The evolution of a profession: where do boards of nursing fit in?

Differentiation between the structure and functions of Boards of Nursing and the professional association is important to understanding the evolution of nursing as a profession. This descriptive exploratory study revealed that Boards of Nursing usually have 5 members who are appointed by and can be removed by the governor of the state. All Boards are responsible for education and licensing at the professional entry-level but may not be responsible beyond that level. In contrast to the professional association, Boards report appreciable variability in structure and administration. Boards differ from the professional association in source of power and focus on the protection of the public rather than improvement of practice.