SENATE BILL REPORT

ESB 6119

BYSenators Barr and Wojahn

Revising certain procedures for persons applying to be licensed practical nurses.

Senate Committee on Health Care & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 25, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Deccio, Chairman; Johnson, Vice Chairman; Niemi, Smith, Wojahn.

Senate Staff:Scott Plack (786-7409)

                  January 26, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 10, 1988

BACKGROUND:

State statutes require individuals seeking licensure as a practice nurse to take the national competency examination.  The examination is given two times a year in April and October.  The majority of students who graduate from an accredited program in practical nursing do so in May or June.  They must wait until October to take the competency examination and another 30 days for the test to be graded. 

The delay in licensing practical nurses is of concern because of the current nursing shortage in the state. 

SUMMARY:

The Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Act (Chapter 18.78 RCW) is amended to direct the Department of Licensing to issue interim permits authorizing applicants to practice pending notification of the results of the first licensing examination.  If the applicant fails the first examination the permit expires and is not renewable.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Effective Date:April 1, 1988

Senate Committee - Testified: Marilyn Eckley, Licensed Practical Nurses of Washington; Connie Roth, DOL; Henry Sovert, ALMACA