Functional Differences Functional differences exist between regulatory agencies, such as the Iowa Board of Nursing as well as the Iowa State Nurse Practice Act, and Professional Nursing Organizations such as the NGNA (National Geriatric Nursing Association) and the code of ethics. The role of the Iowa Board of Nursing is to regulate nursing practice by protecting the public by ensuring that the nurses are following the standard of nursing practice as well as being competent in the field of nursing. A few responsibilities of the board is to interpret and enforce the state nurse practice act, accredit or approve nursing education programs, develop nursing practice standards from the regulatory standpoint, administer nurse licensure by overseeing exams to grant licenses and taking action against licenses of nurses who have exhibited unsafe nursing practice, and develop policies, administrative rules and regulations (Frequently asked questions, 2012). On the other hand, the State Nurse Practice Act outlines the responsibilities of the nurse as well as the scope of practice. The role is to protect the client from harm due to unsafe acts. Within the Practice Act specific details are given on what an RN is capable of practicing as well as an LPN. For example, as an RN, this writer is responsible for respecting the client’s rights as well as confidentiality of their information which is completed on a daily basis (Iowa Legislature-Rule Listings, 2014). The NGNA is a professional nursing organization for geriatrics whose main purpose is to improve nursing care given to older adults. This group is voluntary and upholds the values of inclusiveness, respect, innovation and responsiveness (Core Purpose & Values, 2014). Last but not least, the code of ethics is different from the two regulatory agencies mentioned above as it is a guide to ensure quality in nursing