Abstract

Nursing regulators must uphold their mandate to protect the public amid increasing scrutiny and shifting expectations. As understandings of the public interest evolve, so too must regulatory policy and practice. In this commentary, we explore the role of nursing regulation in addressing system-level challenges, including workforce dynamics, racism, misinformation and planetary health. Stronger investment by governments and nursing leadership in regulatory research, as well as support for partnerships between regulators and researchers, can help build an evidence base demonstrating the unique role of regulation in not only supporting a safe, competent workforce but also advancing equity and sustainability in health systems.