What can a graduate nurse do before licensure?

• A. Prescribe medications
• B. Refuse to perform tasks
• C. Pass meds if they have passed approved competency test for Medication Administration
• D. Work independently without supervision

Answer: (C)

Before licensure, a graduate nurse may take on limited, supervised responsibilities. The correct idea is that they can administer medications if they have demonstrated the required competency on an approved Medication Administration assessment. This ensures they have the skills to perform a critical nursing task safely while still working under supervision and within facility policies. Prescribing medications is not allowed until the nurse is licensed, and working independently or refusing tasks aren’t appropriate for someone who is still in the pathway to licensure.