Multistate practice occurs when a nurse practices in multiple jurisdictions. This may be an educator who is responsible for students of one academic institution having clinical placements in several states or a home health nurse who sees patients in more than one state even in a given day. Or a nurse may hold positions in more than one state. The House of Delegates specified that ANA develop strategies which facilitate interstate and multi state practice and would serve as alternatives to mutual recognition compacts. North Dakota, the only state to implement a baccalaureate degree for entry into practice, would be required to recognize a license from other states without that requirement.
Multistate practice requires no new regulatory scheme.
While it may be more costly for a nurse to hold several licenses in order to carry out the responsibilities for one employer, each state's standards must be followed. Convenience and cost considerations have driven the discussion of the need for one license recognized by multiple jurisdictions. Little discussion has occurred regarding the employer's participation in purchasing multiple licenses as a mechanism for assisting the nurse with costs. Licensure is tied to the Location of the Nurse Nursing practice will continue to respond to patient needs, regardless of the geographic location of either the nurse or patient. Options for professional nursing licensure require exploration.