NEW YORK NURSE: October/November 2007

Learn some, win some

Raffle Questions Provide Useful Answers

The following questions were asked in a raffle at the Education, Practice, and Research Program exhibit booth at Convention 2007:

Question 1

Which one of the following statements regarding the current educational advancement bill is TRUE?

  1. It is an attempt to dissolve the associate and diploma nursing programs.
  2. It will worsen the nursing shortage by lengthening the educational process.
  3. It will revoke the license of all RNs who do not hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing by 2010.
  4. It will require RNs to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing within 10 years of obtaining an associate degree/diploma in nursing.

The correct answer is D. Rationale: While seeking to expand the education requirement for RNs practicing in New York, this legislation recognizes associate degree and nursing diploma programs as appropriate ways to enter the profession. RNs would continue to enter the profession through these programs, but should advance their education over time. Studies have shown that a greater number of staff nurses with bachelor’s degrees results in a decrease in patient mortality among surgical patients, improved patient outcomes, and shorter lengths of stay.

Question 2

All of the following actions by an RN can lead to disciplinary action by the State Board of Nursing, EXCEPT:

  1. Failure to notify the State Board of Nursing of a change of address within 30 days.
  2. Permitting an unlicensed person to perform an act for which a license is required.
  3. Wearing a name badge bearing only the licensee’s name.
  4. Failure to notify the State Board of Nursing when currently receiving treatment for substance abuse.
  5. Altering a patient record with incorrect information.
  6. Failing to use accepted infection control prevention techniques.

The correct answer is D. Rationale: According to NYS Education Law, all the other choices can lead to disciplinary action by the State Board of Nursing. Here are more details:

  1. It is considered professional misconduct if you fail to notify the State Board of Nursing within 30 days of any change of name or address {Education Law, Article 130, Subtitle 3, Section 6509 (8)}.
  2. It is considered professional misconduct if you allow someone under your supervision to perform duties requiring a license {Education Law, Article 130, Subtitle 3, Section 6509 (7).
  3. You can be subject to unprofessional conduct if you fail to wear a name badge that is visible and bears your name and professional title. {Education Law, Article 130, Regents Rules, Part 29, Section 29.2 (a)(9)}.
  4. Although it is considered professional misconduct to practice while impaired, anyone undergoing treatment for substance abuse does not have to notify the State Board of Nursing, unless you are convicted of a crime, such as possession, DWI, or DWUI. Many RNs voluntarily suspend their professional license while in treatment, but it is not required by law.
  5. Failing to maintain a record for each patient that accurately reflects their evaluation and treatment can be grounds for unprofessional conduct. {Education Law, Article 130, Regents Rules, Part 29, Section 29.2 (a)(3)}.
  6. Failing to use scientifically accepted infection prevention techniques appropriate to the profession can result in charges of unprofessional conduct. {Education Law, Article 130, Regents Rules, Part 29, Section 29.2 (a)(13)}.

Education, Practice, and Research staff members congratulate raffle winners Mary Ellen Berg and Lydia Lopez. Each winner received a $50 gift certificate to e-leaRN™, NYSNA’s online continuing education portal (www.elearnonline.net).