According to the New Mexico Nurse Practice Act, the definition of Board approval for nursing programs is an “official or formal consent, confirmation or sanction”.
In New Mexico, all nursing programs need to attain and maintain approval by the New Mexico Board of Nursing (NMBON). This indicates the nursing program has met the minimum requirements approved by the NMBON and is in good standing with the NMBON. The successful graduates of an NM Board approved program are eligible to take their NM state board exams known as the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). If the graduate passes the NCLEX, then they are eligible to become licensed and practice in New Mexico as either a Practical Nurse (PN) or a Registered Nurse (RN).
National nursing accreditation is a voluntary, self-regulatory process that focuses on strengthening education quality by meeting and maintaining nationally recognized standards. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is an organization that accredits nursing programs. The ACEN accredits diploma programs, practical nurse programs, associate programs, bachelor's, and master's programs. Another national nursing accrediting agency is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This agency focuses on baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing.
National Nursing Accrediting Bodies:
The New Mexico Board of Nursing currently requires Board approval for pre-licensure nursing programs and does not require national nursing accreditation for the nursing programs. In general, though, every accredited nursing program is approved by their governing state board of nursing.
The parent educational institution of the nursing program must also be accredited. The accreditation impacts the nursing student’s ability to receive financial aid and transfer credits to other educational institutions.