Which statement identifies the authority responsible for setting nursing practice standards at the state level?

Which statement identifies the authority responsible for setting nursing practice standards at the state level?

• A. Statutory law
• B. Nurse practice act
• C. Civil law
• D. Case law

Answer: (B)

Standards for nursing practice at the state level are established by the nurse practice act. This state statute defines the scope of nursing practice, licensure requirements, and the rules for discipline, and it is enforced by the state board of nursing. While statutory law is the broad category of laws enacted by the legislature, the nurse practice act is the specific authority that sets the actual standards you must follow as a nurse in that state. Civil law governs private rights and obligations, and case law consists of court decisions interpreting statutes; neither directly establishes the day-to-day standards of professional nursing practice, though they can provide interpretations or influence how the act is applied.

Standards for nursing practice at the state level are established by the nurse practice act. This state statute defines the scope of nursing practice, licensure requirements, and the rules for discipline, and it is enforced by the state board of nursing. While statutory law is the broad category of laws enacted by the legislature, the nurse practice act is the specific authority that sets the actual standards you must follow as a nurse in that state. Civil law governs private rights and obligations, and case law consists of court decisions interpreting statutes; neither directly establishes the day-to-day standards of professional nursing practice, though they can provide interpretations or influence how the act is applied.