An Overview of Abortion Laws for Nurses to Advocate for Themselves and Their Patients

The impact of the Dobbs decision on abortion policy, nurses, health systems, and health care leaders is profound and complex. Understanding the history of abortion legislation and the impact of that legislation on nursing practice and licensure is important if policy and law are to reflect the needs of society. This article provides a focused history of abortion policy and law, the current implications of the Dobbs’ holding on the practice of nursing, and the future considerations for practice, policy and nursing education that are presented by abortion regulation.