Kindly respond to the following discussion post. 250words, apa format and 1-2 references Thank you. Nursing Scope of Practice is a set of rules/laws and regulations that nurses are required to follow while practicing as nurses. These rules/laws and regulations help guide our practice and help protect the patient as well as the nurse. Each state has its own laws and regulations according to licensure type. According to (“What is scope of practice?”, 2022) “Scope of Practice refers to those activities that a person licensed to practice as a health professional is permitted to perform, which is increasingly determined by statutes enacted by state legislatures and by rules adopted by the appropriate licensing entity”. As nurses we are responsible for practicing within our scope of practice, knowing how to access our scope of practice (Nurse Practice Act or BRN), and continuing our education to keep up with changes that occur in the current scope of practice so that we can provide our patients with safe and quality healthcare (Berg, 2022). If a nurse is asked to perform a duty/task that is not within his or her scope of practice the nurse should advise the practitioner/manager that they are unable to perform the duty/task as it does not fall within their scope of practice. If the nurse is unsure if the task falls within their scope, they should refer to the nurse practice act or the state board of registered nursing to review their scope of practice. Accepting or performing a task that is not within the nurse’s scope of practice can lead to patient harm as well as serious consequences for the nurse. Nurses who practice outside of their scope can lose their employment, face punitive damages, and possibly lose their license (Berg, 2022). As nurses, our main goal and focus should always be the patient’s safety and providing them with quality care. All healthcare providers should follow their scope of practice to provide the patient with the best possible care and enhance patient care outcomes. In my current position, I am employed as an LVN, and on several occasions, I have been asked to perform RN duties by other RNs, I just kindly remind them that I am employed as an LVN, and I am not allowed to perform RN duties at this time. References: Berg, S. (2022). . Incredible Health. Retrieved 17 August 2022, from . Westrick, S. J. (2013). (2nd ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.

In this discussion post, the author highlights the importance of nursing scope of practice and its role in guiding, protecting, and ensuring quality healthcare for patients. The author states that nursing scope of practice consists of rules, laws, and regulations that nurses must adhere to while practicing. These guidelines vary from state to state based on licensure type, and they are determined by state legislatures and licensing entities.

Practicing within one’s scope of practice is a fundamental responsibility of nurses. Accessing and familiarizing oneself with the nurse practice act or state board of registered nursing is essential to ensure compliance. Furthermore, nurses should stay updated on the changes and advancements in their scope of practice through continuing education. By doing so, nurses are better equipped to deliver safe and quality healthcare to their patients.

The author emphasizes the importance of nurses declining tasks that fall outside their scope of practice. If a nurse is asked to perform a duty or task that is beyond their authorized scope, they should communicate their inability to do so to the practitioner or manager. This is crucial to prevent patient harm and protect the nurse from potential consequences. Engaging in activities outside one’s scope may lead to adverse outcomes, loss of employment, punitive damages, or even loss of licensure.

The post highlights the ultimate goal of nursing: patient safety and providing high-quality care. Following the scope of practice is not only a legal and ethical obligation but also essential for enhancing patient care outcomes. Nurses should strive to deliver the best possible care by adhering to their designated roles and responsibilities.

In the author’s personal experience as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), instances have arisen where Registered Nurses (RNs) have asked them to perform tasks designated for RNs. The author appropriately reminds the RNs that they are employed as an LVN and are not authorized to perform RN duties. This response demonstrates the author’s commitment to practicing within their scope and upholding patient safety.

In conclusion, nursing scope of practice is a crucial framework that guides nurses in delivering safe and quality healthcare. It is based on rules, laws, and regulations specific to each state and licensure type. Nurses have a responsibility to conform to their scope of practice, access relevant resources, and stay updated on any changes. Deviating from one’s scope of practice can have severe consequences. By adhering to their roles and responsibilities, nurses contribute to patient safety and provide optimal care.