Final answer:
The 'scope of nursing practice' encompasses the range of activities legally permissible for a nurse to perform within a specific state, governed by state nursing boards, and includes legally permissible activities that ensure safe and competent practice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term “scope of nursing practice” refers to the activities that are legally permissible for a nurse to perform in a particular state. When a nurse mentions this, they are referencing the range of roles, functions, responsibilities, and activities which registered nurses are educated and authorized to perform. This scope is established by the nursing board of each state and can include both independent nursing interventions and collaborative interventions that may overlap with other healthcare professions, including medicine.
From the options provided, the most accurate statement reflecting the understanding of “scope of nursing practice” is option b: “The scope of nursing practice includes activities that are legally permissible for a nurse to perform in a particular state.” This includes adherence to state laws and regulations, ethical considerations, and maintaining competencies required for practice.