Which of the following practices ensures that professionals are qualified to practice?

The practice that ensures professionals are qualified to practice encompasses a variety of processes aimed at verifying their competence and legitimacy. Licensing is a mandatory credentialing process regulated by state or government authorities that allows individuals to practice a profession legally, showing they meet specific educational and training requirements.

Credentialing includes the overall process of establishing qualifications and verifying training, education, and experience to ensure that professionals meet the standards of their field. This can extend beyond just the formal licensing process and can include additional checks on a person's background and professional conduct.

Certification reflects that a professional has met certain criteria set by a certifying body, often involving an examination demonstrating knowledge and skills in a particular area. While certification is typically voluntary, it signals to employers and the public that the professional has exceeded basic qualifications.

The combination of all these practices—licensing, credentialing, and certification—creates a comprehensive framework that upholds the integrity and quality of professional practice, ensuring that individuals possess the necessary qualifications to provide safe and effective care. Hence, the inclusion of all these elements forms the best approach to ensuring that professionals are qualified in their respective fields.