FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 1721

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.

C 203 L 17

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning obtaining required clinical experience for licensed practical nurses who complete a nontraditional registered nurse program.

Sponsors: Representatives Cody, Haler, Muri, Goodman and Jinkins; by request of Department of Health and Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission.

House Committee on Health Care & Wellness

Senate Committee on Health Care

Background:

A registered nurse is a person who performs acts requiring substantial specialized knowledge, judgment, and skill based on the principles of the biological, physiological, behavioral, and sociological sciences in:

A licensed practical nurse is a person who performs services requiring the knowledge, skill and judgment necessary for carrying out selected aspects of the designated nursing regimen under the direction and supervision of selected providers, including physicians, midwives, and registered nurses.

To be licensed as a registered nurse, an applicant must complete an education program approved by the NCQAC and pass an exam. Registered nursing education programs normally include a clinical experience component, but a "nontraditional" registered nursing education program does not include such a component. A licensed practical nurse who completes a nontraditional nursing education program may obtain the required clinical experience for licensure as a registered nurse by completing a preceptorship within six months of graduation. The experience must be obtained under the supervision of a registered nurse under the registered nurse's license. The registered nurse must have an unrestricted license with at least two years of clinical practice in the practice setting where the preceptorship will occur.

Summary:

The authority for a licensed practical nurse who has completed a nontraditional registered nursing education program to obtain required clinical experience through a preceptorship is repealed.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

85

12

Senate

48

1

Effective:

July 23, 2017