Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What term describes a state that allows nurses to practice across state lines without additional licensing?

1. Certified state

2. Credentialing state

3. Compact state

4. Sunset state

The correct answer is: Compact state

The term that describes a state allowing nurses to practice across state lines without needing additional licensing is "compact state." This concept is primarily associated with the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which enables nurses who are licensed in one compact state to practice in other participating compact states without obtaining separate licenses. This arrangement facilitates greater mobility for nurses and addresses workforce shortages by simplifying the process of multi-state practice. The compact model aims to improve access to care, particularly in areas that face shortages. This is particularly beneficial in regions where healthcare demands exceed local resources, and it streamlines the regulatory process for nurses transitioning between states. On the other hand, the other terms — certified state, credentialing state, and sunset state — refer to different concepts in nursing regulations and licensure but do not encompass the multi-state practice aspect described in the question. A certified state may imply specific levels or types of certification, a credentialing state focuses on verifying qualifications but may not allow cross-border practice, and a sunset state usually pertains to legislation regarding the expiration of existing laws but does not relate to the ability to practice across state lines.