SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5092
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 29, 2013
Title: An act relating to providing an exemption from continuing competency requirements for registered nurses who seek advanced nursing degrees.
Brief Description: Providing an exemption from continuing competency requirements for registered nurses who seek advanced nursing degrees.
Sponsors: Senators Benton, Shin, Braun, Roach and Honeyford.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health Care: 1/29/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE |
Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)
Background: The Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (Commission) regulates the nursing profession by setting licensing requirements, standards of practice, continuing competency requirements, and disciplinary standards. Rules, policies, and procedures developed by the Commission must promote the delivery of quality health care to Washington citizens. The 15 commission members are appointed by the Governor to four year terms and include 12 nurses and three public members.
The Commission determines licensing examination requirements for registered nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner, and licensed practical nurse applicants. Registered nurses must renew their registration every year on or before their birthday. In order to renew their registration, registered nurses must complete 531 practice hours and 45 continuing education hours every three years. Nursing practice means the performance of acts requiring substantial specialized nursing knowledge, judgment, and skills as set by current law under RCW 18.70.040 through 18.79.060. The Commission permits nurses to meet the practice hours for continuing competency requirements by working in paid or unpaid positions which require a nursing license.
Summary of Bill: The Commission must adopt rules that provide for an exemption for active nurse practice hours. The exemption must be provided for registered nurses who are enrolled for at least six hours per semester or quarter in an accredited bachelor's of science in nursing program or who are enrolled in an accredited master's of science nursing program for the current reporting period. A registered nurse claiming this exemption must maintain passing grades and complete the program within three years of acceptance.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: OTHER: The Commission has been considering both competency and continuing education rules and will add further explanation in its frequently asked questions at the next meeting on March 8, 2013. We would like to include LPNs and doctoral students. This should include doctoral students of nursing. We would like to see further clarification of what is meant by accreditation in the bill, and we think some clarification is needed regarding enrollment in a program.
Persons Testifying: OTHER: Paula Meyer, Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission, Chris Thompson, Independent Colleges of WA.