OBN issues Practice Opinion regarding bronchoscopies by APRNs
26-001 Can Advanced Practice Registered Nurses perform diagnostic and/or therapeutic bronchoscopies?
In response to this nursing practice opinion request, the Advanced Practice Advisory Committee recommended on February 24, 2026, that the request be forwarded to the Board of Nursing for review and decision. The Board of Nursing concluded during the March 24, 2026 Board meeting that the performance of diagnostic and/or therapeutic bronchoscopy is within the scope of practice for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with an adult acute care certification who is currently educationally prepared and clinically competent in the performance of the procedure. The APRN should maintain documentation of having completed specific education and a competency validation. The performance of a bronchoscopy should be in accordance with documented facility policy and procedures and credentialing processes, as well as current evidence-based practice.
(Approved by Board, 5/19/2026)
