What is included in the RN scope of practice?

• A. Assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and supervision of care, including delegation to others when appropriate, within professional standards.
• B. Only vitals measurement.
• C. Only administration of medications.
• D. Only patient education.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the registered nurse’s role covers the whole nursing process and oversight of care, not just individual tasks. In Florida, the RN scope of practice includes assessing a patient to gather health information, planning and coordinating care, implementing interventions, and evaluating outcomes. It also requires supervising the delivery of care and delegating tasks to others when appropriate, all within professional standards. This broad, integrated responsibility reflects the nurse’s responsibility for the overall care plan and ensuring safe, competent care across the team.

While vitals, medication administration, or patient education can be part of nursing care, none of them alone captures the full scope. They are components within the complete process that an RN is expected to manage and supervise.