Scope of nursing practice

In different countries, the scope of nursing practice is specified in legislation such as in Nursing Practice Acts or is designated by the nursing practice regulatory boards. According to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) of the United Kingdom (previously known as the United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (UKCC), the scope of nursing practice is the range of responsibilities which fall to individual nurses, midwives and health visitors which are related to their personal experience and skill; and that the the practice of nursing, and education for that practice, will continue to be shaped by developments in care and treatment, and by other events which influence it. According to the Queensland Nursing Council of Australia, the scope of nursing practice is that which nurses are educated, competent, and authorised to perform. According to the International Council of Nurses, the scope of nursing practice spheres of responsibility include giving direct care, supervising others, leading, managing, teaching,undertaking research and developing health policy for health care systems.” According to the World Health Organization, the functions of the nurse is to provide and manage direct practical nursing; to teach patients, clients and health care personnel; to act as an effective member of a health care team; and to develop nursing practice based on critical thinking and research.

Fields of nursing practice

The different fields of nursing practice include clinical practice, education, and management and research.
Ranges of nursing practice.

The ranges of nursing practice include the generalist nursing practice and the specialist nursing practice. According to the Queensland Nursing Council of Australia, generalist nursing practice encompasses a comprehensive spectrum of activities. It is directed towards a diversity of people with different health needs, it takes place in a wide range of healthcare settings, and it is reflective of a broad range of knowledge and skills. Generalist practice may occur at any point on the continuum from beginner level nursing practice to advanced level nursing practice.