Scope of Practice for Nurse Practitioners

The purpose of this document is to articulate the scope of practice of nurse practitioners (NPs) in Alberta, while outlining the boundaries of that practice for the understanding of the public, clients, NPs and other stakeholders. Scope of practice refers to the interventions NPs are authorized, educated and competent to perform. The focus in this document is primarily the clinical role of NPs.

NPs practicing in Alberta have a broad autonomous and independent scope of practice and are accountable and responsible for their practice. NPs are essential members of the interdisciplinary team and in independent practice, who have advanced education and provide a full range of comprehensive health services to individuals across their lifespan. The streams of NP practice are identified and described in this document.