Chapter 4: Nursing Licensure and Certification
This chapter examines the regulatory and credentialing mechanisms that govern nursing practice in the United States. It explores the distinction between licensure—the mandatory state-granted authorization to practice—and certification—the voluntary credential demonstrating specialized knowledge and skills. The chapter covers the role of state boards of nursing and nurse practice acts in regulating practice and protecting the public. Key topics include the purpose of licensure, the NCLEX-RN examination, licensure by endorsement, the Nurse Licensure Compact for multi-state practice, and the role of the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in certification for advanced practice and specialty areas. The chapter also addresses international practice considerations, continuing competency requirements, and the legal framework of sunset legislation that ensures nurse practice acts remain current
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- October 2, 2026
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- 2026/2027
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- Exam (elaborations)
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