LPN: 24 contact hours every 2 years; or

  • Provide proof of employment in a position that requires RNs/LPNs to verify 520 work hours every two years; or
  • Show proof of certification in a nursing specialty area; or
  • Complete refresher course that is Board-approved; or
  • Complete a minimum of six credit hours in nursing coursework that correlates with the nurse’s current level of licensure or higher

APRN:

  • 24 contact hours every 2 years (15 hours in pharmacotherapeutic); and 
  • 2 hours of education in pain management or 2 hours of education in opioid use or addiction
  • Maintain national certification
  • More information on APRN CE requirements at Oklahoma APRN CE requirements

Incredible Health offers ANCC-accredited continuing education courses for nurses in all 50 states, 100% free and online. The Oklahoma Board of Nursing accepts courses that are ANCC accredited.

How to contact the Oklahoma Board of Nursing

Oklahoma Board of Nursing
Phone: (405) 962-1800
Fax: (405) 962-1821

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://nursing.ok.gov/

2501 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 207
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

More Oklahoma Resources

Written by Andi Tailleart

Andi joined Incredible Health in April 2021, after earning her Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from Arizona State University. She has written for blogs, non-profit organizations, and academic papers. Andi is responsible for editing blog content for the Incredible Health website and thoroughly enjoys helping nurses get the information they need to succeed.

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Understanding the Nursing Scope of Practice

Career Resources / Nursing Scope of Practice

Nurses rarely claim boredom with their profession given the limitless opportunities that are available. From the variety of patients and healthcare settings to the nursing specialties you can pursue, there is nary a dull moment. Nurses can develop their craft, learn new skills, and challenge their knowledge every time they put on their scrubs and head to work.

One thing that never changes about nursing is the rules and regulations by which every nurse agrees to abide, or the nursing scope of practice. Once issued your nursing licensure and credentials, nurses must commit to continuing education and nursing best practices that ensure quality healthcare for their patients.

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What is the nursing scope of practice?

When we talk about the nursing scope of practice, we are not referring to the stethoscope you carry around your neck. The nursing scope of practice is a guidepost for professional nursing activities and best practices. Think of it this way: nursing scope of practice is the who, what, where, when, and why of nursing. That is how the American Nurses Association describes it. Here is how they explain each of the 5Ws included in the scope.

The “Who”

The “who” in the nursing scope of practice refers to Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Your nursing scope of practice depends on your education level, licensure, and credentialing.

The “What”

When you become licensed, you agree to protect and promote the health and well-being of your patients (among other things). That is the “what” of your service and commitment as a nursing professional.

The “Where”

This is the truly versatile part of the nursing scope of practice. We alluded to this earlier when we said nursing is never boring. You can work anywhere there is a patient in need of their care.

The “When”

You know from experience there is not much downtime in your profession. Whenever your compassion and expertise are needed, you are there.

The “Why”

This is very personal for nurses. You may choose to enter the profession because of your desire to help people, while others see it as an exciting and rewarding career choice. Regardless of your reason, nursing’s purpose is to deliver positive patient outcomes while delivering quality care.

What is the nursing scope of practice by nursing licensure?

The nursing scope of practice varies by nursing licensure and state. Checking with your state Board of Nursing is a reliable way to ensure you are following all regulations. Here are some commonalities many states share under their nursing scopes of practice by nursing licensure.

LPN

LPNs assist RNs and doctors by providing basic medical care to patients. Among the scope of services, most states deem LPNs competent to perform changing bandages, catheters, and IVs; checking vital signs; maintaining detailed records of patient health and progress; helping patients with daily living tasks like eating and bathing; reporting any changes in a patient’s condition to RNs or doctors. Some states permit LPNs to administer intravenous medications and fluids under the direction of an RN.

RN

RNs have both administrative and care duties. Among the scope of services for RNs in most states is administering and monitoring medications; developing care plans; taking vital signs and recognizing abnormalities; caring for wounds; performing basic life support. RNs who choose a specialty will have additional duties and expectations under the nursing scope of practice.

APRN

APRNs have many of the same responsibilities as doctors. As such, they are expected to perform complex patient care tasks like making diagnoses; ordering and interpreting diagnostic testing; managing patient care; prescribing medications. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners provides an outline of the nursing scope of service for APRNs. As with other licensures, APRNs may need to meet additional competencies under individual states’ scopes of nursing practice.

[MORE: Nursing Scope of Practice by State]

Why is the nursing scope of practice important?

Why is the nursing scope of practice important? Well, it is the gold standard for a nurse’s professional responsibilities and duties. While you may have heard this phrase at some point in your education or career, you may not fully understand its importance.

Some employers can push the limits of what nurses can legally do, which compromises patient safety and jeopardizes your nursing career. It is imperative you fully understand your nursing scope of practice and live by it to the letter.

What happens if you work outside the nursing scope of practice?

Knowing your duty of care not only keeps your patients safe but also keeps you out of hot water. Nurses who act outside the scope of service of the licensing or certifying body that governs their professional licenses risk losing their job, facing punitive damages, or possibly having their licenses revoked. They can also be held liable for negligence, malpractice, or breach of patient confidentiality. It is that serious.

Examples of working outside the scope of practice

Keep in mind that just because your employer says you can do something (or asks you to do something) does not mean you should do it. For instance, let’s say you are an LPN and your employer directs you to administer medication to a patient because they are short-staffed with RNs and having difficulty meeting patient care obligations. You have no formal education and have not consulted with an RN, which is the standard scope of practice for LPNs. Most states do not permit LPNs to administer prescription medications, making this a major breach of your nursing scope of practice. If you are caught, you will suffer penalties right along with your employer. It is simply not worth the risk.

The same applies to RNs who may execute certain procedures like X-rays or give medication without an order.

What is the future of the nursing scope of practice?

Nursing is a dynamic and complex healthcare profession. It only makes sense that as best practices for the delivery of healthcare services change, the nursing scope of practice will evolve. It is important to stay on top of your continuing education requirements so you can practice to the fullest extent of your education and abilities.  

FAQ

What is the nursing scope of practice?

The nursing scope of practice is a guidepost for professional nursing activities and best practices. It is the who, what, where, when, and why of nursing.

Why is the nursing scope of practice important?

It is the gold standard for a nurse’s professional responsibilities and duties. Nurses who act outside the scope of service risk losing their job, facing punitive damages, or possibly having their licenses revoked.

What are the consequences of working outside the nursing scope of practice?

Nurses who work outside their scope of practice and do not follow their state’s Nurse Practice Act face a range of repercussions ranging from a reprimand to revocation of license. They can also be held liable for negligence, malpractice, or breach of patient confidentiality.

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