SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5944

BYSenators Smith and West

Requiring practical experience for the job of institutional nursing consultant.

Senate Committee on Health Care & Corrections

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 28, 1989

Senate Staff:Scott Plack (786-7409)

AS OF FEBRUARY 23, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The institutional nursing consultant is the classified civil service position used by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to employ persons to conduct surveys of the state's nursing homes.  The position currently requires a master's degree as part of the minimum qualifications.  Nursing home experience is not required nor can relevant experience be substituted for the required minimum education.

DSHS is currently experiencing a shortage of applicants for the position.  The inability to substitute experience for education may prevent otherwise qualified applicants from applying.  In addition, nursing home operations and procedures are increasingly complex due to the more intense care required by residents.  Prior job experience in nursing homes could help surveyors better understand nursing home operations.

SUMMARY:

The state Board of Personnel is directed to allow for the substitution of relevant experience for an advance degree for the position of institutional nurse consultant.  Two years of experience shall be substituted for one year of an advance degree.  Prior long-term care experience is also to be considered in hiring for the position.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 17, 1989