| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
HB 2209
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.
Brief Description: Allowing advanced registered nurse practitioners to examine and obtain copies of autopsy reports.
Sponsors: Representatives Seaquist, Morrell, Curtis, Green, Moeller and Ormsby.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 2/22/07
Staff: Chris Cordes (786-7103).
Background:
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners
By statute, advanced registered nurse practice is the performance, by a registered nurse, of an
expanded role in providing health care as recognized by the medical and nursing professions and
defined by Department of Health (DOH).
Department of Health rules provide that an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) is a
registered nurse prepared to assume primary responsibility for management of a broad range of
patient care. ARNPs function within the specialty scopes of practice and standards of care
developed by national professional organizations and reviewed and approved by the State
Nursing Care Quality Commission.
According to the rules, an ARNP's practice incorporates the use of independent judgment as well
as collaborative interaction with other health care professionals when indicated in the assessment
and management of conditions appropriate to the ARNP's area of specialization.
Records of Autopsies
The bodies of individuals who die suddenly, under unnatural or unlawful circumstances, or from
violence, among other specified causes, are under the jurisdiction of the county coroner.
Autopsies may be performed as required by the coroner, as authorized by family members,
guardians, or agencies authorized to dispose of the decedent's remains, or upon court order.
Records of autopsies are confidential. They may be released only to specified parties, including
the decedent's family, the attending physician, and certain agencies with relevant official
business. On request, the attending physician or the coroner must meet with the decedent's
family members to discuss the autopsy findings.
Summary of Bill:
Confidential records of autopsies may be released to a decedent's attending advanced registered
nurse practitioner, as well a decedent's attending physician.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.