Topic 1: Regulating Professional Practice
Compare the roles of state board of nursing with the role of professional organizations in regulating professional practice. What are the major methods of credentialing? List the benefits and weaknesses of each method from the standpoint of protecting the public and the protection of the professional scope of practice.
At least 250 words with 2 references/citations
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Introduction:
In the field of healthcare, it is essential to ensure that the professionals practicing have the necessary skills and expertise to provide high-quality care to patients. There are various methods of credentialing that ensure that healthcare professionals meet the required standards of proficiency. Additionally, both state board of nursing and professional organizations play a crucial role in regulating professional practice. In this essay, we will discuss and compare the roles of state board of nursing with professional organizations in regulating professional practice. Furthermore, We will examine the major methods of credentialing and list the benefits and weaknesses of each from the standpoint of protecting the public and the protection of the professional scope of practice.
Answer:
State board of nursing and professional organizations play a vital role in regulating professional practice within the healthcare industry. State board of nursing is responsible for outlining and enforcing regulations related to nursing practice within a given state. On the other hand, professional organizations typically offer nurses a variety of resources to promote best practices, continuing education, professional certification, and compliance with ethical standards.
The major methods of credentialing for nurses include licensure, certification, accreditation, and registration. Licensure refers to a process by which a professional obtains a license from the state to practice in a specific field. Certification is a voluntary process that validates the specialized knowledge, skills, and experience of a nurse in a particular area of practice. Accreditation is a process whereby an agency evaluates an educational program or healthcare organization against pre-established standards. Finally, registration refers to the listing of an individual with a regulatory body to confirm eligibility for practicing a particular profession.
Each method of credentialing has advantages and disadvantages concerning the protection of the public and the protection of the professional scope of practice. Licensure provides a guarantee that the professional reported to the regulatory body meets the minimum competency standards for practice. However, this method may not be sufficient to demonstrate advanced competencies required for the specialized areas of practice. Certification, on the other hand, provides an indication of advanced level of knowledge and competence, but it’s a voluntary process hence, cannot ensure safety in nursing practice. Accreditation ensures that educational programs or healthcare organizations meet pre-established standards, but the process is time-consuming and can be rigorous to meet all program requirements. Registration provides an overview of the licensed professionals who are eligible to practice within a specific state and confirms eligibility for practice, but it does not test competency.
In conclusion, regulating professional practice is essential to ensure patient safety and ensure that healthcare professionals meet the required standards of proficiency. Both state board of nursing and professional organizations play an essential role in regulating professional nursing practice. The methods of credentialing used to ensure nurses meet these standards come with their benefits and limitations. With this understanding, healthcare professionals can ensure that they comply with the necessary regulations and provide high-quality care to patients.
References:
American Nurses Credentialing Center & American Nurses Association, 2018. Credentialing Glossary. American Nurses Association.
Stokowski, L. A., 2012. Professional Organizations and Credentialing. Critical Care Nurse, pp. 20-23.
