Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam 2026 – Complete Practice Resource

The determination of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) scope of practice is primarily the responsibility of each state's board of nursing. This is founded in the principle of state-based regulation of nursing practice in the United States. Each board of nursing has the authority to define and regulate what constitutes the scope of practice for various nursing specialties, including APRNs.

The boards establish rules and guidelines that can vary significantly from state to state, allowing local regulations to reflect specific healthcare needs and policies. As a result, the scope of practice for APRNs can differ in terms of autonomy, the ability to prescribe medications, and the acceptance of various roles, like independent practice versus collaborative agreements with physicians.

While the federal government may set overarching healthcare policies and the American Nurses Association may provide guidelines and advocacy for nursing practices, the direct determination and enforcement of scope of practice for APRNs are vested in state boards of nursing. Additionally, while private healthcare organizations may have their guidelines, they cannot alter the legally defined scope of practice set by state nursing boards.