Discussion:
Regulation versus Law
The state board of nursing is responsible for upholding and enforcing laws related to nursing (Milstead, 2016). Nursing organizations regulate practice by focusing on development, research, and has standards that contribute to good practice. The national council of state boards of nursing is the organization involved in creating the nursing examination (Milstead, 2016).
Pros and Cons of Credentialing
According to Milstead (2016), there are four major methods of credentialing: Licensure, registration, certification, and recognition (p.108-110). Licensure is known to be "the most restrictive form of credentialing" (Milstead, 2016, p.108) Licensure requires the candidate to take a comprehensive examination and have completed training through an approved program. Licensure is beneficial to protecting the public and professional scope of practice because it involves an extensive process that ensures that all measures have been taken before a person can be licensed and working. Licensure is regulated by the board of nursing and requires continuing education to keep the provider current. Registration provides the review of credentials but does not mean that the registered person has met the criteria to work in a certain setting (Milstead, 2016). Certification requires that the licensed candidate take an additional competency examination after a certain amount of hours have been completed in their field or specialty (Milstead, 2016). The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) requires a registered nurse to have a master's degree and completed advanced courses in health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. Certification benefits the public and practice because it provides better practice by experienced individuals. Recognition is similar to certification can involve similar requirements (Milstead, 2016). Phillips & Boivin (2013) stated: "Professional recognition is a more formal acknowledgment of sustained contributions or effort" (p.46). Recognition can help bring more clients to hospitals with staff that is recognized for their efforts.