Final answer:
The purpose of the NM Nursing Practice Act is to protect public health and safety by regulating nursing practice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the NM Nursing Practice Act is to protect public health and safety by regulating nursing practice. It establishes standards of conduct and practice for nurses, ensuring that they provide safe and competent care to patients. The act also includes provisions for disciplinary actions against nurses who violate these standards, further ensuring the protection of public safety. Lastly, the act does not address the specific provision mentioned in option 4, which is related to substance abuse investigations.