Scope of Practice for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners

  • The Dermatology Nurse Practitioner (NP) assesses, diagnoses, treats, and manages acute, episodic and chronic dermatology illnesses.
  • The Dermatology NP orders, and interprets diagnostic and laboratory tests, prescribes pharmacological agents and non-pharmacologic therapies related to dermatological concerns of patients, as well as teaches and counsels patients about their dermatological conditions.
  • The Dermatology NP refers patients to specialists as needed to ensure patients receive comprehensive dermatological care.
  • The Dermatology NP serves in a variety of roles: patient care provider, mentor, educator and researcher.
  • The Dermatology NP works collaboratively with all members of the health care team in providing comprehensive dermatology care to patients.

Standards of Care for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners

  • The Dermatology NP will practice within the scope of practice established by the Board of Nursing.
  • The Dermatology NP will adhere to the Code of Ethics for Nursing.
  • The Dermatology NP will take responsibility for continued professional development to stay abreast of current dermatology trends and to ensure patients receive safe, high quality dermatological care.
  • The Dermatology NP will maintain their appropriate licenses and certifications.
  • The Dermatology NP will be involved in community outreach programs to educate the public and their communities about dermatology care and the prevention of skin cancer.

Per the Scope and Standards of Practice for Dermatology Nurse Practitioners:
“Graduate-level prepared registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) specializing in dermatology have scope and competencies for health promotion, disease and injury prevention, early recognition of signs and symptoms, disease management, self-care knowledge, and adherence to improve patient and population outcomes for those at risk for, or living with, dermatologic disease. A dermatology nurse practitioner is defined as an advanced practice registered nurse licensed as a nurse practitioner that specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, management, and advocacy of individuals and communities with health and illness of the hair, skin, and nails.”

Dermatology Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice, 3rd ed, 2020.
https://www.dnanurse.org/scopes-and-standards/