Which type of nurse is specifically mentioned as potentially practicing without a license?

The correct answer highlights that a graduate nurse, which may refer to an individual who has completed nursing education but has yet to pass the licensing examination, can potentially practice in some states without a license under specific conditions. This practice often involves working under the supervision of licensed professionals while waiting to take the licensure exam or receive their official licensing.

In many jurisdictions, graduate nurses may hold positions that allow them to perform tasks akin to those of licensed nurses, provided they are under supervision and do not represent themselves as fully licensed. This transitional status can vary by state or country, with some places allowing graduate nurses to engage in certain duties legally, while others may have stricter regulations.

Contrastingly, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses must hold valid licenses to practice, and certified nursing assistants typically require certification to perform their roles. This distinction reinforces the importance of understanding the regulatory environment surrounding nursing practice and the different scopes of responsibility based on licensing and certification.