What it means
In the United States, each state's board of nursing licenses nurses after they finish an approved program and pass the NCLEX. The license protects the public by setting minimum standards and allows discipline for unsafe practice. The Nurse Licensure Compact lets nurses in member states practice in other member states on one multistate license.
For the nurse
Keep your license current, practice within your state's scope, and know that the board can act on impairment, unsafe practice or dishonesty.
At a glance
| Spanish | licencia profesional |
|---|---|
| Also written | nursing license |
Related terms
registered nurse
A nurse who has passed the NCLEX-RN and holds a state license to practice as an RN.
licensed practical nurse
A nurse who has passed the NCLEX-PN and is licensed to give basic nursing care under an RN or other provider.
scope of practice
The actions and duties a licensed professional is legally allowed to perform.
competence
Having the knowledge, skill and judgment to do something well; in law, a person's ability to make their own decisions.