In July 2006, the New York State Board for Nursing (SBN) increased the patient age limit from 18 to 21 as the acceptable standard of care for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NPs). This change comes as a result of recommendations by the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNP) and the American Medical Association’s Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive ServicesIn special circumstances, a Pediatric NP may treat a patient beyond the age of 21, if, and only if, these special circumstances are stated in the collaborative agreement on file in the designated practice setting. It is expected that individuals who care for an older age group under these special circumstances will have education and training to be competent to do so.
For questions, contact Education, Practice and Research: 800.724.NYRN, ext. 282 or by e-mail