Nursing is regulated by various entities at the local, state, and federal levels. In the United States, state Boards of Nursing (BONs) are primarily responsible for the licensure and oversight of nurses. These boards establish the standards of practice and code of ethics that nurses must follow. At the federal level, agencies like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) set regulations that impact nursing practices. Additionally, non-governmental organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) play a significant role in establishing best practices and advocacy for the nursing profession.
