SB 5829-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Finds a need to provide additional work-related opportunities for nursing students. Nursing students enrolled in bachelor of science programs or associate degree programs, working within the limits of their education, gain valuable judgment and knowledge through expanded work opportunities.

Provides that nursing technicians may function only under the direct supervision of a registered nurse who agrees to act as supervisor and is immediately available to the nursing technician. The supervising registered nurse must have an unrestricted license with at least two years of clinical practice in the setting where the nursing technician works.

Provides that nursing technicians may only perform specific nursing functions based upon and limited to their education and when they have demonstrated the ability and been verified to safely perform these functions by the nursing program in which the nurse technician is enrolled. The nursing program providing verification is immune from liability for any nursing function performed or not performed by the nursing technician.

Declares that nursing technicians are responsible and accountable for their specific nursing functions.

Requires the department to investigate complaints of violations of this act by an employer.