State Regulations for the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care

Abstract 

Introduction

In response to economic factors affecting health care costs in caring for acutely ill children, pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) practice has expanded to include the acute care pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP-AC). With this change in practice and in educational preparation, there have been changes in credentialing, certification, and, in some cases, state regulations. This study was conducted to clarify the state regulations for the PNP-AC.

Method

A survey of the practice chairs, executive directors, or both, from each state Board of Nursing and the District of Columbia (n = 51) was performed to determine whether PNP-ACs are recognized in each state and if not, what they would need to do to become eligible for recognition.

Results

The majority of states (31) require that PNP-ACs take the AC certification examination, and 10 require the primary care examination. The remainder of the states have variations in their requirements.

Discussion

Because this is an area that is changing rapidly, PNPs working in acute care settings need to stay abreast of changes in their state requirements.