WSR 97-07-074
PROPOSED RULES
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
[Filed March 19, 1997, 10:17 a.m.]
Original Notice.
Exempt from preproposal statement of inquiry under RCW 34.05.310(4).
Purpose: In July 1994 the RN and LPN boards were combined into a single commission. The new commission decided they would combine the two sets of WACs, chapters 246-838 and 246-839 WAC, into chapter 246-840 WAC. Staff and public have found that it is very confusing to have our WACs spread throughout two WAC chapters.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: Chapter 18.79 RCW.
Statute Being Implemented: Chapter 18.79 RCW.
Summary: The combination of the RN and LPN WACs will make it easier for public and staff to understand.
Reasons Supporting Proposal: To avoid confusion of three separate WAC chapters, LPN chapter 246-838 WAC, RN chapter 246-839 WAC, and new chapters, combined RN and LPN, which have been adopted is chapter 246-840 WAC.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation and Enforcement: Patty Hayes, 1300 S.E. Quince, (360) 664-4100.
Name of Proponent: Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance, governmental.
Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.
Explanation of Rule, its Purpose, and Anticipated Effects: At this time we are using RN WACs, LPN WACs and new WACs which have been combined. When the Registered Nurse Board and the Licensed Practical Nurse Board combined to form the Nursing Commission it was decided by the commission to combine the two sets of WACs. It has been very confusing for both staff and public to have our WACs separated. By combining the WACs it will simplify the WACs which will make it easier for staff and the public to understand.
Proposal does not change existing rules. The licensed practical nursing chapter is chapter 246-838 WAC and the registered nurse chapter is chapter 246-839 WAC. We would like to combine the two existing chapters to chapter 246-840 WAC.
No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. Exception rule.
Section 201, chapter 403, Laws of 1995, does not apply to this rule adoption. This rule does not subject a person to a penalty or sanction; does not establish, alter or revoke a qualification or standard for nursing licensure; and does not make significant amendment to a policy or regulatory program. This rule will combine the registered nurse, chapter 246-839 WAC, and licensed practical nurse, chapter 246-838 WAC, with the combined WAC chapter 246-840 WAC.
Hearing Location: Spokane Red Lion Hotel, North 322 Spokane Falls Court, Spokane, WA 99201, on April 25, 1997, at 11:00 a.m.
Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Nursing Commission by April 18, 1997, TDD (360) 664-0064, or FAX (360) 586-1355.
Submit Written Comments to: Kris McLaughlin, Department of Health, Mailstop 7864, Olympia, 98504, FAX (360) 586-5935, by April 18, 1997.
Date of Intended Adoption: April 25, 1997.
March 17, 1997
Patty Hayes
Executive Director
REPEALER
The following chapter of the Washington Administrative Code is
repealed:
WAC 246-838-010 Definitions.
WAC 246-838-020 Functions of a licensed practical nurse.
WAC 246-838-026 Mandatory reporting.
WAC 246-838-030 Standards of conduct for discipline.
WAC 246-838-040 Licensure qualifications.
WAC 246-838-050 Licensing examination.
WAC 246-838-060 Release of results of examination.
WAC 246-838-070 Filing of application for licensing examination.
WAC 246-838-080 Failures--Repeat examination.
WAC 246-838-090 Licensure of graduates of foreign schools of nursing.
WAC 246-838-100 Licensure by interstate endorsement.
WAC 246-838-110 Documents which indicate authorization to practice.
WAC 246-838-120 Renewal of licenses.
WAC 246-838-121 Responsibility for maintaining mailing address.
WAC 246-838-130 Return to active status from inactive or lapsed status.
WAC 246-838-250 AIDS education and training.
WAC 246-838-260 Standards/competencies.
WAC 246-838-270 Criteria for approved refresher course.
WAC 246-838-280 Scope of practice--Advisory opinions.
WAC 246-838-290 Terms used in WAC 246-838-290 through 246-838-310.
WAC 246-838-300 Approval of substance abuse monitoring programs.
WAC 246-838-310 Participation in approved monitoring program.
WAC 246-838-330 Impaired practical nurse program--Content--License surcharge.
WAC 246-838-340 Executive secretary qualifications.
WAC 246-838-350 Appearance and practice before agency--Standards of ethical conduct.
WAC 246-838-360 Adjudicative proceedings procedural rules.
REPEALER
The following sections of the Washington Administrative Code are
repealed:
WAC 246-839-010 Definitions.
WAC 246-839-020 Documents which indicate authorization to practice registered nursing in Washington.
WAC 246-839-040 Filing of application for licensing examination.
WAC 246-839-050 Licensing examination.
WAC 246-839-060 Release of results of examination.
WAC 246-839-070 Failures--Repeat examination.
WAC 246-839-080 Applicants previously licensed in a foreign country.
WAC 246-839-090 Licensure by interstate endorsement.
WAC 246-839-100 AIDS education and training.
WAC 246-839-105 Brief adjudicative proceedings--Denials based on failure to meet education, experience, or examination prerequisites for licensure.
WAC 246-839-110 Renewal of licenses.
WAC 246-839-115 Responsibility for maintaining mailing address on file with the board.
WAC 246-839-120 Return to active status from inactive or lapsed status.
WAC 246-839-130 Criteria for approved refresher course.
WAC 246-839-300 Advanced registered nurse practitioner.
WAC 246-839-305 Criteria for formal advanced nursing education meeting the requirement for ARNP licensure.
WAC 246-839-310 Use of nomenclature.
WAC 246-839-315 Clinical specialist in psychiatric/mental health nursing.
WAC 246-839-320 Certification and certification program.
WAC 246-839-330 Board approval of certification programs.
WAC 246-839-340 Application requirements for ARNP.
WAC 246-839-345 ARNP designation in more than one area of specialty.
WAC 246-839-350 Application requirements for ARNP interim permit.
WAC 246-839-360 Renewal of ARNP designation.
WAC 246-839-365 Return to active ARNP status from inactive or lapsed status.
WAC 246-839-370 Termination of ARNP designation by the board.
WAC 246-839-400 ARNP with prescriptive authorization.
WAC 246-839-410 Application requirements for ARNP with prescriptive authority.
WAC 246-839-420 Authorized prescriptions by the ARNP with prescriptive authority.
WAC 246-839-430 Termination of ARNP prescriptive authorization.
WAC 246-839-440 Prescriptive authorization period.
WAC 246-839-450 Renewal.
WAC 246-839-700 Standards of nursing conduct or practice.
WAC 246-839-710 Violations of standards of nursing conduct or practice.
WAC 246-839-720 Mitigating circumstances.
WAC 246-839-730 Mandatory reporting defined.
WAC 246-839-740 Violations considered for disciplinary purposes only.
WAC 246-839-745 Adjudicative proceedings.
WAC 246-839-750 Philosophy governing voluntary substance abuse monitoring programs.
WAC 246-839-760 Terms used in WAC 246-839-750 through 246-839-780.
WAC 246-839-770 Approval of substance abuse monitoring programs.
WAC 246-839-780 Participation in approved substance abuse monitoring program.
WAC 246-839-800 Scope of practice--Advisory opinions.
WAC 246-839-810 Provision for continuity of drug therapy for residents.
WAC 246-839-820 Provision for clean, intermittent catheterization in schools.
WAC 246-839-830 Determination and pronouncement of death.
WAC 246-839-840 Nursing technician.
WAC 246-839-850 Use of nomenclature.
WAC 246-839-860 Nursing technician criteria.
WAC 246-839-870 Functions of the nursing technician.
WAC 246-839-880 Functions of the registered nurse supervising the nursing technician.
WAC 246-839-890 Responsibilities of the employing facility.
WAC 246-839-900 Responsibilities of the nurse administrator.
NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-010 Definitions. (1) "Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome" or "AIDS" means the clinical syndrome of HIV-related illnesses as defined by the commission of health by rule.
(2) "Auxiliary services" are all nursing services provided to patients by persons other than the licensed practical nurse, the registered nurse and the nursing student.
(3) "Beginning practitioner" means a newly licensed nurse beginning to function in the nurse role.
(4) "Behavioral objectives" means the measurable outcomes of specific content.
(5) "Client" means the person who receives the services of the practical nurse or registered nurse.
(6) "Client advocate" means a supporter of client rights and choices.
(7) "Commission" means the Washington state nursing care quality assurance commission.
(8) "Competencies" means the tasks necessary to perform the standards.
(9) "Conceptual framework" means the theoretical base around which the curriculum is developed.
(10) "Conditional approval" of a school of nursing is the approval given a school of nursing that has failed to meet the requirements of the law and the rules and regulations of the commission, and it specifies conditions that must be met within a designated time to rectify the failure.
(11) "Delegation" means the licensed practical nurse or registered nurse transfers the performance of selected nursing tasks to competent individuals in selected situations. The licensed practical nurse or registered nurse delegating the task retains the responsibility and accountability for the nursing care of the client. The licensed practical nurse or registered nurse delegating the task supervises the performance of the unlicensed person;
(a) Nursing acts delegated by the licensed practical nurse or registered nurse shall:
(i) Be within the area of responsibility of the licensed practical nurse or registered nurse delegating the act;
(ii) Be such that, in the opinion of the licensed practical nurse or registered nurse, it can be properly and safely performed by the person without jeopardizing the patient welfare;
(iii) Be acts that a reasonable and prudent licensed practical nurse or registered nurse would find are within the scope of sound nursing judgment.
(b) Nursing acts delegated by the licensed practical nurse or registered nurse shall not require the unlicensed person to exercise nursing judgment nor perform acts which must only be performed by a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse, except in an emergency situation (RCW 18.79.240 (1)(b) and (2)(b)).
(c) When delegating a nursing act to an unlicensed person it is the registered nurse who shall:
(i) Make an assessment of the patient's nursing care need before delegating the task;
(ii) Instruct the unlicensed person in the delegated task or verify competency to perform or be assured that the person is competent to perform the nursing task as a result of the systems in place by the health care agency;
(iii) Recognize that some nursing interventions require nursing knowledge, judgment, and skill and therefore may not lawfully be delegated to unlicensed persons.
(12) Direction and Supervision:
(a) "Supervision" of licensed or unlicensed nursing personnel means the provision of guidance and evaluation for the accomplishment of a nursing task or activity with the initial direction of the task or activity; periodic inspection of the actual act of accomplishing the task or activity; and the authority to require corrective action.
(b) "Consulting capacity" shall mean the recommendations to a professional entity, employed at that facility, which may be accepted, rejected, or modified. These recommendations shall not be held out as providing nursing services by the consulting nurse to the patient or public.
(c) "Direct supervision" shall mean the licensed registered nurse is on the premises, is quickly and easily available and the patient has been assessed by the licensed registered nurse prior to the delegation of the duties to any caregiver.
(d) "Immediate supervision" shall mean the registered nurse is on the premises and is within audible and visual range of the patient and the patient has been assessed by the registered nurse prior to the delegation of duties to any caregiver.
(e) "Indirect supervision" shall mean the registered nurse is not on the premises but has given either written or oral instructions for the care and treatment of the patient and the patient has been assessed by the registered nurse prior to the delegation of duties to any caregiver.
(13) "Extended learning sites" refers to any area external to the parent organization selected by faculty for student learning experiences.
(14) "Faculty" means persons who are responsible for the educational program of the school of nursing and who hold faculty appointment in the school.
(15) "Full approval" of a school of nursing is the approval given a school of nursing that meets the requirements of the law and the rules and regulations of the commission.
(16) "Minor nursing services." The techniques and procedures used by the nursing profession are extremely difficult to categorize as major or minor nursing services. The important factor with which this law is concerned is the determination of which nursing person and at what level of preparation that person may perform said technique or procedure in relation to the condition of a given patient, and this kind of determination rests with the registered nurse.
(17) "Minimum standards of competency" means the functions that are expected of the beginning level nurse.
(18) "Nurse administrator" is an individual who meets the qualifications contained in WAC 246-840-555 and who has been designated as the person primarily responsible for the direction of the program in nursing. Titles for this position may include, among others, dean, director, coordinator or chairperson.
(19) The phrase "nursing aide" used in RCW 18.79.240 (1)(c) shall mean a "nursing technician." "Nursing technician" is a nursing student currently enrolled in a commission or state board of nursing approved nursing education program and employed for the purpose of giving help, assistance and support in the performance of those services which constitute the practice of registered nursing. The nursing student shall use the title "nursing technician" while employed.
(20) "Nursing student" is a person currently enrolled in an approved school of nursing.
(21) "Office on AIDS" means that section within the department of social and health services or any successor department with jurisdiction over public health matters as defined in chapter 70.24 RCW.
(22) "Philosophy" means the beliefs and principles upon which the curriculum is based.
(23) "Program" means a division or department within a state supported educational institution, or other institution of higher learning charged with the responsibility of preparing persons to qualify for the licensing examination.
(24) "Provisional approval" of schools of nursing is the approval given a new school of nursing based on its proposed program prior to the admission of its first class.
(25) "Registered nurse" as used in these rules shall mean a nurse as defined by RCW 18.79.030(1).
(26) "School" means an educational unit charged with the responsibility of preparing persons to practice as practical nurses or registered nurses. Three types of basic schools of nursing are distinguished by the certificate awarded to the graduate. Schools of nursing within colleges and universities award the associate degree or baccalaureate degree. Schools of nursing sponsored by a hospital award a diploma.
(27) "Standards" means the overall behavior which is the desired outcome.
(28) "Terminal objectives" means the statements of goals which reflect the philosophy and are the measurable outcomes of the total curriculum.
(29) An "unapproved school of nursing" is a school of nursing that
has been removed from the list of approved schools for failure to meet
the requirements of the law and the rules and regulations of the
commission or a school that has never been approved by the commission.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-020 Documents which indicate authorization to practice nursing in Washington. The following documents are the only documents that indicate legal authorization to practice as a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse in Washington.
(1) Active license. A license is issued upon completion of all requirements for licensure, confers the right to use the title licensed practical nurse or licensed registered nurse and the use of its abbreviation, L.P.N. or R.N., and to practice as a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse in the state of Washington.
A student who has graduated from a basic professional nursing course and who is pursuing a baccalaureate degree in nursing, an advanced degree in nursing or an advanced certification in nursing shall hold an active Washington RN license before participating in the practice of nursing as required to fulfill the learning objectives in a clinical course.
Exception to this requirement may be granted by the commission on an individual basis upon a petition submitted by the dean or director of a school of nursing, on a case-by-case basis.
(a) The exception allows the student to practice in a clinical setting only under the direct supervision of an RN faculty member. The commission requires that any RN faculty member supervising these students meet the requirements of direct supervision as defined in WAC 246-840-010 (13)(c)(ii) and, in addition, that supervising faculty document that all clients under the care of the student be assessed by the RN faculty each clinical day.
(b) The dean or director of the school of nursing shall ensure that each faculty member who supervises these students be provided a copy of these rules and be assigned in a manner that allows for direct supervision.
(c) Nursing students who participate in clinical courses under this section are not eligible for the nursing technician role.
(2) Inactive license. A license issued to a person previously holding an active license in this state who desires to retire temporarily from the practice of nursing in this state. The holder of an inactive license shall not practice nursing in this state.
(3) Limited educational license. A limited educational license may be issued to a person who has been on inactive or lapsed status for three years or more and who wishes to return to active status.
(4) Advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) recognition document. An ARNP recognition document may be issued to any person who meets the requirements of the commission as contained in WAC 246-840-300. Only persons holding this recognition document shall have the right to use the title "advanced registered nurse practitioner" or the abbreviation "ARNP" or any title or abbreviation which may indicate that the person is entitled to practice at an advanced and specialized level as a nurse practitioner, a specialized nurse practitioner, a nurse midwife, or a nurse anesthetist. This document authorizes the ARNP to engage in the scope of practice allowed for his or her specialty area and is valid only with a current registered nurse license.
(5) ARNP interim permit. An interim permit may be issued following satisfactory completion of an advanced formal education program, registration for the first certification examination of an approved program following completion of the education and filing of an application, fee and requested documentation. If the applicant passes the examination the department shall grant advanced registered nurse practitioner status. If the applicant fails the examination, the interim permit shall expire upon notification and is not renewable.
(6) ARNP prescriptive authorization. A notation of prescriptive
authorization may be placed on the ARNP recognition document issued to
any person who meets the requirements of the commission as contained in
WAC 246-840-410. This authorizes the ARNP to prescribe drugs within his
or her scope of practice and is valid only with a current registered
nurse license.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-030 Examination and licensure. (1) Graduates from Washington state board approved schools of nursing holding a degree/diploma from such a school shall be eligible to write the examination provided all other requirements of the statute and regulations shall be met. Every applicant must have satisfactorily completed an approved nursing program within two years of the date of the first examination taken or the applicant must meet other requirements of the nursing commission to determine current theoretical and clinical knowledge of nursing practice.
(2) An applicant who has not completed an approved practical nurse program must establish evidence of successful completion of nursing and related courses at an approved school preparing persons for licensure as registered nurses, which courses include personal and vocational relationships of the practical nurse, basic science and psychosocial concepts, theory and clinical practice in medications and the nursing process, and theory and clinical practice in medical, surgical, geriatric, pediatric, obstetric and mental health nursing. These courses must be equivalent to those same courses in a practical nursing program approved by the board.
(3) Graduates from a nursing school approved by a board of nursing in another U.S. jurisdiction shall be eligible to take the examination provided that:
(a) The nursing school meets the minimum standards approved for commission or state board school of nursing in Washington at the time of the applicant's graduation;
(b) Graduate has completed all institutional requirements for the degree/diploma in nursing education per attestation from the administrator of the approved nursing education program;
(c) All other requirements of the statute and regulations shall be
met.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-040 Filing of application for licensing examination. (1) All applicants shall file with the Washington state nursing commission a completed application, with the required fee sixty days prior to the anticipated date of examination. The fee is not refundable.
(2) Applicants shall request the school of nursing to send an official transcript directly to the Washington state nursing commission. The transcript shall contain adequate documentation to verify that statutory requirements are met and shall include course names and credits accepted from other programs.
(3) Applicants shall also file an examination application, along with the required fee directly with the testing service.
(4) Applicants who have filed the required applications and met all qualifications will be notified of their eligibility, and only such applicants will be admitted to the examination.
(5) Applicants shall submit with the application one recent U.S. passport identification photograph of the applicant unmounted and signed by the applicant across the front.
(6) Persons applying for licensure shall submit, in addition to the
other requirements, evidence to show compliance with the AIDS education
requirements of WAC 246-840-100.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-050 Licensing examination. (1) The current series of the National Council of the State Boards of Nursing Registered Nurse or Practical Nurse Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN) Computerized Adaptive Test (NCLEX CAT) shall be the official examinations for nurse licensure. In order to be licensed in this state, all nurse applicants shall take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN).
(2) The NCLEX will consist of a Computerized Adaptive Test that will be individualized with the score for the examination reported as either pass or fail. Specific parameters of the exam will be as prescribed by contract with National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. (NCSBN).
(3) Examinations shall be conducted throughout the year.
(4) The executive director of the commission shall negotiate with NCSBN for the use of the NCLEX CAT.
(5) The examination shall be administered in accord with the NCSBN
security measures and contract. All appeals of examination results shall
be managed in accord with policies in the NCSBN contract.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-060 Release of results of examination. (1) Candidates shall be notified regarding the examination results by mail only.
(2) Candidates who pass shall receive a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse provided all other requirements are met.
(3) Candidates who fail shall receive a letter of notification regarding their eligibility to rewrite the examination.
(4) The candidate's examination results will be maintained in
his/her application file in the health professions quality assurance
division, department of health.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-070 Failures--Repeat examination. (1) The retest may be scheduled no sooner than ninety days following the date of the last exam taken.
(2) Request to retake the exam must be submitted to the commission no less than forty-five days prior to the anticipated test date.
(3) Candidates who fail the examination will be permitted to retake the examination three times within the two-year period from the month of first examination taken.
(4) Candidates who fail to pass the examination within the time
period specified in subsection (3) of this section shall be required to
complete a program of study approved by the commission. Upon successful
completion of the approved program, the candidate shall be required to
take the examination.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-080 Licensure of graduates of foreign schools of nursing. (1) Applicants for licensure educated in a country outside the United States or its territories shall meet the following requirements for licensure:
(a) Satisfactory completion of a basic nursing education program approved in the country of original licensure.
(i) The nursing education program shall be equivalent to the minimum standards prevailing for commission or state board approved schools of nursing in Washington at the time of graduation.
(ii) Any deficiencies in the nursing program (theory and clinical practice in medical, psychiatric, obstetric, surgical and pediatric nursing) shall be satisfactorily completed in a state board approved school of nursing.
(b) Screening exams:
for practical nurses:
Satisfactory passage of the test of English as a foreign language
(TOEFL). All applicants with nursing educations obtained in countries
outside of the United States and never before licensed in another
jurisdiction or territory of the United States, shall be required to take
the TOEFL and attain a minimum score of fifty in each section. Once an
applicant obtains a score of fifty in a section, the board will require
reexamination and passage only in the section(s) failed. Passage of all
sections of the TOEFL must be attained and the applicant must cause TOEFL
services to forward directly to the board a copy of the official
examinee's score record. These results must be timely received with the
individual's application before the NCLEX can be taken. Exceptions may
be made, in the commission's discretion and for good cause, to this
requirement.
for registered nurses:
Satisfactory passage of the screening examination for foreign nurses. As of May 1, 1981, all applicants from countries outside the United States, and never before licensed in one of the United States jurisdictions shall have passed the commission on graduates of foreign nursing schools (CGFNS) qualifying examination.
(c) Applicants licensed under the laws of a country outside the United States or its territories shall be required to take the current series of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensing exam for Practical or Registered Nurse (NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN) as provided in WAC 246-840-050: Provided, That those persons meeting the requirements of WAC 246-840-090(7) are exempt from this requirement; or show evidence of having already successfully passed the state board licensing examination for practical or registered nurses in another jurisdiction or territory of the United States with the passing standard required in Washington.
(d) All other requirements of the statute and regulation shall be met.
(2) Applicants for examination shall:
(a) File with the nursing commission a completed license application with the required fee sixty days prior to the anticipated date of the examination. The fees are not refundable.
(b) Request the school of nursing to submit an official transcript directly to the health professions quality assurance division of department of health. The transcript shall contain the date of graduation and the credential conferred, and shall be in English or accompanied by an official English translation notarized as a true and correct copy.
(c) Applicants shall also file an examination application, along with the required fee directly with the testing service.
(d) Persons applying for licensure shall submit, in addition to the other requirements, evidence to show compliance with the education requirements of WAC 246-840-100.
(e) Request the licensing agency in the country of original license to submit evidence of licensure.
(f) Submit a notarized copy of the certificate issued by the CGFNS or results of TOEFL exam.
(g) If the applicant's original documents (education and licensing) are on file in another state or with the CGFNS, the applicant may request that the state board or the CGFNS send notarized copies in lieu of the originals.
(h) Submit one recent passport sized photograph of the applicant
unmounted and signed by the applicant across the front.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-090 Licensure by interstate endorsement. A license to
practice as a nurse in Washington may be issued without examination
provided the applicant meets all of the following requirements:
for practical nurse programs:
(1) The applicant has graduated and holds a credential from:
(a) A commission or state board approved program preparing candidates for licensure as a practical nurse; or
(b) Its equivalent as determined by the commission, which program must fulfill the minimum requirement for commission or state board approved practical nursing programs in Washington at the time of graduation.
(2) Applicants shall have passed a state board constructed test, the SBTPE (state board test pool examination), or NCLEX in their original state of licensure.
(3) The applicant held or currently holds a license to practice as a practical nurse in another state or territory. If the license is lapsed or inactive for three years or more, the applicant must successfully complete a commission approved refresher course before an active Washington license is issued.
(4) That grounds do not exist for denial under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(5) The applicant shall:
(a) Submit a completed application with the required fee. The fee is not refundable.
(b) Submit, in addition to the other requirements, evidence to show
compliance with the education requirements of WAC 246-840-100.
for registered nurse programs:
(6) The applicant has graduated and holds a degree/diploma from a commission or state board approved school of nursing preparing candidates for licensure as a registered nurse provided such nursing program is equivalent to the minimum nursing educational standards prevailing for commission or state board approved schools of nursing in Washington at the time of the applicant's graduation.
(a) Applicants who were licensed prior to January 1, 1953, shall have scored at least seventy-five percent on the commission or state board examination in the state of original licensure.
(i) Applicants licensed after January 1, 1953, but before June 1, 1982, shall have passed the state board test pool examination for registered nurse licensure with a minimum standard score of 350 in each test.
(ii) Applicants licensed after July 1, 1982, shall have passed with a minimum standard score as established by contract with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
(b) The applicant holds a valid current license to practice as a registered nurse in another state or territory.
(c) The applicant complies with the education requirements of WAC 246-840-100.
(d) The application shall be completed and notarized, the fee must be filed with the application. The fee is not refundable. A notarized copy of a valid current license shall be filed with the application.
(e) Verification of licensure by examination shall be obtained from the state or territory of original licensure. Any fee for verification required by the state or territory of original license shall be paid by the applicant.
(7) Applicants from countries outside the United States who were granted a license in another United States jurisdiction or territory prior to December 31, 1971, and who were not required to pass the state board test pool examination shall meet the following requirements:
(a) The nursing education program shall meet the minimum approved standards prevailing for schools of nursing in Washington at the time of the applicant's graduation.
(b) The applicant holds a valid current license to practice as a registered nurse in another United States jurisdiction or territory.
(c) The applicant shall submit to the commission:
(i) A complete notarized application. The nonrefundable fee must be filed with the application.
(ii) Verification of original licensure obtained in the United States jurisdiction or territory.
(iii) Notarized copies of educational preparation and licensure by examination submitted directly from the country of original licensure or from the state commission or territory of original United States licensure.
(iv) Verification of current nursing practice for three years prior to application for Washington licensure.
(v) Evidence to show compliance with the education requirements of WAC 246-840-100.
(d) The applicant shall meet all requirements of chapter 18.79 RCW
and regulations of the commission.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-100 AIDS education and training. (1) Acceptable education and training. The commission will accept education and training that is consistent with the model curriculum available from the office on AIDS. Such education and training shall be a minimum of seven hours and shall include, but is not limited to, the following: Etiology and epidemiology; testing and counseling; infection control guidelines; clinical manifestations and treatment; legal and ethical issues to include confidentiality; and psychosocial issues to include special population considerations.
(2) Implementation. The requirement for licensure application, renewal, or reinstatement of any license on lapsed, inactive, or disciplinary status shall include completion of AIDS education and training. All persons affected by this section shall show evidence of completion of an education and training program, which meets the requirements of subsection (1) of this section.
(3) Documentation. The licensee shall:
(a) Certify, on forms provided, that the minimum education and training has been completed;
(b) Keep records for two years documenting attendance and description of the learning; and
(c) Be prepared to validate, through submission of these records,
that education and training has taken place.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-105 Brief adjudicative proceedings--Denials based on
failure to meet education, experience, or examination prerequisites for
licensure. The commission adopts RCW 34.05.482 and 34.05.485 through
34.05.494 for adjudicative proceedings requested by applicants, who are
denied a license under chapter 18.79 RCW or chapter 246-840 WAC for
failure to meet the education, experience, or examination prerequisites
for licensure. The sole issue at the adjudicative proceeding shall be
whether the applicant meets the education, experience, and examination
prerequisites for the issuance of a license.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-110 Renewal of licenses. (1) Individuals making application, and meeting all educational and testing requirements, will be issued a license, to expire on their birth anniversary date.
(2) Licensees may renew their licenses, at the current renewal fee rate. Before the expiration date of the individual's license, the secretary shall mail a notice for renewal of license to every person holding a current license. The licensee must return such notice along with current renewal fees and surcharges prior to the expiration of said license. Failure of any licensee to receive such notice shall not relieve or exempt such licensee from the requirements of this section.
(3) The late payment penalty provision will be applied as follows: Any renewal that is postmarked or presented to the department after midnight on the expiration date is late and subject to a late renewal penalty fee.
(4) A license, active or inactive, that is not renewed is considered lapsed. If the licensee fails to renew his or her license within one year from expiration thereof, such individual must apply for licensing under the statutory conditions then in force. If the licensee fails to renew the license within three years from the expiration date, the individual must also meet the requirements of WAC 246-840-120.
(5) Illegal practice: Any person practicing as a licensed practical
nurse or registered nurse during the time that such individual's license
is inactive or has lapsed shall be considered an illegal practitioner and
shall be subjected to all the penalties provided for violators under the
provisions of RCW 18.130.190.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-113 Impaired practical nurse program--Content--License surcharge. (1) To implement an impaired practical nurse program as authorized by RCW 18.130.175, the nursing commission shall enter into a contract with a voluntary substance abuse monitoring program. The impaired practical nurse program may include any or all of the following:
(a) Contracting with providers of treatment programs;
(b) Receiving and evaluating reports of suspected impairment from any source;
(c) Intervening in cases of verified impairment;
(d) Referring impaired practical nurses to treatment programs;
(e) Monitoring the treatment and rehabilitation of impaired practical nurses including those ordered by the board;
(f) Providing education, prevention of impairment, posttreatment monitoring, and support of rehabilitated impaired practical nurses; and
(g) Performing other related activities as determined by the board.
(2) A contract entered into under subsection (1) of this section
shall be financed by a surcharge of up to four dollars on each active
license renewal to be collected by the department of health from each
practical nurse licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW. These moneys shall be
placed in the health professions account to be used solely for the
implementation of the impaired practical nurse program.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-115 Responsibility for maintaining mailing address.
It is the responsibility of each licensee to maintain a current mailing
address on file with the commission. The mailing address on file with
the commission shall be used for mailing of all official matters from the
commission to the licensee. If charges against the licensee are mailed
by certified mail to the address on file with the commission and returned
unclaimed or are unable to be delivered for any reason, then the
commission may proceed against the licensee by default under RCW
34.05.440.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-120 Return to active status from inactive or lapsed
status. Persons on inactive and/or lapsed status for three years or
more, who do not hold a current active license in any other United States
jurisdiction and who wish to return to active status shall be issued a
limited educational license to enroll in a commission approved refresher
course. Upon successful completion of the course, the individual's
license shall be returned to active status. The limited educational
license is valid only while working under the direct supervision of a
preceptor and is not valid for employment as a licensed practical or
registered nurse. Upon successful completion of the course, the
individual's license shall be returned to active status.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-130 Criteria for approved refresher course. (1) Philosophy, purpose and objectives.
(a) Philosophy, purpose and objectives of the course shall be clearly stated and available in written form. They shall be consistent with the definition of nursing as outlined in chapter 18.79 RCW.
(b) Objectives reflecting the philosophy shall be stated in behavioral terms and describe the capabilities and competencies of the graduate.
(2) Faculty.
(a) All nurse faculty shall hold a current license to practice as a registered nurse in the state of Washington.
(b) All faculty shall be qualified academically and professionally for their respective areas of responsibility.
(c) All faculty shall be qualified to develop and implement the program of study.
(d) Faculty shall be sufficient in number to achieve the stated program objectives.
(e) The maximum faculty to student ratio in the clinical area shall be 1 to 12. Exceptions shall be justified to and approved by the commission.
(3) Course content.
(a) The course content, length, methods of instruction and learning
experiences shall be consistent with the philosophy and objectives of the
course. Outlines and descriptions of all learning experiences shall be
available in writing.
for practical nurse programs:
(b) The course content shall consist of a minimum of sixty hours of theory content and one hundred twenty hours of clinical practice.
(c) The theory course content shall include, but not be limited to, a minimum of sixty hours in current basic concepts of:
(i) Nursing process;
(ii) Pharmacology;
(iii) Review of the concepts in the areas of:
(A) Practical nursing today including legal expectations;
(B) Basic communications and observational practices needed for identification, reporting, and recording patient needs; and
(C) Basic physical, biological, and social sciences necessary for practice; and
(iv) Review and updating of practical nursing knowledge and skills to include, but not be limited to, concepts of fundamentals, medical/surgical, parent/child, geriatric, and mental health nursing.
(d) The clinical course content shall include a minimum of one
hundred twenty hours of clinical practice in the area(s) listed in (c)
of this subsection. Exceptions shall be justified to and approved by the
commission.
for registered nurse programs:
(e) The course content shall consist of a minimum of forty hours core course content, forty hours of specialty course content, and one hundred sixty hours of clinical practice in the specialty area.
(f) The core course content shall include, but not be limited to, a minimum of forty hours of theory in current basic concepts of:
(i) Nursing process;
(ii) Pharmacology;
(iii) Review of the concepts in the areas of:
(A) Professional nursing today including legal expectations;
(B) Basic communications and observational practices needed for identification, reporting, and recording patient needs; and
(C) Basic physical, biological and social sciences necessary for practice; and
(iv) Review and updating of basic nursing knowledge.
(g) The specialty course content shall include, but not be limited to, a minimum of forty hours of theory in current specialty nursing practice concepts of basic nursing related to the special area of interest such as surgical; pediatrics; obstetrics; psychiatric; acute, intensive, or extended care nursing; or community health nursing.
(h) The clinical course content shall include a minimum of one
hundred sixty hours of clinical practice in the specialty area(s) listed
in (c) and (d) of this subsection. Exceptions shall be justified to and
approved by the commission.
for both registered nurse and practical nurse programs:
(4) Evaluation.
(a) Evaluation methods shall be used to measure the student's achievement of the stated theory and clinical objectives.
(b) The course shall be periodically evaluated by faculty and students.
(5) Admission requirements.
(a) Any person holding an inactive practical or registered nurse license in another state may apply for a limited educational license provided that the applicant meets the requirements of WAC 246-840-120.
(b) Requirements for admission shall be available in writing.
(c) All students shall hold a current valid license or hold (apply and be eligible for) a limited educational license approved by the commission.
(6) Records.
(a) Evidence that the student has successfully completed the course and met the stated objectives shall be kept on file.
(b) The refresher course provider shall submit a certification of successful completion of the course to the commission office.
(7) Refresher courses taken outside of the state of Washington shall
be reviewed individually for approval by the commission prior to starting
the course.
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ADVANCED PRACTICE
NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-300 Advanced registered nurse practitioner. An advanced registered nurse practitioner is a registered nurse prepared in a formal educational program to assume an expanded role in providing health care services. Advanced registered nurse practitioners function within the scope of practice reviewed and approved by the commission. Those scopes reviewed are the statements of scope accepted by the certifying bodies as the basis for their test plan and selection of test items. Advanced registered nurse practitioners are qualified to assume primary responsibility for the care of their patients. This 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 wellness and conditions as appropriate to the ARNP's area of specialization. An advanced registered nurse practitioner shall:
(1) Hold a current license to practice as a registered nurse in Washington; and
(2) Have completed a formal advanced nursing education meeting the requirements of WAC 246-840-305; and
(3) Present documentation of initial certification credential for specialized and advanced nursing practice granted by a national certifying body whose certification program is approved by the commission, and subsequently maintain currency and competency as defined by the certifying body; and
(4) Be held accountable to scope of practice and the standards of
care established for the specialty as reviewed and approved by the
commission.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-305 Criteria for formal advanced nursing education meeting the requirement for ARNP licensure. (1) The college or university graduate education program which prepares the registered nurse for advanced nursing practice as an ARNP shall have as its primary purpose the preparation of nurses for the expanded nursing role as an advanced registered nurse practitioner. Documentation that may be requested to substantiate preparation for the ARNP role may include, but shall not be limited to:
(a) The philosophy, purpose, and objectives of the program, which are clearly defined and available in written form.
(b) The objectives reflecting the philosophy which are written in outcomes that describe the competencies of the graduate.
(c) Administrative policies of the program, which include:
(i) Clearly stated admission criteria, available in written form.
(ii) Provision of official evidence that the student has completed the program successfully.
(iii) Documentation that the program is conducted by an accredited college or university.
(d) Evidence that faculty meet the following requirements:
(i) Inclusion of faculty who are currently authorized to assume primary responsibility for patient care in the given specialty.
(ii) Only medical faculty who are authorized to practice.
(iii) The number of qualified faculty in the specialty area available to develop and implement the program is adequate.
(iv) Preceptors participate in teaching, supervising, and evaluating students. Criteria are in place for selection and functioning of preceptors. Preceptors guide students and communicate with faculty regarding student progress.
(e) Curriculum of the advanced nursing practice program which reflects:
(i) Course content that is consistent with the philosophy and objectives of the program.
(ii) Theory and clinical experience relevant to the specialized area of advanced practice and leading to achievement of the defined outcome competencies. These shall include content in biological, behavioral, nursing, medical, pharmacological, and regulation of the advanced practice role.
(iii) Before January 1, 1995, content that requires a minimum of one academic year for completion.
(iv) After January 1, 1995, content that culminates in a graduate degree with a concentration in advanced nursing practice.
(v) If the educational program to prepare for the advanced nursing practice role is taken after completion of the graduate degree, the candidate must submit evidence that the practitioner preparation program, as stated in (e)(ii) of this subsection, is equivalent to that leading to a graduate degree in advanced practice specialty.
(f) Outlines and descriptions of curriculum content which are available in written form.
(2) The commission will review educational programs that an
applicant is considering for preparation for advanced practice to assist
in selection of a program that meets requirements. All requests for
review must be in writing. Written response will be provided to all
applicants in this category and maintained in applicant's file at the
board of nursing.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-310 Use of nomenclature. Any person who qualifies under WAC 246-840-300 and whose application for advanced registered nurse practitioner designation has been approved by the commission shall be designated as an advanced registered nurse practitioner and shall have the right to use the title "advanced registered nurse practitioner" or nurse practitioner and the abbreviation following the nurse's name shall read "ARNP" and the title or abbreviation designated by the approved national certifying body. No other initials or abbreviations shall legally denote advanced nursing practice. No other person shall assume such title or use such abbreviation. No other person shall use any other title, words, letters, signs or figures to indicate that the person using same is recognized as an advanced registered nurse practitioner and:
(1) Family nurse practitioner, FNP; or
(2) Women's health care nurse practitioner; or
(3) Pediatric nurse practitioner/associate, PNP/PNA; or
(4) Adult nurse practitioner, ANP; or
(5) Geriatric nurse practitioner, GNP; or
(6) Certified nurse midwife/nurse midwife, CNM; or
(7) Certified registered nurse anesthetist, CRNA; or
(8) School nurse practitioner, SNP; or
(9) Neonatal nurse practitioner, NNP.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-315 Clinical specialist in psychiatric/mental health
nursing. Clinical specialist in psychiatric/mental health nursing is an
advanced practice specialty which may qualify for ARNP licensure as
delineated in WAC 246-840-305. Clinical specialist in psychiatric/mental
health is a title which may be used by persons certified by the national
credentialing body, but who are not ARNP's.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-320 Certification and certification program. (1) Certification is a form of credentialing, under sponsorship of a national certifying body that recognizes specialized and advanced nursing practice.
(2) A certification program is used by a national certifying body to grant the certification credential. A certification program shall be based on:
(a) A scope of practice statement as identified in WAC 246-840-300 shall denote the dimension and boundary, the focus, and the standards of specialized and advanced nursing practice in the area of certification.
(b) A formal program of study requirement in the area of certification which shall:
(i) Be based on measurable objectives that relate directly to the scope of practice;
(ii) Include theoretical and clinical content directed to the objectives; and
(iii) Be equivalent to at least one academic year. A preceptorship which is part of the formal program shall be included as part of the academic year. Current practice in the area of certification will not be accepted as a substitute for the formal program of study.
(c) An examination in the area of certification which shall:
(i) Measure the theoretical and clinical content denoted in the scope of practice;
(ii) Be developed in accordance with generally accepted standards of validity and reliability; and
(iii) Be open only to registered nurses who have successfully
completed the program of study referred to in (b) of this subsection.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-330 Commission approval of certification programs. (1) A licensee may request that a certification program be considered for approval and shall submit documentation showing that the program meets the requirements of WAC 246-840-320(2).
(2) The commission shall periodically review each certification program and may discontinue approval in the event that a certification program no longer meets the requirements of WAC 246-840-320(2).
(3) The commission shall notify licensees of pending review and may
request that further information be provided regarding continued
compliance with the provisions of WAC 246-840-320(2).
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-340 Application requirements for ARNP. A registered nurse applicant for licensure as an ARNP shall:
(1) Submit a completed application and nonrefundable fee as specified in WAC 246-840-990.
(2) Meet the requirements of WAC 246-840-300 and 246-840-305. The following documents shall be submitted as evidence to these requirements:
(a) An official transcript received by the commission directly from the formal advanced nursing education program showing all courses, grades, degree or certificate granted, official seal and appropriate registrar or program director's signature.
(b) Program objectives and course descriptions.
(c) Documentation from program director or faculty specifying the area of specialty, unless such is clearly indicated on the official transcript.
(3) Have graduated from an advanced nursing education program, as defined in WAC 246-840-300, within five years of application; if longer than five years have practiced a minimum of one thousand five hundred hours in an expanded specialty role within five years immediately preceding application.
(4) Submit evidence of certification by a certification program approved by the commission.
(5) Persons not meeting the educational requirements in subsection (2) of this section may be licensed if:
(a) Certified prior to December 31, 1994, by a national certifying organization recognized by the commission at the time certification was granted; and
(b) Recognized as an advanced registered nurse practitioner by another jurisdiction prior to December 31, 1994; and
(c) Completed an advanced registered nurse practitioner program equivalent to one academic year.
(6) Persons not meeting the requirements in subsection (3) of this
section may be licensed following successful completion of five hundred
hours of clinical practice supervised by an advanced registered nurse
practitioner or a physician (licensed under chapter 18.71 or 18.57 RCW)
in the same specialty area. Following completion of the supervised
practice, the supervisor shall submit an evaluation to the commission and
verify that the applicant's knowledge and skills are at a safe and
appropriate level.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-345 ARNP designation in more than one area of specialty. (1) An applicant who wishes to be recognized in more than one ARNP area of specialization and title shall be required to submit separate application and nonrefundable fee for each area.
(2) All requirements in WAC 246-840-300 through 246-840-370 must be
met for each area of specialization.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-350 Application requirements for ARNP interim permit. A registered nurse who has completed advanced formal education and registered for a commission approved national certification examination may be issued an interim permit to practice specialized and advanced nursing pending notification of the results of the first certification examination. The holder of an ARNP permit shall use the title graduate registered nurse practitioner (GRNP).
(1) An applicant for ARNP interim permit shall:
(a) Submit a completed application on a form provided by the commission accompanied by a nonrefundable fee as specified in WAC 246-840-990; and
(b) Submit documentation of completion of advanced formal education in the area of specialty; and
(c) Submit documentation of registration for the first certification examination administered by an approved certification program following completion of advanced formal education; and
(d) Hold a current license to practice as a registered nurse in Washington.
(2) The permit expires when advanced registered nurse practitioner status is granted. If the applicant fails the examination, the interim permit shall expire upon notification and is not renewable.
(3) An applicant who does not write the examination on the date scheduled shall immediately return the permit to the department of health.
(4) The interim permit authorizes the holder to perform the
functions of advanced and specialized nursing practice as described in
this section.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-360 Renewal of ARNP designation. ARNP designation shall be renewed every two years on the ARNP's birthday. The applicant shall:
(1) Maintain a current registered nurse license in Washington.
(2) Submit evidence of current certification by her/his certifying body.
(3) Provide documentation of thirty contact hours (a contact hour is fifty minutes) of continuing education during the renewal period in the area of certification derived from any combination of the following approved by the commission:
(a) Formal academic study;
(b) Continuing education offerings.
(4) Attest, on forms provided by the commission, to having a minimum of two hundred fifty hours of specialized and advanced nursing practice within the preceding biennium providing direct patient care services. The commission may perform random audits of licensee's attestations.
(5) Submit a nonrefundable fee as specified. If the licensee fails
to renew his or her ARNP designation prior to the expiration date, then
the individual is subject to the late renewal fee specified in WAC 246-840-990.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-365 Return to active ARNP status from inactive or lapsed status. Persons on inactive or lapsed status who do not hold a current active license in any other United States jurisdiction and who wish to return to active status shall apply for reinstatement of ARNP licensure. This requires:
(1) Current RN license in the state of Washington.
(2) Evidence of current certification by his/her certifying body.
(3) Documentation of thirty contact hours of continuing education in the area of specialty during the last two years.
(4) Two hundred fifty hours of precepted/supervised advanced clinical practice supervised by an ARNP or physician in the same specialty within the last year.
During the time of the preceptorship, the nurse will be practicing under RN license and will not use the designation ARNP.
ARNP licensure must be reinstated before reapplying for prescriptive
authority. At that time the CE requirement will be the same as if
applying for prescriptive authority for the first time, as in WAC 246-840-410.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-370 Termination of ARNP designation by the commission. ARNP designation may be terminated by the commission when the ARNP has:
(1) Practiced outside the scope of practice denoted for the area of certification; or
(2) Been found in violation of any provision of RCW 18.79.250 or
18.130.180.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-400 ARNP with prescriptive authorization. An advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW when authorized by the nursing commission may prescribe drugs pursuant to applicable state and federal laws. The ARNP when exercising prescriptive authority is accountable for competency in:
(1) Patient selection;
(2) Problem identification through appropriate assessment;
(3) Medication and/or device selection;
(4) Patient education for use of therapeutics;
(5) Knowledge of interactions of therapeutics, if any;
(6) Evaluation of outcome; and
(7) Recognition and management of complications and untoward
reactions.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-410 Application requirements for ARNP with prescriptive authority. An advanced registered nurse practitioner who applies for authorization to prescribe drugs shall:
(1) Be currently designated as an advanced registered nurse practitioner in Washington.
(2) Be designated by their national certifying body as:
(a) A family nurse practitioner; or
(b) A women's health care nurse practitioner; or
(c) A pediatric nurse practitioner/associate; or
(d) An adult nurse practitioner; or
(e) A geriatric nurse practitioner; or
(f) A nurse midwife; or
(g) A nurse anesthetist; or
(h) A school nurse practitioner; or
(i) A clinical specialist in psychiatric and mental health nursing; or
(j) A neonatal nurse practitioner.
(3) Provide evidence of completion of thirty contact hours of education in pharmacotherapeutics related to the applicant's scope of specialized and advanced practice and:
(a) Include pharmacokinetic principles and their clinical application and the use of pharmacological agents in the prevention of illness, restoration, and maintenance of health.
(b) Are obtained within a two-year time period immediately prior to the date of application for prescriptive authority.
(c) Are obtained from the following:
(i) Study within the advanced formal educational program; and/or
(ii) Continuing education programs.
Exceptions shall be justified to and approved by the commission.
(4) Submit a completed, notarized application on a form provided by
the commission accompanied by a nonrefundable fee as specified in WAC
246-840-990.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-420 Authorized prescriptions by the ARNP with prescriptive authority. (1) Prescriptions for drugs shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws.
(2) Prescriptions shall be signed by the prescriber with the initials ARNP.
(3) Prescriptions for controlled substances in Schedules I through IV are prohibited by RCW 18.79.240 (1)(r).
(4) Any ARNP with prescriptive authorization who prescribes Schedule
V controlled substances shall register with the drug enforcement
administration.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-430 Termination of ARNP prescriptive authorization. Prescriptive authorization may be terminated by the commission when the ARNP with prescriptive authority has:
(1) Not maintained current designation as an ARNP in the area of certification; or
(2) Prescribed outside the ARNP scope of practice or for other than therapeutic purposes; or
(3) Violated provisions of RCW 18.79.250; or
(4) Violated any state or federal law or regulations applicable to
prescriptions.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-440 Prescriptive authorization period. (1) Prescriptive authorization shall be for a period of two years.
(2) Initial authorization shall expire on the applicant's renewal date for ARNP designation.
(3) Authorization shall be renewed after the applicant meets the
requirements of WAC 246-840-450.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-450 Renewal. ARNP with prescriptive authorization shall be renewed every two years. For renewal of ARNP with prescriptive authorization, the licensee shall:
(1) Meet the requirements of WAC 246-840-360 (1), (2), and (3).
(2) Provide documentation of fifteen additional contact hours of continuing education during the renewal period in pharmacotherapeutics related to licensee's scope of practice. This continuing education shall meet the requirements of WAC 246-840-410 (3)(a).
(3) Submit a completed and notarized renewal application with a
nonrefundable fee as specified in WAC 246-840-990. If the licensee fails
to renew his or her prescriptive authorization prior to the expiration
date, then the individual is subject to the late renewal fee specified
in WAC 246-840-990.
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AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 95-21-072, filed 10/16/95, effective
11/16/95)
WAC 246-840-540 Appeal of commission decisions. A nursing
education program deeming itself aggrieved by a decision of the
commission affecting its approval status shall have the right to appeal
the commission's decision in accordance with the provisions of chapter
((18.88)) 18.79 RCW and the Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 34.05
RCW.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.79.110. 95-21-072, 246-840-540, filed
10/16/95, effective 11/16/95.]
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 95-21-072, filed 10/16/95, effective
11/16/95)
WAC 246-840-565 Students in approved nursing education programs. (1) The approved nursing education program shall:
(a) Provide in writing policies and procedures for selection, admission, progression, graduation, withdrawal, and dismissal. These policies shall be consistent with the policies of the governing institution. Where necessary, policies specific to nursing students may be adopted if justified by the nature and purposes of the nursing program.
(b) Maintain a system of student records.
(c) Provide a written statement of student rights and responsibilities.
(d) Require that students who seek admission by transfer from another approved nursing education program, or readmission for completion of the program, shall meet the equivalent of the program's current standards.
(2) The nursing education program shall provide the student in an
ADN or BSN program with information on the legal definition and
parameters of the nursing technician role, as in WAC ((246-839-010(10)
and 246-839-840)) 246-840-010(19) and 246-840-840. Such information
shall be provided prior to the time of completion of the first clinical
course and shall clearly advise the student of their responsibilities,
should they choose to be employed as a nursing technician.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 18.79.110. 95-21-072, 246-840-565, filed
10/16/95, effective 11/16/95.]
NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-700 Standards of nursing conduct or practice. The
purpose of defining standards of nursing conduct or practice through WAC
246-840-700 and 246-840-710 is to identify responsibilities of the nurse
in health care settings and as provided in the Nursing Practice Act,
chapter 18.79 RCW. Violation of these standards may be grounds for
disciplinary action pursuant to chapter 18.130 RCW. Each individual,
upon entering the practice of nursing, assumes a measure of
responsibility and public trust and the corresponding obligation to
adhere to the standards of nursing practice. The nurse shall be
responsible and accountable for the quality of nursing care given to
clients. This responsibility cannot be avoided by accepting the orders
or directions of another person. The standards of nursing conduct or
practice include, but are not limited to the following:
for registered nurses:
(1) Nursing process:
(a) The registered nurse shall collect pertinent objective and subjective data regarding the health status of the client.
(b) The registered nurse shall plan and implement nursing care which will assist the client to maintain or return to a state of health or will support a dignified death.
(c) The registered nurse shall communicate significant changes in the client's status to appropriate members of the health care team. This communication shall take place in a time period consistent with the client's need for care.
(d) The registered nurse shall document, on essential client records, the nursing care given and the client's response to that care.
(2) Delegation and supervision: The registered nurse shall be accountable for the safety of clients receiving nursing service by:
(a) Delegating selected nursing functions to others in accordance with their education, credentials, and demonstrated competence.
(b) Supervising others to whom he/she has delegated nursing functions.
(3) Other responsibilities:
(a) The registered nurse shall have knowledge and understanding of the laws and rules regulating nursing and shall function within the legal scope of nursing practice.
(b) The registered nurse shall be responsible and accountable for practice based on and limited to the scope of her/his education, demonstrated competence, and nursing experience.
(c) The registered nurse shall obtain instruction, supervision, and consultation as necessary before implementing new or unfamiliar techniques or practices.
(d) The registered nurse shall be responsible for maintaining current knowledge in his/her field of practice.
(e) The registered nurse shall conduct nursing practice without discrimination.
(f) The registered nurse shall respect the client's right to privacy by protecting confidential information.
(g) The registered nurse shall report unsafe nursing acts and
practices, and illegal acts as defined in WAC 246-840-730.
for practical nurses:
(4) The licensed practical nurse, functioning under the direction and supervision of other licensed health care professionals as provided in RCW 18.79.060, shall be responsible and accountable for his or her own nursing judgments, actions and competence.
(5) The licensed practical nurse shall practice practical nursing in the state of Washington only with a current Washington license.
(6) The licensed practical nurse shall not permit his or her license to be used by another person for any purpose.
(7) The licensed practical nurse shall have knowledge of the statutes and rules governing licensed practical nurse practice and shall function within the legal scope of licensed practical nurse practice.
(8) The licensed practical nurse shall not aid, abet or assist any other person in violating or circumventing the laws or rules pertaining to the conduct and practice of licensed practical nursing.
(9) The licensed practical nurse shall not disclose the contents of any licensing examination or solicit, accept or compile information regarding the contents of any examination before, during or after its administration.
(10) The licensed practical nurse shall delegate activities only to persons who are competent and qualified to undertake and perform the delegated activities, and shall not delegate to unlicensed persons those functions that are to be performed only by licensed nurses.
(11) The licensed practical nurse, in delegating functions, shall supervise the persons to whom the functions have been delegated.
(12) The licensed practical nurse shall act to safeguard clients from unsafe practices or conditions, abusive acts, and neglect.
(13) The licensed practical nurse shall report unsafe acts and practices, unsafe practice conditions, and illegal acts to the appropriate supervisory personnel or to the appropriate state disciplinary board or commission.
(14) The licensed practical nurse shall respect the client's privacy by protecting confidential information, unless required by law to disclose such information.
(15) The licensed practical nurse shall make accurate, intelligible entries into records required by law, employment or customary practice of nursing, and shall not falsify, destroy, alter or knowingly make incorrect or unintelligible entries into client's records or employer or employee records.
(16) The licensed practical nurse shall not sign any record attesting to the wastage of controlled substances unless the wastage was personally witnessed.
(17) The licensed practical nurse shall observe and record the conditions of a client, and report significant changes to appropriate persons.
(18) The licensed practical nurse may withhold or modify client care which has been authorized by an appropriate health care provider, only after receiving directions from an appropriate person, unless in a life threatening situation.
(19) The licensed practical nurse shall leave a nursing assignment only after properly reporting to and notifying appropriate persons and shall not abandon clients.
(20) The licensed practical nurse shall not misrepresent his or her education and ability to perform nursing procedures safely.
(21) The licensed practical nurse shall respect the property of the client and employer and shall not take equipment, materials, property or drugs for his or her own use or benefit nor shall the licensed practical nurse solicit or borrow money, materials or property from clients.
(22) The licensed practical nurse shall not obtain, possess, distribute or administer legend drugs or controlled substances to any person, including self, except as directed by a person authorized by law to prescribe drugs.
(23) The licensed practical nurse shall not practice nursing while affected by alcohol or drugs, or by a mental, physical or emotional condition to the extent that there is an undue risk that he or she, as a licensed practical nurse, would cause harm to him or herself or other persons.
(24) It is inconsistent for a licensed practical nurse to perform
functions below the minimum standards of competency as expressed in WAC
246-840-715.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-705 Functions of a licensed practical nurse. A licensed practical nurse is one who has met the requirements of the Washington state Nurse Practice Act, chapter 18.79 RCW. The licensed practical nurse recognizes and is able to meet the basic needs of the client, and gives nursing care under the direction and supervision of the registered nurse or licensed physician to clients in routine nursing situations. In more complex situations the licensed practical nurse functions as an assistant to the registered nurse and carries out selected aspects of the designated nursing regimen.
A routine nursing situation is one that is relatively free of scientific complexity. The clinical and behavioral state of the client is relatively stable and requires abilities based upon a comparatively fixed and limited body of knowledge.
In complex situations, the licensed practical nurse facilitates client care by meeting specific nursing requirements to assist the registered nurse in the performance of nursing care.
The functions of the licensed practical nurse makes practical nursing a distinct occupation within the profession of nursing. The licensed practical nurse has specific roles in nursing in direct relation to the length, scope and depth of his or her formal education and experience. In the basic program of practical nursing education, the emphasis is on direct client care.
With additional preparation, through continuing education and
practice, the licensed practical nurse prepares to assume progressively
more complex nursing responsibilities.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-710 Violations of standards of nursing conduct or practice. The following will serve as a guideline for the nurse as to the acts, practices, or omissions that are inconsistent with generally accepted standards of nursing conduct or practice. Such conduct or practice may be grounds for action with regard to the license to practice nursing pursuant to chapter 18.79 RCW and the Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW. Such conduct or practice includes, but is not limited to the following:
(1) Failure to adhere to the standards enumerated in WAC 246-840-700(1) which may include:
(a) Failing to assess and evaluate a client's status or failing to institute nursing intervention as required by the client's condition.
(b) Willfully or repeatedly failing to report or document a client's symptoms, responses, progress, medication, or other nursing care accurately and/or intelligibly.
(c) Willfully or repeatedly failing to make entries, altering entries, destroying entries, making incorrect or illegible entries and/or making false entries in records pertaining to the giving of medication, treatments, or other nursing care.
(d) Willfully or repeatedly failing to administer medications and/or treatments in accordance with policy and procedure.
(e) Willfully or repeatedly failing to follow the policy and procedure for the wastage of medications where the nurse is employed or working.
(f) Willfully causing or contributing to physical or emotional abuse to the client.
(2) Failure to adhere to the standards enumerated in WAC 246-840-700(2) which may include:
(a) Delegating nursing care function or responsibilities to a person who the nurse knows or has reason to know lacks the ability or knowledge to perform the function or responsibility, or delegating to unlicensed persons those functions or responsibilities the nurse knows or has reason to know are to be performed only by licensed persons. This section should not be construed as prohibiting delegation to family members and other caregivers exempted by RCW 18.79.040(3), 18.79.050, 18.79.060 or 18.79.240.
(b) Failure to supervise those to whom nursing activities have been delegated. Such supervision shall be adequate to prevent an unreasonable risk of harm to clients.
(3) Failure to adhere to the standards enumerated in WAC 246-840-700(3) which may include:
(a) Performing or attempting to perform nursing techniques and/or procedures for which the nurse lacks the appropriate knowledge, experience, and education and/or failing to obtain instruction, supervision and/or consultation for client safety.
(b) Violating the confidentiality of information or knowledge concerning the client, except where required by law or for the protection of the client.
(c) Writing prescriptions for drugs unless authorized to do so by the board.
(4) Other violations:
(a) Appropriating for personal use medication, supplies, equipment, or personal items of the client, agency, or institution.
(b) Practicing nursing while impaired by any mental, physical and/or emotional condition to the extent that the person may be unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety.
(c) Willfully abandoning clients by leaving a nursing assignment without transferring responsibilities to appropriate personnel or caregiver when continued nursing care is required by the condition of the client(s).
(d) Practicing nursing while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.
(e) Conviction of a crime involving physical abuse or sexual abuse
relating to the practice of nursing.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-715 Standards/competencies. Minimum standards of competency expected of beginning licensed practical nurses include the following:
(1) Standard I - The practical nurse assists in implementing the nursing process. The nursing process is defined as a systematic approach to nursing care which has the goal of facilitating an optimal level of functioning for the client, recognizing cultural and religious diversity.
The components of the nursing process are assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating. Written and verbal communication is essential to the nursing process.
Competencies:
(a) Assessment - Makes observations, gathers data and assists in identification of needs and problems relevant to the client.
(i) Makes basic observations of clients' safety and comfort needs.
(ii) Identifies physical discomfort and environmental threats to client safety.
(iii) Identifies basic physiological, emotional, sociological, cultural, economic, and spiritual needs.
(iv) Collects specific data as directed.
(v) Identifies major deviation from normal.
(vi) Selects data from established sources relevant to client's needs or problems.
(vii) Collaborates in organizing data.
(viii) Assists in formulating the list of clients' needs or problems.
(ix) Identifies major short-term and long-term needs of clients.
(b) Planning - Contributes to the development of approaches to meet the needs of clients and families.
(i) Develops client care plans, utilizing a standardized nursing care plan.
(ii) Assists in setting priorities for nursing care.
(iii) Participates in client care conferences.
(c) Implementation - Carries out planned approaches to client care.
(i) Carries out nursing actions developed in care plan to ensure safe and effective nursing care.
(ii) Performs common therapeutic nursing techniques.
(iii) Administers medications safely and accurately, within institutional policies and procedures, and with knowledge of the medication being administered.
(d) Evaluation - Utilizing a standard plan for nursing care, appraises the effectiveness of client care.
(i) Collaborates in data collection relevant to outcome of care.
(ii) Assists in comparing outcome of care to formulated objective.
(iii) Assists with adjustments in care.
(iv) Reports outcome of care given.
(2) Standard II. The practical nurse uses communication skills effectively in order to function as a member of the nursing team. Communication is defined as a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behaviors that serves as both a means of gathering information and of influencing the behavior and feelings of others.
Competencies:
Applies beginning skills in verbal, nonverbal and written communication, recognizing and respecting cultural diversity and respecting the spiritual beliefs of individual clients.
(a) Uses common medical terminology and abbreviations.
(b) Interprets common medical terminology and abbreviations.
(c) Reports pertinent client communications regarding his/her physical and psycho-social welfare.
(d) Develops a working relationship with the client, family, and health team members.
(e) Interviews clients to collect specific data with or without a structured tool.
(f) Identifies possible communication blocks.
(g) Recognizes that communication can be facilitated by certain responses.
(h) Interacts appropriately in a one-to-one relationship and in a group setting.
(i) Modifies own communication pattern.
(j) Documents observations and actions correctly in the chart.
(k) Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively in the work setting.
(3) Standard III. In a structured setting the practical nurse demonstrates responsibility for own actions by using common techniques of problem solving and decision making to plan and organize own assignment. Problem solving and decision making include utilization of available resources to secure a desired result.
Competencies:
(a) Participates in self-assessment.
(i) Identifies own strengths and weaknesses.
(ii) Maintains personal health.
(iii) Maintains appropriate appearance.
(iv) Seeks assistance as needed.
(v) Requests recommendations for improvements.
(vi) Incorporates new and appropriate behaviors in nursing action.
(vii) Evaluates completion of assigned duties.
(b) Seeks learning opportunities that will foster growth.
(i) Plans goals for self improvement of performance with help of a supervisor.
(ii) Seeks opportunities for personal vocational growth.
(iii) Utilizes new knowledge and skills.
(iv) Participates in staff development.
(v) Demonstrates knowledge of professional organization and other contributors to past and present nursing advancement.
(c) Applies knowledge of ethical and legal principles and responsibilities pertinent to self, clients, and others.
(i) Identifies scope and limitations of own role.
(ii) Functions within the law regulating the practice of practical nursing.
(iii) Demonstrates ethical practice in providing client care.
(iv) Respects and maintains the client's privacy interests.
(d) Practices conservation of available resources.
(i) Demonstrates an understanding of hospital and client costs by economical use of supplies and equipment.
(ii) Participates in nursing audit.
(e) Follows employer rules and regulations.
(i) Functions according to the job description, recognizing employer/employee expectations.
(ii) Explains employer rules and regulations as they apply to client and family.
(4) Standard IV. The practical nurse assists in the health teaching of clients recognizing individual differences. Health teaching is defined as facilitating learning and instructing clients and significant others in preventive and therapeutic measures.
Competencies:
(a) Health teaching - Assists in the development of teaching plans for the individual client.
(i) Identifies major health education needs and problems of clients.
(ii) Communicates observation of health and learning needs.
(iii) Assists in individualizing the teaching plan to include others when appropriate.
(b) Implements teaching of basic health information according to the appropriate teaching plan.
(c) Communicates client's request for information to appropriate team member.
(d) Documents client teaching on the appropriate records.
(5) Standard V. The practical nurse demonstrates an understanding of own role in the health care delivery system. Health care delivery systems are defined as the voluntary and governmental organizations and institutions at international, national, state, and local levels that influence health policy and encompass comprehensive services.
Competencies:
(a) Functions as a practical nurse within the health care delivery system. (See chapter 18.79 RCW.)
(i) Functions within the role of the practical nurse.
(ii) Identifies the basic functions of members of the health care delivery team.
(b) Recognizes functions of health care delivery systems.
(i) Identifies supportive services in client care settings.
(ii) Identifies community resources.
(iii) Identifies the need for assistance from other agencies.
(iv) Demonstrates ability to obtain information about health care agencies.
(c) Acts as client advocate in health maintenance and clinical care.
(i) Recognizes the rights of individuals to control their own health needs and make decisions about health services.
(ii) Provides client education concerning health care delivery systems.
(6) Standard VI. The practical nurse recognizes the need for change in a structured health care setting and demonstrates willingness to participate in effecting change. Change is defined as a systematic process which includes careful assessment and acceptance of responsibility for own actions, resulting in a significant alteration.
Competencies:
Recognizes need to adjust functions to comply with the accepted practical nurse role and assists in assessing effectiveness of current nursing practices in a given health care delivery system.
(a) Recognizes problems and the need for change in current nursing practice.
(b) Communicates needs for further change through appropriate channels.
(c) Identifies personal factors which influence response to change. Adapts own behavior.
(d) Accepts potential risks with instituting change.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-720 Mitigating circumstances. The commission
recognizes that there may be circumstances inherent to various practice
settings that may affect the commission's decision whether to issue a
statement of charges, to make a finding of unprofessional conduct, or to
determine a sanction.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-730 Mandatory reporting defined. The nursing
commission does not intend to cause every nursing error to be reported
or that mandatory reporting take away the disciplinary ability and
responsibility from the employer of the licensed practical nurse or
registered nurse.
for practical nurses:
(1) Any person, including health care facilities and agencies and state or local government, who is aware of a conviction or has made a determination or finding that a practical nurse has committed an act constituting unprofessional conduct as defined in RCW 18.130.180, including violation of chapter 246-840 WAC, shall report such conviction, determination or finding to the commission.
(2) Any person, including health care facilities and agencies and
state or local government, who has information that a practical nurse may
not be able to practice with reasonable skill and safety as a result of
a mental or physical condition, shall report such information to the
commission.
for registered nurses:
(3) Any person, including nurses, health care facilities and agencies, and state or local government agencies, who has knowledge or concern that a registered nurse has committed an act which constitutes unprofessional conduct as provided in RCW 18.130.180, including violations of chapter 246-840 WAC, or failed to meet accepted standards for the level at which the registered nurse is licensed, or is unable to practice with reasonable skill or safety as the result of a physical or mental condition shall report or cause a report to be made to the commission. Failure of any nurse to comply with the reporting requirements may in itself constitute a violation of nursing standards.
(4) The decision to report a suspected violation of chapter 18.130 or 18.79 RCW or the rules adopted thereunder shall be based on, but not limited to the following:
(a) The past history of the registered nurse's performance.
(b) A demonstrated pattern of unsafe practice or conduct in violation of the standards of nursing.
(c) The magnitude of any single occurrence for actual or potential harm to the public health and safety.
(5) The following shall always be reported to the nursing commission:
(a) A nurse impostor. As used herein "nurse impostor" means an individual who is ineligible for registered nursing licensure or advanced registered nurse practitioner licensure and who practices or offers to practice registered nursing or advanced nursing or uses any title, abbreviation, card, or device to indicate that the individual is licensed to practice in Washington.
(b) A person who is practicing registered nursing when the license has become void due to nonpayment of fees.
(c) A person who is practicing registered nursing as defined in chapter 18.79 RCW unless licensed as a registered nurse or practical nurse, or a person who is practicing as a nurse practitioner as defined in WAC 246-840-300 while not licensed as an advanced registered nurse practitioner.
(d) A registered nurse who has been convicted of a crime which relates to the practice of nursing.
(e) A registered nurse who has been dismissed from employment due to unsafe practice or conduct in violation of the standards of nursing.
(f) Client abuse by a registered nurse.
(g) A demonstrated pattern of conduct in violation of the standards of nursing as defined by the rules of the commission or a single occurrence that creates serious harm or risk to the client.
(h) Any violation of a disciplinary sanction imposed on a registered nurse's license by the commission.
(i) Substance abuse as defined in RCW 18.130.180 (6) and (23). Nursing professionals counseling impaired registered nurses for substance abuse are exempt from the reporting requirements except as provided in chapter 5.62 RCW.
(j) Any other cause for discipline as defined in RCW 18.130.170 and
18.130.180.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-745 Adjudicative proceedings. The commission adopts
the model procedural rules for adjudicative proceedings as adopted by the
department of health and contained in chapter 246-11 WAC, including
subsequent amendments.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-747 Appearance and practice before agency--Standards
of ethical conduct. All persons appearing in proceedings before the
commission in a representative capacity shall conform to the standards
of ethical conduct required of attorneys before the courts of Washington.
If any such person does not conform to such standards, the commission may
decline to permit such person to appear in a representative capacity in
any proceeding before it.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-750 Philosophy governing voluntary substance abuse
monitoring programs. The commission recognizes the need to establish a
means of proactively providing early recognition and treatment options
for licensed practical nurses or registered nurses whose competency may
be impaired due to the abuse of drugs or alcohol. The commission intends
that such nurses be treated and their treatment monitored so that they
can return to or continue to practice their profession in a way which
safeguards the public. To accomplish this the commission shall approve
voluntary substance abuse monitoring programs and shall refer licensed
practical nurses or registered nurses impaired by substance abuse to
approved programs as an alternative to instituting disciplinary
proceedings as defined in RCW 18.130.160.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-760 Terms used in WAC 246-840-750 through 246-840-780.(1) "Approved substance abuse monitoring program" or "approved monitoring program" is a program the commission has determined meets the requirements of the law and the criteria established by the commission in WAC 246-840-770 which enters into a contract with nurses who have substance abuse problems regarding the required components of the nurse's recovery activity and oversees the nurse's compliance with these requirements. Substance abuse monitoring programs do not provide evaluation or treatment to participating nurses.
(2) "Contract" is a comprehensive, structured agreement between the recovering nurse and the approved monitoring program wherein the nurse consents to comply with the monitoring program and its required components of the nurse's recovery activity.
(3) "Approved treatment facility" is a facility approved by the bureau of alcohol and substance abuse, department of social and health services according to chapter 70.96A RCW or RCW 69.54.030 to provide concentrated alcoholism or drug treatment if located within Washington state. Drug and alcohol treatment programs located out-of-state must be equivalent to the standards required for approval under chapter 70.96A RCW or RCW 69.54.030.
(4) "Substance abuse" means the impairment, as determined by the commission, of a nurse's professional services by an addiction to, a dependency on, or the use of alcohol, legend drugs, or controlled substances.
(5) "Aftercare" is that period of time after intensive treatment that provides the nurse and the nurse's family with group or individual counseling sessions, discussions with other families, ongoing contact and participation in self-help groups and ongoing continued support of treatment program staff.
(6) "Nurse support group" is a group of nurses meeting regularly to support the recovery of its members. The group provides a confidential setting with a trained and experienced nurse facilitator in which nurses may safely discuss drug diversion, licensure issues, return to work and other professional issues related to recovery.
(7) "Twelve-step groups" are groups such as alcoholics anonymous, narcotics anonymous, and related organizations based on a philosophy of anonymity, belief in a power outside of oneself, peer group association, and self-help.
(8) "Random drug screens" are laboratory tests to detect the
presence of drugs of abuse in body fluids which are performed at
irregular intervals not known in advance by the person to be tested.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-770 Approval of substance abuse monitoring programs. The commission will approve the monitoring program(s) which will participate in the commission's substance abuse monitoring program. A monitoring program approved by the commission may be contracted with an entity outside the department but within the state, out-of-state, or a separate structure within the department.
(1) The approved monitoring program will not provide evaluation or treatment to the participating nurses.
(2) The approved monitoring program staff must have the qualifications and knowledge of both substance abuse and the practice of nursing as defined in this chapter to be able to evaluate:
(a) Clinical laboratories;
(b) Laboratory results;
(c) Providers of substance abuse treatment, both individuals and facilities;
(d) Nurses' support groups;
(e) The nursing work environment; and
(f) The ability of the nurse to practice with reasonable skill and safety.
(3) The approved monitoring program will enter into a contract with the nurse and the commission to oversee the nurse's compliance with the requirements of the program.
(4) The approved monitoring program may make exceptions to individual components of the contract on an individual basis.
(5) The approved monitoring program staff will determine, on an individual basis, whether a nurse will be prohibited from engaging in the practice of nursing for a period of time and restrictions, if any, or the nurse's access to controlled substances in the work place.
(6) The approved monitoring program shall maintain records on participants.
(7) The approved monitoring program will be responsible for providing feedback to the nurse as to the acceptability of treatment progress.
(8) The approved monitoring program shall report to the commission any nurse who fails to comply with the requirement of the monitoring program.
(9) The approved monitoring program shall provide the commission with a statistical report on the program, including progress of participants, at least annually.
(10) The approved monitoring program shall receive from the
commission guidelines on treatment, monitoring, and limitations on the
practice of nursing for those participating in the program.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-780 Participants entering the approved substance abuse monitoring program must agree to the following conditions. (1)(a) The nurse shall undergo a complete physical and psychosocial evaluation before entering the approved monitoring program. This evaluation will be performed by health care professional(s) with expertise in chemical dependency. The person(s) performing the evaluation shall not also be the provider of the recommended treatment.
(b) The nurse shall enter into a contract with the commission and the approved substance abuse monitoring program to comply with the requirements of the program which shall include, but not be limited to:
(i) The nurse will undergo intensive substance abuse treatment in an approved treatment facility.
(ii) The nurse will agree to remain free of all mind-altering substances including alcohol except for medications prescribed by an authorized prescriber, as defined in RCW 69.41.030 and 69.50.101.
(iii) The nurse must complete the prescribed aftercare, which may include individual and/or group psychotherapy.
(iv) The nurse must cause the treatment counselor(s) to provide reports to the approved monitoring program at specified intervals. Reports shall include treatment prognosis and goals.
(v) The nurse will submit to random drug screening as specified by the approved monitoring program.
(vi) The nurse will attend nurses' support groups facilitated by a nurse and/or twelve-step group meetings as specified by the contract.
(vii) The nurse will comply with specified employment conditions and restrictions as defined by the contract.
(viii) The nurse shall sign a waiver allowing the approved monitoring program to release information to the commission if the nurse does not comply with the requirements of this contract.
(c) The nurse is responsible for paying the costs of the physical and psychosocial evaluation, substance abuse treatment, and random drug screens.
(d) The nurse may be subject to disciplinary action under RCW 18.130.160 if the nurse does not participate in the approved monitoring program, does not comply with specified employment restrictions, or does not successfully complete the program.
(2) A nurse who is not being investigated by the commission or subject to current disciplinary action or currently being monitored by the commission for substance abuse may voluntarily participate in the approved substance abuse monitoring program without being referred by the commission.
(a) The nurse shall undergo a complete physical and psychosocial evaluation before entering the approved monitoring program. This evaluation will be performed by health care professional(s) with expertise in chemical dependency. The person(s) performing the evaluation shall not also be the provider of the recommended treatment.
(b) The nurse shall enter into a contract with the approved substance abuse monitoring program to comply with the requirements of the program which shall include, but not be limited to:
(i) The nurse will undergo intensive substance abuse treatment in an approved treatment facility.
(ii) The nurse will agree to remain free of all mind-altering substances including alcohol except for medications prescribed by an authorized prescriber as defined in RCW 69.41.030 and 69.50.101.
(iii) The nurse must complete the prescribed aftercare program of the intensive treatment facility, which may include individual and/or group psychotherapy.
(iv) The nurse must cause the treatment counselor(s) to provide reports to the approved monitoring program at specified intervals. Reports shall include treatment prognosis and goals.
(v) The nurse will submit to random drug screening as specified by the approved monitoring program.
(vi) The nurse will attend nurses' support groups facilitated by a nurse and/or twelve-step group meetings as specified by the contract.
(vii) The nurse will comply with employment conditions and restrictions as defined by the contract.
(viii) The nurse shall sign a waiver allowing the approved monitoring program to release information to the commission if the nurse does not comply with the requirements of this contract.
(c) The nurse is responsible for paying the costs of the physical and psychosocial evaluation, substance abuse treatment and random drug screens.
(3) The treatment and pretreatment records of license holders
referred to or voluntarily participating in approved monitoring programs
shall be confidential, shall be exempt from RCW 42.17.250 through
42.17.450, and shall not be subject to discovery by subpoena or
admissible as evidence except for monitoring records reported to the
disciplinary authority for cause as defined in subsections (1) and (2)
of this section. Records held by the commission under this section shall
be exempt from RCW 42.17.250 through 42.17.450 and shall not be subject
to discovery by subpoena except by the license holder.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-800 Scope of practice--Advisory opinions. (1) The commission may issue advisory opinions in response to questions put to it by professional health associations, nursing practitioners and consumers concerning the authority of various categories of nursing personnel to perform particular acts. Such questions must be presented in writing to the department staff.
(2) Questions may be referred to a committee of the commission. Upon such referral, the committee shall develop a draft response which shall be presented to the full commission at a public meeting for ratification, rejection or modification. The committee may, at its discretion, consult with health care practitioners for assistance in developing its draft response.
(3) If the commission issues an opinion on a given issue, such opinion shall be provided to the requesting party and shall be included in the commission minutes.
(4) Each opinion issued shall include a clear statement to the effect that:
(a) The opinion is advisory and intended for the guidance of the requesting party only; and
(b) The opinion is not legally binding and does not have the force and effect of a duly promulgated regulation or a declaratory ruling by the commission.
(5) In no event shall this section be construed to supersede the
authority of the commission to adopt rules related to the scope of
practice nor shall it be construed to restrict the ability of any person
to propose a rule or to seek a declaratory judgment from the commission.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-810 Provision for continuity of drug therapy for residents. When a resident of a long-term care facility has the opportunity for an unscheduled therapeutic leave that would be precluded by the lack of an available pharmacist to dispense drugs prescribed by an authorized practitioner, a registered nurse designated by the facility and its consultant or staff pharmacist and who agrees to such designation, may provide the resident or a responsible person with up to a seventy-two-hour supply of a prescribed drug or drugs for use during that leave from the resident's previously dispensed package of such drugs. The drugs shall only be provided in accordance with protocols developed by the pharmaceutical services committee and shall be available for inspection. These protocols shall include the following:
(1) Criteria as to what constitutes an unscheduled therapeutic leave requiring the provision of drugs by the registered nurse;
(2) Procedures for repackaging and labeling the limited supply of previously dispensed drugs by the designated registered nurse that comply with all state and federal laws concerning the packaging and labeling of drugs;
(3) Provision to assure that none of the medication provided to the resident or responsible person may be returned to the resident's previously dispensed package of such drug or to the facility's stock.
(4) Assurance that the RN informs the resident or responsible person of:
(a) The name, strength and quantity of drug provided;
(b) The proper administration of the drug;
(c) Potential adverse responses to the drug; and
(d) What actions to take should adverse responses occur.
(5) Provision for documenting by the RN in the resident's health record:
(a) Date and time of unscheduled leave;
(b) Name, strength and quantity of drug provided;
(c) Name of person to whom the drug was given and by whom it was given; and
(d) Confirmation that information described in subsection (2) of this section was provided.
See WAC 246-865-070 for related regulations regarding this practice.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-820 Provision for clean, intermittent catheterization in schools. Public school districts and private schools that offer classes for any of the grades kindergarten through twelve may provide for clean, intermittent catheterization of students or assisted self-catheterization of students who are in the custody of the school district at the time in accordance with the following rules:
(1) The student's file shall contain a written request from the parent(s) or guardian for the clean, intermittent catheterization of the student.
(2) The student's file shall contain written permission from the parent(s) or guardian for the performance of the clean, intermittent catheterization procedure by the nonlicensed school employee.
(3) The student's file shall contain a current written order for clean, intermittent catheterization from the student's physician and shall include written instructions for the procedure. The order shall be reviewed and/or revised each school year.
(4) The student's file shall contain written, current, and unexpired instructions from a registered nurse licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW regarding catheterization which include:
(a) A designation of the school district or private school employee or employees who may provide for the catheterization; and
(b) A description of the nature and extent of any required supervision.
(5) The service shall be offered to all handicapped students and may be offered to the nonhandicapped students, at the discretion of the school board.
(6) The registered nurse shall develop instructions specific to the needs of the student. These shall be made available to the nonlicensed school employee and shall be updated each school year.
(7) The supervision of the self-catheterizing student shall be based on the needs of the student and the skill of the nonlicensed school employee.
(8) The registered nurse, designated by the school board, shall be responsible for the training of the nonlicensed school employees who are assigned to perform clean, intermittent catheterization of the students.
(9) The training of the nonlicensed school employee shall include but not be limited to:
(a) An initial in-service training, length determined by the registered nurse.
(b) An update of the instructions and a review of the procedure each school year.
(c) Anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the urinary system including common anomalies for the appropriate age group served.
(d) Techniques common to the urinary catheterization procedure.
(e) Identification and care of the required equipment.
(f) Common signs and symptoms of infection and recommended procedures to prevent the development of infections.
(g) Identification of the psychosocial needs of the parent/guardian and the students with emphasis on the needs for privacy and confidentiality.
(h) Documentation requirements.
(i) Communication skills including the requirements for reporting to the registered nurse or the physician.
(j) Medications commonly prescribed for the clean, intermittent catheterization patient and their side effects.
(k) Contraindications for clean, intermittent catheterization and the procedure to be followed if the nonlicensed school employee is unable to catheterize the student.
(l) Training in catheterization specific to the student's needs.
(m) Developmental growth patterns of the appropriate age group served.
(n) Utilization of a teaching model to demonstrate catheterization techniques with return demonstration performed by the nonlicensed school employee, if a model is available.
(10) The training of the nonlicensed school employee shall be
documented in the employee's permanent file.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-830 Determination and pronouncement of death by a licensed registered nurse. A registered nurse may determine and pronounce death, but shall not certify death as defined in RCW 70.58.160 unless the registered nurse is an ARNP-certified nurse midwife as defined in WAC 246-840-300.
(1) A registered nurse may assume responsibility for the determination and pronouncement of death only if there are written policies and procedures relating to the determination and pronouncement of death in the organization with which the registered nurse is associated as an employee or by contract, provided:
(a) The decedent was under the care of a health care practitioner qualified to certify cause of death; and
(b) The decedent was a patient of the organization with which the registered nurse is associated; and
(c) There is a "do not resuscitate order" in the patient's record when the decedent was assisted by mechanical life support systems at the time of determination and pronouncement of death.
(2) A registered nurse who assumes responsibility for the determination and pronouncement of death shall be knowledgeable of the laws and regulations regarding death and human remains which affect the registered nurse's practice of this responsibility.
(3) A registered nurse who assumes responsibility for the determination and pronouncement of death shall:
(a) Perform a physical assessment of the patient's condition;
(b) Insure that family and physician and other caregivers are notified of the death; and
(c) Document the findings of the assessment and notification in all
appropriate records.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-840 Nursing technician. The purpose of the role of nursing technician is to provide opportunity for students enrolled in an ADN or BSN program to gain work experience within the limits of their education, but not limited to the scope of functions of nursing assistant - certified.
(1) The nursing technician is as defined in WAC 246-840-010(19).
(2) The nursing technician shall have knowledge and understanding of the laws and rules regulating the nursing technician and shall function within the legal scope of nursing practice.
(3) The nursing technician shall be responsible and accountable for practicing within the scope and guidelines of policies defined by the employing agency.
(4) The nursing technician shall not be employed by a temporary
agency.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-850 Use of nomenclature. (1) Any person who meets the qualifications under WAC 246-840-010(19) and 246-840-860 shall use the title nursing technician and this title shall not be abbreviated.
(2) No other person shall assume such title.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-860 Nursing technician criteria. To be eligible for employment as a nursing technician a student must meet the following criteria:
(1) Satisfactory completion of at least one academic term (quarter or semester) of a nursing program approved by a commission or board of nursing (ADN, diploma, or BSN). The term must have included a clinical component.
(2) Currently enrolled in a nursing commission approved program will be considered to include:
All periods of regularly planned educational programs and all school scheduled vacations and holidays.
(3) The period of time of notification to the commission of completion of nursing education, following graduation and application for examination, not to exceed sixty days from the date of graduation.
(4) Current enrollment will not be construed to include:
(a) Leaves of absence or withdrawal, temporary or permanent, from the nursing educational program.
(b) Students enrolled in nursing department classes who are solely enrolled in academic nonnursing supporting course work, whether or not those courses are required for the nursing degree.
(c) Students who are awaiting the opportunity to reenroll in nursing
courses.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-870 Functions of the nursing technician. The nursing technician:
(1) Shall function only under the supervision of the registered nurse.
(2) May gather information about patients and administer care to patients.
(3) Shall not be responsible for performing the ongoing assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the care of patients.
(4) Shall never function as an independent practitioner, as a team leader, charge nurse, or in a supervisory capacity.
(5) May administer medications only under the direct supervision of a registered nurse and within the limits described in this section. "Direct supervision" means that the registered nurse is on the premises, is quickly and easily available, and that the patients have been assessed by the registered nurse prior to the delegation of the medication duties to the nursing technician. The nursing technician shall not administer chemotherapy, blood or blood products, intravenous medications, scheduled drugs, nor carry out procedures on central lines.
There shall be written documentation from the nursing education
program attesting to the nursing technician's preparation in the
procedures of medication administration.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-880 Functions of the registered nurse supervising the nursing technician. The registered nurse:
(1) Is accountable at all times for the client's safety and well-being.
(2) Is responsible at all times for the nursing process as delineated in WAC 246-840-700 and this responsibility cannot be delegated.
(3) Shall maintain at all times an awareness of the care activities of the nursing technician and of the current assessment of the patient.
(4) Shall be available at all times to the nursing technician and
shall be physically present within the health care facility.
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-890 Responsibilities of the employing facility. The employer of the nursing technician shall:
(1) Verify the nursing technician's enrollment in a nursing education program approved by the state board of nursing or commission in the state in which the program is located.
(2) Verify satisfactory completion of each academic term (semester or quarter) within two weeks of completion date.
(3) Obtain written documentation from the approved nursing education program of the nursing technician's current level of education preparation and his/her knowledge and skills.
(4) Assign the nursing technician to perform only to the level identified in subsection (3) of this section.
(5) Provide the nursing technician from an educational program approved by a state board of nursing or commission other than the Washington nursing commission with board authorized information on the legal definition and parameters of the nursing technician role, as in WAC 246-840-010(19) and 246-840-840 through 246-840-870. Such information shall be provided prior to the commencement of patient care activities by the nursing technician. The facility shall obtain written verification from the nursing technician of receipt and review of this information and the facility shall retain the written verification for a minimum of three years from the last date of employment.
(6) Advise the commission of the names and addresses of the nursing technician and the name and address of the nursing education program for any and all nursing technicians employed at the facility.
(7) Identify the student nurse as a "nursing technician."
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NEW SECTION
WAC 246-840-900 Responsibilities of the nurse administrator. The nursing administrator or designee shall:
(1) Ensure that the nursing technician has been thoroughly oriented to the facility.
(2) Ensure that WAC 246-840-890 (3), (4), (5), (6), and (7) are accomplished prior to patient care assignments.
(3) Observe, evaluate, and document the skill level of the nursing technician in the administration of oral, intermuscular, and subcutaneous medication and nursing care skills.
(4) Convey in writing to all facility departments the scope within which the nursing technician may practice.
(5) Provide the supervising licensed registered nurse a written job
description for the nursing technician.
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AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 96-05-060, filed 2/19/96, effective
3/21/96)
WAC 246-840-930 Criteria for delegation. Before delegating a nursing task, the licensed registered nurse must determine that it is appropriate to delegate based on the following criteria:
(1) Determine that the setting allows delegation because it is a certified community residential program for the developmentally disabled, a licensed adult family home, or a licensed boarding home contracted to provide assisted living services.
(2) Determine that the task to be delegated is within the nurse's area of responsibility and that it is a specific care task that has been approved for delegation.
(3) Determine that the task to be delegated can be properly and safely performed by the nursing assistant-certified or nursing assistant-registered. The registered nurse shall assess the potential risk of harm for the individual patient. Potential harm may include, but is not limited to, infection, hemorrhage, hypoxemia, nerve damage, physical injury, or psychological distress.
(4) Assess the patient's nursing care needs and determine that the patient is in a stable and predictable condition.
(5) Analyze the complexity of the nursing task and determine the required training or additional training needed by the nursing assistant to competently accomplish the task. The registered nurse shall consider the psychomotor and cognitive skills required to perform the nursing task. More complex tasks may require additional training and supervision for the nursing assistant. The nurse must identify and facilitate any additional training of the nursing assistant that is needed prior to delegation. The nurse must ensure that the task to be delegated can be properly and safely performed by the nursing assistant.
(6) Assess the level of interaction required, considering language or cultural diversity that may affect communication or the ability to accomplish the task to be delegated, as well as methods to facilitate the interaction.
(7) Verify that the nursing assistant:
(a) Is currently registered or certified as a nursing assistant in Washington state and is in good standing without restriction;
(b) Has a certificate of completion issued by the department of social and health services indicating completion of core delegation training for nursing assistants; and
(c) Is willing to perform the task in the absence of direct or immediate nurse supervision and accept responsibility for their actions.
(8) Assess the ability of the nursing assistant to competently perform the delegated nursing task in the absence of direct or immediate nurse supervision to ensure that the nursing task can be properly and safely performed by the nursing assistant.
(9) Discuss the delegation with the patient or authorized representative, including the level of training of the nursing assistant delivering care. The patient, or authorized representative, must give written, informed consent to the delegation under chapter 7.70 RCW.
(10) Document in the patient's record the rationale for delegating or not delegating nursing tasks.
(11) Discuss the process for continuing, rescinding, or adding
medications to the delegation list when the ((physician)) health care
provider changes medication orders:
(a) The registered nurse must verify the change in medication or a
new medication order with the ((physician)) health care provider;
(b) If a change is made in the medication dosage or if a change is
made in the type of medication for the same problem (i.e., one medication
is deleted by the ((physician)) health care provider and another is
substituted) and the patient remains in a stable and predictable
condition, delegation can continue at the registered nurse's discretion;
and
(c) If a new medication is added, the registered nurse must review
the criteria and process for delegation prior to delegating the
administration of the new medication to the nursing assistant. The
registered nurse maintains the authority to decide if the new medication
can be added to the delegated task list immediately, if a site visit is
warranted prior to delegation, or if delegation is no longer appropriate.
If delegation is to be rescinded, the nurse must initiate and participate
in developing an alternative plan to assure the needs of the patient are
met.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.79 RCW. 96-05-060, 246-840-930,
filed 2/19/96, effective 3/21/96.]
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 96-05-060, filed 2/19/96, effective
3/21/96)
WAC 246-840-940 Process for delegation. If the registered nurse determines delegation is appropriate, the nurse must:
(1) Obtain the written informed consent of the patient or authorized representative under chapter 7.70 RCW, the delegating nurse, and the nursing assistant.
(2) Delegation requires the nurse teach the nursing assistant how to perform the task, including return demonstration under observation. The nurse shall observe the nursing assistant performing the delegated task to verify their competency to properly perform the task safely and accurately.
(3) Provide specific, written delegation instructions to the nursing assistant with a copy maintained in the patient's record that include:
(a) The rationale for delegating the nursing task;
(b) That the delegated nursing task is specific to one patient and is not transferable to another patient;
(c) That the delegated nursing task is specific to one nursing assistant and is not transferable to another nursing assistant;
(d) The nature of the condition requiring treatment and purpose of the delegated nursing task;
(e) A clear description of the procedure or steps to follow to perform the task;
(f) The predictable outcomes of the nursing task and how to effectively deal with them;
(g) The risks of the treatment;
(h) The interactions of prescribed medications;
(i) How to observe and report side effects, complications, or
unexpected outcomes and appropriate actions to deal with them, including
specific parameters for notifying the delegating registered nurse,
((physician)) health care provider, or emergency services;
(j) The action to take in situations where medications are altered
by ((physician)) health care provider orders, including:
(i) How to notify the registered nurse of the change;
(ii) The process the registered nurse will use to obtain
verification from the ((physician)) health care provider of the
medication change; and
(iii) The process to notify the nursing assistant of whether administration of the medication is delegated or not;
(k) How to document the task in the patient's record;
(l) Document what teaching was done and that a return demonstration was correctly done; and
(m) A plan of nursing supervision describing how frequently the registered nurse will supervise the performance of the delegated task by the nursing assistant and reevaluate the delegated nursing task. Supervision shall occur at least every sixty days.
(4) The administration of PRN medications may be delegated at the
discretion of the registered nurse. The nurse must first assess the
patient to determine that on-site patient assessment will not be required
prior to the ongoing administration of each PRN medication dose. The
registered nurse must provide written parameters specific to an
individual patient which includes guidelines for the nursing assistant
to follow in the decision-making process to administer the PRN medication
and the procedure to follow for such administration.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.79 RCW. 96-05-060, 246-840-940, filed 2/19/96, effective 3/21/96.]