Practices in other states
Choose a state and review the scope of practice for the advanced practice nurse. How does it compare to Florida?
–Compare California to Florida
Submission Instructions:
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words,formatted and cited in current APA 7 style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
- Due Wednesday April 3 at 11:59pm
Comparing the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses (APNs) in California and Florida provides an insightful perspective into how different states regulate and authorize the roles and responsibilities of these healthcare professionals. This analysis explores the scope of practice for APNs in both states and highlights key similarities and differences.
California:
In California, APNs are known as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). The scope of practice for NPs is relatively broad compared to some other states. NPs in California have full practice authority, meaning they can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications independently without physician supervision. However, they must complete a transition to practice period under a collaborative agreement with a physician or experienced NP.
Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) in California have a scope of practice that emphasizes advanced clinical expertise in a specialized area of nursing practice. They can provide direct patient care, consult with other healthcare providers, and participate in research and education. CNSs do not typically have prescriptive authority but can collaborate with physicians in medication management.
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) in California have a broad scope of practice that includes providing prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care to women, as well as gynecological and primary care services. CNMs can also prescribe medications, including contraceptives, independently.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) in California have a scope of practice that includes administering anesthesia, managing patients’ airways, monitoring vital signs during surgery, and providing pain management services. CRNAs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, and obstetric units.
Florida:
In Florida, APNs are also referred to as Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNPs), and their scope of practice is regulated by the Florida Board of Nursing. However, unlike California, Florida requires ARNPs to work under the supervision of a physician. ARNPs in Florida have limited prescriptive authority and must have a written protocol with a supervising physician to prescribe controlled substances.
ARNPs in Florida can diagnose and treat patients, order diagnostic tests, and perform certain procedures within their specialty area. However, the requirement for physician supervision may restrict their autonomy compared to NPs in California.
Comparison:
In summary, the scope of practice for APNs in California, particularly NPs, is generally broader and more autonomous compared to Florida. California allows NPs to practice independently without physician supervision, while Florida requires ARNPs to work under physician supervision. Additionally, California NPs have full prescriptive authority, whereas ARNPs in Florida have limited prescriptive authority and must have a written protocol with a supervising physician for prescribing controlled substances. Overall, these differences reflect the variation in state regulations and the level of autonomy granted to APNs in different parts of the United States.