Fundamentals of Nursing Q 248
Which organization’s standards require that all patients be assessed specifically for pain?
A. American Nurses Association (ANA)
B. State nurse practice acts
C. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
D. The Joint Commission
Correct Answer: D. The Joint Commission
The Joint Commission has developed assessment standards, including that all clients be assessed for pain.
Option A: The ANA has developed standards for clinical practice, including those for assessment, but not specifically for pain. The American Nurses Association (ANA) is the premier organization representing the interests of the nation’s 4 million registered nurses. ANA is at the forefront of improving the quality of health care for all. Founded in 1896, and with members in all 50 states and U.S. territories, ANA is the strongest voice for the profession.
Option B: State nurse practice acts regulate nursing practice in individual states. An NPA is enacted by state legislation and its purpose is to govern and guide nursing practice within that state. An NPA is actually a law and must be adhered to as law. Each state has a Board of Nursing (BON) that interprets and enforces the rules of the NPA.
Option C: The NCSBN asserts that the scope of nursing includes a comprehensive assessment but does not specifically include pain. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is an independent, not-for-profit organization through which nursing regulatory bodies act and counsel together on matters of common interest and concern affecting public health, safety, and welfare, including the development of nursing licensure examinations.