Final answer:
The legally defined scope of practice for RNs and LPNs is determined by state nursing boards, which are regulatory bodies that ensure nurses practice within their educational and professional standards. option B is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scope of practice for RNs (Registered Nurses) and LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) is legally defined by state nursing boards.
These boards are the regulatory bodies responsible for determining what is within the capabilities and roles of nurses in their respective states. This delineation ensures that nurses work within the boundaries of their educational and professional standards and protects public health and safety. National nursing associations and The Joint Commission do inform practice standards, but the final legal authority rests with state boards.
It's essential to note also that the labor market for nursing and healthcare professionals has been examined by economists, showing that the supply and demand of healthcare services can be challenging to balance, further emphasizing the importance of clearly defined legal scopes of practice.