Independent Practice vs Scope of Practice

[NurseKJ]

I have read numerous posts regarding NPs/DNPs having "independent practice" and how detrimental this would be for the patient, patient outcomes, ect, because NPs/DNPs are not qualified to practice independently.

I think the focus should be the scope of practice. An NP is qualified to practice independently within the scope of practice. I would encourage those who are worried about independent practice to look up the scope of practice for NPs on the state BON website- ie Arizona. here

(In other words, I believe the scope of practice keeps an NP from practicing a task/skill/knowledge base that he/she with her graduate nursing education is not qualified to do.)

After all, 30 years ago it may have been unheard of for a nurse to precipitate in a nurse run community health department/clinic.

I am interested in what you all think... thoughts?

[Jstand]

I agree completely. There is simply no need for supervising or collaborating physicians. The scope of practice is what sets them limit. Physicians are only necessary when there needs to be a referral for specialty care for a patient.

[eglide87]

I disagree. I have a scope of practice that allows me to manage ICU patients as well as perform numerous procedures, but that doesn't put me on the same level as a physician

[Jstand]

I disagree. I have a scope of practice that allows me to manage ICU patients as well as perform numerous procedures, but that doesn't put me on the same level as a physician

Nobody said that independent practice makes a nurse practitioner a physician.

[TX RN]

There is currently 3 different practice rights as an advanced practice nurse:

1. Independent

2. Collaboration

3. Supervision

All above delineated by the Board of Nursing Practice Act which defines Scope of Practice. Scope of practice is regulated by which of the practice rights you currently practice under.