NEW YORK NURSE: July/August 2007
by Nancy Webber
One year ago, former New York Governor George Pataki signed into law a measure that protects the title “nurse.” As of July 26 of this year, the law officially went into effect.
The legislation was written and actively supported by NYSNA, and limits the use of the title “nurse” to refer to only registered professional nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs).
“The title ‘nurse’ implies education and licensure,” said Renée Gecsedi, director of the NYSNA Nursing Advocacy and Information Program. “Title protection assures the public that the individual who is providing care has met New York State license requirements and is following the Scope and Standards and Code of Ethics developed by the American Nurses Association.”
It’s important to note that existing titles containing the word “nurse” for unlicensed personnel who assist RNs (such as nursing assistant or nurse aide) are not affected by the law and facilities can continue to use them. Cases of suspected title abuse (for example, an unlicensed person using the title “baby nurse” or “office nurse”) should be reported to the New York State Office of the Professions. Contact them at op4info@mail.nysed.gov or (518) 474-3817.