The nurse licensure compact agreement, also known as the NLC, is a mutual recognition agreement between 36 states in the United States. Under the NLC, licensed nurses are allowed to practice in their home state and other NLC states without having to obtain additional licenses.
Within the nurse licensure compact agreement, there are multiple provisions and regulations that nurses must adhere to. One of the primary provisions is that nurses must maintain an active and unencumbered license in their home state to practice in other NLC states.
Another provision within the nurse licensure compact agreement is that nurses must follow the laws and rules of the state where the patient is located when providing care. This includes meeting the minimum practice standards and maintaining appropriate continuing education requirements.
Furthermore, nurses practicing under the NLC must also adhere to the state`s scope of practice laws. In some states, for example, nurse practitioners have full practice authority, while in others, they may require physician supervision.
It is important to note that the nurse licensure compact agreement does not override state-specific laws related to nursing practice, such as those related to medication administration, informed consent, or documentation. Nurses must be aware of and adhere to these laws, as they can vary significantly between states.
In addition, while practicing under the NLC, nurses may be subject to disciplinary actions by both their home state and the state in which they are practicing, in the event of a violation. Therefore, it is essential for nurses to understand the rules and regulations of each state and ensure they are following them appropriately.
Overall, the nurse licensure compact agreement provides a significant benefit for nurses who wish to work in multiple states without obtaining additional licenses. However, it is critical for nurses to understand and adhere to the provisions and regulations outlined within the agreement to ensure they are practicing safely and appropriately in all states they work in.