Which sources define the NP scope of practice?

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Scope of practice for nurse practitioners is defined by state-based authority, shaped and summarized by professional guidelines. The legal boundaries come from state practice acts and regulations, which specify what NPs may do, including diagnosing, prescribing, and collaborating requirements. The AANP website serves as a reliable, up-to-date reference that explains each state’s scope, current practice authority, and any changes across the country. Federal law sets rules around reimbursement and certain safety standards, but it does not establish the NP scope of practice. Hospital policy and insurance guidelines influence how you practice day to day and how care is funded or regulated within a setting, but they do not determine the legal scope you have as an NP. Knowing your state statutes and consulting professional resources like the AANP site helps ensure practice aligns with the actual legal authority where you work.