State Nurse Practice Act
Nurses are accountable for knowing the law and rules regarding nursing practice in their state.
The Nurse Practice Act is the law regarding nursing practice. All Ohio law is codified in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC). The scope of practice of the registered nurse and licensed practical nurse are located in the law, Chapter 4723.
The rules regarding nursing practice (Ohio Administrative Code or OAC) "fill out" the law by outlining the processes developed by the Board of Nursing to carry out the law. Rules are promulgated by the Board and are reviewed at least every five years. Rules hearings are an open process, including an annual public hearing each November in which nurses are encouraged to participate. Standards of safe nursing practice, continuing education requirements, and principles of delegation are some of the topics outlined in the rules.
The complete law and rules regarding nursing practice are available for download at the Ohio Board of Nursing web site: www.nursing.ohio.gov.
Ohio Board of Nursing
17 South High Street, Suite 400
Columbus, Ohio 43215-3413
614-466-3947
