The Florida Senate

464.001  Short title.

464.002  Purpose.

464.003  Definitions.

464.0035  Joint committee appointees; staggered terms.

464.004  Board of Nursing; membership; appointment; terms.

464.0045  Board of Nursing; equitable distribution of staggered terms.

464.005  Board headquarters.

464.006  Authority to make rules.

464.008  Licensure by examination.

464.009  Licensure by endorsement.

464.012  Certification of advanced registered nurse practitioners; fees.

464.013  Renewal of license or certificate.

464.014  Inactive status.

464.015  Titles and abbreviations; restrictions; penalty.

464.016  Violations and penalties.

464.017  Sexual misconduct in the practice of nursing.

464.018  Disciplinary actions.

464.019  Approval of nursing programs.

464.0205  Retired volunteer nurse certificate.

464.022  Exceptions.

464.023  Saving clauses.

464.027  Registered nurse first assistant.

464.001  Short title.--This chapter shall be known as the "Nurse Practice Act."

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 1, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

464.002  Purpose.--The sole legislative purpose in enacting this chapter is to ensure that every nurse practicing in this state meets minimum requirements for safe practice. It is the legislative intent that nurses who fall below minimum competency or who otherwise present a danger to the public shall be prohibited from practicing in this state.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 2, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

464.003  Definitions.--As used in this chapter:

(1)  "Department" means the Department of Health.

(2)  "Board" means the Board of Nursing as created in this chapter.

(3)(a)  "Practice of professional nursing" means the performance of those acts requiring substantial specialized knowledge, judgment, and nursing skill based upon applied principles of psychological, biological, physical, and social sciences which shall include, but not be limited to:

1.  The observation, assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, intervention, and evaluation of care; health teaching and counseling of the ill, injured, or infirm; and the promotion of wellness, maintenance of health, and prevention of illness of others.

2.  The administration of medications and treatments as prescribed or authorized by a duly licensed practitioner authorized by the laws of this state to prescribe such medications and treatments.

3.  The supervision and teaching of other personnel in the theory and performance of any of the above acts.

(b)  "Practice of practical nursing" means the performance of selected acts, including the administration of treatments and medications, in the care of the ill, injured, or infirm and the promotion of wellness, maintenance of health, and prevention of illness of others under the direction of a registered nurse, a licensed physician, a licensed osteopathic physician, a licensed podiatric physician, or a licensed dentist.

The professional nurse and the practical nurse shall be responsible and accountable for making decisions that are based upon the individual's educational preparation and experience in nursing.

(c)  "Advanced or specialized nursing practice" means, in addition to the practice of professional nursing, the performance of advanced-level nursing acts approved by the board which, by virtue of postbasic specialized education, training, and experience, are proper to be performed by an advanced registered nurse practitioner. Within the context of advanced or specialized nursing practice, the advanced registered nurse practitioner may perform acts of nursing diagnosis and nursing treatment of alterations of the health status. The advanced registered nurse practitioner may also perform acts of medical diagnosis and treatment, prescription, and operation which are identified and approved by a joint committee composed of three members appointed by the Board of Nursing, two of whom shall be advanced registered nurse practitioners; three members appointed by the Board of Medicine, two of whom shall have had work experience with advanced registered nurse practitioners; and the secretary of the department or the secretary's designee. Each committee member appointed by a board shall be appointed to a term of 4 years unless a shorter term is required to establish or maintain staggered terms. The Board of Nursing shall adopt rules authorizing the performance of any such acts approved by the joint committee. Unless otherwise specified by the joint committee, such acts shall be performed under the general supervision of a practitioner licensed under chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 466 within the framework of standing protocols which identify the medical acts to be performed and the conditions for their performance. The department may, by rule, require that a copy of the protocol be filed with the department along with the notice required by s. 458.348.

(d)  "Nursing diagnosis" means the observation and evaluation of physical or mental conditions, behaviors, signs and symptoms of illness, and reactions to treatment and the determination as to whether such conditions, signs, symptoms, and reactions represent a deviation from normal.

(e)  "Nursing treatment" means the establishment and implementation of a nursing regimen for the care and comfort of individuals, the prevention of illness, and the education, restoration, and maintenance of health.

(4)  "Registered nurse" means any person licensed in this state to practice professional nursing.

(5)  "Licensed practical nurse" means any person licensed in this state to practice practical nursing.

(6)  "Advanced registered nurse practitioner" means any person licensed in this state to practice professional nursing and certified in advanced or specialized nursing practice.

(7)  "Approved program" means a nursing program conducted in a school, college, or university which is approved by the board pursuant to s. 464.019 for the education of nurses.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 3, 4, ch. 82-32; ss. 3, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 18, ch. 88-392; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 121, ch. 94-218; s. 1, ch. 96-274; s. 76, ch. 97-264; s. 210, ch. 98-166.

464.0035  Joint committee appointees; staggered terms.--For purposes of staggering the terms of the initial appointees to the joint committee under s. 464.003(3)(c), as amended by this act, the Board of Nursing and the Board of Medicine shall each appoint one member for a term of 2 years, one member for a term of 3 years, and one member for a term of 4 years.

History.--s. 2, ch. 96-274.

464.004  Board of Nursing; membership; appointment; terms.--

(1)  The Board of Nursing is created within the department and shall consist of 13 members to be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

(2)  Seven members of the board must be registered nurses who are residents of this state and who have been engaged in the practice of professional nursing for at least 4 years, including at least one advanced registered nurse practitioner, one nurse educator member of an approved program, and one nurse executive. These seven board members should be representative of the diverse areas of practice within the nursing profession. In addition, three members of the board must be licensed practical nurses who are residents of this state and who have been actively engaged in the practice of practical nursing for at least 4 years prior to their appointment. The remaining three members must be residents of the state who have never been licensed as nurses and who are in no way connected with the practice of nursing. No person may be appointed as a lay member who is in any way connected with, or has any financial interest in, any health care facility, agency, or insurer. At least one member of the board must be 60 years of age or older.

(3)  As the terms of the members expire, the Governor shall appoint successors for terms of 4 years, and such members shall serve until their successors are appointed.

(4)  All provisions of part II of chapter 455 relating to activities of the board shall apply.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 4, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 15, ch. 87-172; ss. 12, 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 122, ch. 94-218; s. 3, ch. 96-274; s. 77, ch. 97-264; s. 66, ch. 98-166.

464.0045  Board of Nursing; equitable distribution of staggered terms.--To ensure an equitable distribution of staggered terms for all members of the Board of Nursing, the Governor may appoint any one or more of the new members of the board required by the amendment of s. 464.004 by this act to a term of less than 4 years in accordance with the procedure set forth in s. 20.165(5).

History.--s. 4, ch. 96-274.

464.005  Board headquarters.--The board shall maintain its official headquarters in the ¹city in which it has been domiciled for the past 5 years.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

¹Note.--Jacksonville.

464.006  Authority to make rules.--The Board of Nursing has authority to adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement the provisions of this chapter conferring duties upon it.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 5, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 125, ch. 98-200.

464.008  Licensure by examination.--

(1)  Any person desiring to be licensed as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse shall apply to the department to take the licensure examination. The department shall examine each applicant who:

(a)  Has completed the application form and remitted a fee set by the board not to exceed $150 and has remitted an examination fee set by the board not to exceed $75 plus the actual per applicant cost to the department for purchase of the examination from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing or a similar national organization.

(b)  Has provided sufficient information on or after October 1, 1989, which must be submitted by the department for a statewide criminal records correspondence check through the Department of Law Enforcement.

(c)  Is in good mental and physical health, is a recipient of a high school diploma or the equivalent, and has completed the requirements for graduation from an approved program for the preparation of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses, whichever is applicable. Courses successfully completed in a professional nursing program which are at least equivalent to a practical nursing program may be used to satisfy the education requirements for licensure as a licensed practical nurse.

(d)  Has the ability to communicate in the English language, which may be determined by an examination given by the department.

(2)  Each applicant who passes the examination and provides proof of graduation from an approved nursing program shall, unless denied pursuant to s. 464.018, be entitled to licensure as a registered professional nurse or a licensed practical nurse, whichever is applicable.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 6, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 12, ch. 88-205; s. 10, ch. 88-219; s. 34, ch. 89-162; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 94, ch. 92-149; s. 5, ch. 96-274; s. 78, ch. 97-264.

464.009  Licensure by endorsement.--

(1)  The department shall issue the appropriate license by endorsement to practice professional or practical nursing to an applicant who, upon applying to the department and remitting a fee set by the board not to exceed $100, demonstrates to the board that he or she:

(a)  Holds a valid license to practice professional or practical nursing in another state of the United States, provided that, when the applicant secured his or her original license, the requirements for licensure were substantially equivalent to or more stringent than those existing in Florida at that time; or

(b)  Meets the qualifications for licensure in s. 464.008 and has successfully completed a state, regional, or national examination which is substantially equivalent to or more stringent than the examination given by the department.

(2)  Such examinations and requirements from other states shall be presumed to be substantially equivalent to or more stringent than those in this state. Such presumption shall not arise until January 1, 1980. However, the board may, by rule, specify states the examinations and requirements of which shall not be presumed to be substantially equivalent to those of this state.

(3)  The department shall not issue a license by endorsement to any applicant who is under investigation in another state for an act which would constitute a violation of this chapter until such time as the investigation is complete, at which time the provisions of s. 464.018 shall apply.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 7, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 1, ch. 87-240; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 6, ch. 96-274; s. 1104, ch. 97-103; s. 79, ch. 97-264.

464.012  Certification of advanced registered nurse practitioners; fees.--

(1)  Any nurse desiring to be certified as an advanced registered nurse practitioner shall apply to the department and submit proof that he or she holds a current license to practice professional nursing and that he or she meets one or more of the following requirements as determined by the board:

(a)  Satisfactory completion of a formal postbasic educational program of at least one academic year, the primary purpose of which is to prepare nurses for advanced or specialized practice.

(b)  Certification by an appropriate specialty board. Such certification shall be required for initial state certification and any recertification as a registered nurse anesthetist or nurse midwife. The board may by rule provide for provisional state certification of graduate nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives for a period of time determined to be appropriate for preparing for and passing the national certification examination.

(c)  Graduation from a program leading to a master's degree in a nursing clinical specialty area with preparation in specialized practitioner skills. For applicants graduating on or after October 1, 1998, graduation from a master's degree program shall be required for initial certification as a nurse practitioner under paragraph (4)(c). For applicants graduating on or after October 1, 2001, graduation from a master's degree program shall be required for initial certification as a registered nurse anesthetist under paragraph (4)(a).

(2)  The board shall provide by rule the appropriate requirements for advanced registered nurse practitioners in the categories of certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner.

(3)  An advanced registered nurse practitioner shall perform those functions authorized in this section within the framework of an established protocol. A practitioner currently licensed under chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 466 shall maintain supervision for directing the specific course of medical treatment. Within the established framework, an advanced registered nurse practitioner may:

(a)  Monitor and alter drug therapies.

(b)  Initiate appropriate therapies for certain conditions.

(c)  Perform additional functions as may be determined by rule in accordance with s. 464.003(3)(c).

(d)  Order diagnostic tests and physical and occupational therapy.

(4)  In addition to the general functions specified in subsection (3), an advanced registered nurse practitioner may perform the following acts within his or her specialty:

(a)  The certified registered nurse anesthetist may, to the extent authorized by established protocol approved by the medical staff of the facility in which the anesthetic service is performed, perform any or all of the following:

1.  Determine the health status of the patient as it relates to the risk factors and to the anesthetic management of the patient through the performance of the general functions.

2.  Based on history, physical assessment, and supplemental laboratory results, determine, with the consent of the responsible physician, the appropriate type of anesthesia within the framework of the protocol.

3.  Order under the protocol preanesthetic medication.

4.  Perform under the protocol procedures commonly used to render the patient insensible to pain during the performance of surgical, obstetrical, therapeutic, or diagnostic clinical procedures. These procedures include ordering and administering regional, spinal, and general anesthesia; inhalation agents and techniques; intravenous agents and techniques; and techniques of hypnosis.

5.  Order or perform monitoring procedures indicated as pertinent to the anesthetic health care management of the patient.

6.  Support life functions during anesthesia health care, including induction and intubation procedures, the use of appropriate mechanical supportive devices, and the management of fluid, electrolyte, and blood component balances.

7.  Recognize and take appropriate corrective action for abnormal patient responses to anesthesia, adjunctive medication, or other forms of therapy.

8.  Recognize and treat a cardiac arrhythmia while the patient is under anesthetic care.

9.  Participate in management of the patient while in the postanesthesia recovery area, including ordering the administration of fluids and drugs.

10.  Place special peripheral and central venous and arterial lines for blood sampling and monitoring as appropriate.

(b)  The certified nurse midwife may, to the extent authorized by an established protocol which has been approved by the medical staff of the health care facility in which the midwifery services are performed, or approved by the nurse midwife's physician backup when the delivery is performed in a patient's home, perform any or all of the following:

1.  Perform superficial minor surgical procedures.

2.  Manage the patient during labor and delivery to include amniotomy, episiotomy, and repair.

3.  Order, initiate, and perform appropriate anesthetic procedures.

4.  Perform postpartum examination.

5.  Order appropriate medications.

6.  Provide family-planning services and well-woman care.

7.  Manage the medical care of the normal obstetrical patient and the initial care of a newborn patient.

(c)  The nurse practitioner may perform any or all of the following acts within the framework of established protocol:

1.  Manage selected medical problems.

2.  Order physical and occupational therapy.

3.  Initiate, monitor, or alter therapies for certain uncomplicated acute illnesses.

4.  Monitor and manage patients with stable chronic diseases.

5.  Establish behavioral problems and diagnosis and make treatment recommendations.

(5)  The board shall certify, and the department shall issue a certificate to, any nurse meeting the qualifications in this section. The board shall establish an application fee not to exceed $100 and a biennial renewal fee not to exceed $50. The board is authorized to adopt such other rules as are necessary to implement the provisions of this section.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 4, ch. 84-268; ss. 8, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 7, ch. 96-274; s. 1105, ch. 97-103; s. 80, ch. 97-264.

464.013  Renewal of license or certificate.--

(1)  The department shall renew a license upon receipt of the renewal application and fee.

(2)  The department shall adopt rules establishing a procedure for the biennial renewal of licenses.

(3)  The board shall by rule prescribe continuing education not to exceed 30 hours biennially as a condition for renewal of a license or certificate. The criteria for programs shall be approved by the board.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 9, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 11, ch. 88-219; s. 1, ch. 89-170; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 176, ch. 94-119; s. 8, ch. 96-274; s. 81, ch. 97-264.

464.014  Inactive status.--

(1)  The board shall adopt rules relating to application procedures for inactive status, to the biennial renewal of inactive licenses, and to the reactivation of licenses. The board shall prescribe by rule an application fee for inactive status, a renewal fee for inactive status, a delinquency fee, and a fee for the reactivation of a license. None of these fees may exceed the biennial renewal fee established by the board for biennial renewal of an active license.

(2)  The department may not reactivate a license unless the inactive or delinquent licensee has paid any applicable biennial renewal or delinquency fee, or both, and a reactivation fee.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; s. 319, ch. 81-259; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 11, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 12, ch. 88-219; s. 35, ch. 89-162; s. 2, ch. 89-170; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 177, ch. 94-119; s. 9, ch. 96-274; s. 82, ch. 97-264.

464.015  Titles and abbreviations; restrictions; penalty.--

(1)  Only persons who hold licenses to practice professional nursing in this state or who are performing nursing services pursuant to the exception set forth in s. 464.022(8) shall have the right to use the title "Registered Nurse" and the abbreviation "R.N."

(2)  Only persons who hold licenses to practice as licensed practical nurses in this state or who are performing practical nursing services pursuant to the exception set forth in s. 464.022(8) shall have the right to use the title "Licensed Practical Nurse" and the abbreviation "L.P.N."

(3)  Only persons who are graduates of approved programs or the equivalent may use the term "Graduate Nurse" and the abbreviation "G.N.," pending the results of the first licensure examination for which they are eligible.

(4)  Only persons who are graduates of approved programs or the equivalent may use the term "Graduate Practical Nurse" and the abbreviation "G.P.N.," pending the results of the first licensure examination for which they are eligible.

(5)  Only persons who hold valid certificates to practice as advanced registered nurse practitioners in this state shall have the right to use the title "Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner" and the abbreviation "A.R.N.P."

(6)  No person shall practice or advertise as, or assume the title of, registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or advanced registered nurse practitioner or use the abbreviation "R.N.," "L.P.N.," or "A.R.N.P." or take any other action that would lead the public to believe that person was certified as such or is performing nursing services pursuant to the exception set forth in s. 464.022(8), unless that person is licensed or certified to practice as such.

(7)  A violation of this section is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 12, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

464.016  Violations and penalties.--

(1)  Each of the following acts constitutes a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084:

(a)  Practicing advanced or specialized, professional or practical nursing, as defined in this chapter, unless holding an active license or certificate to do so.

(b)  Using or attempting to use a license or certificate which has been suspended or revoked.

(c)  Knowingly employing unlicensed persons in the practice of nursing.

(d)  Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license or certificate under this chapter by misleading statements or knowing misrepresentation.

(2)  Each of the following acts constitutes a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083:

(a)  Using the name or title "Registered Nurse," "Licensed Practical Nurse," "Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner," or any other name or title which implies that a person was licensed or certified as same, unless such person is duly licensed or certified.

(b)  Knowingly concealing information relating to violations of this chapter.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 13, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 90, ch. 91-224; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

464.017  Sexual misconduct in the practice of nursing.--The nurse-patient relationship is founded on mutual trust. Sexual misconduct in the practice of nursing means violation of the nurse-patient relationship through which the nurse uses said relationship to induce or attempt to induce the patient to engage, or to engage or attempt to engage the patient, in sexual activity outside the scope of the practice or the scope of generally accepted examination or treatment of the patient. Sexual misconduct in the practice of nursing is prohibited.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; s. 320, ch. 81-259; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

464.018  Disciplinary actions.--

(1)  The following acts shall be grounds for disciplinary action set forth in this section:

(a)  Procuring, attempting to procure, or renewing a license to practice nursing by bribery, by knowing misrepresentations, or through an error of the department or the board.

(b)  Having a license to practice nursing revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against, including the denial of licensure, by the licensing authority of another state, territory, or country.

(c)  Being convicted or found guilty of, or entering a plea of nolo contendere to, regardless of adjudication, a crime in any jurisdiction which directly relates to the practice of nursing or to the ability to practice nursing.

(d)  Being found guilty, regardless of adjudication, of any of the following offenses:

1.  A forcible felony as defined in chapter 776.

2.  A violation of chapter 812, relating to theft, robbery, and related crimes.

3.  A violation of chapter 817, relating to fraudulent practices.

4.  A violation of chapter 800, relating to lewdness and indecent exposure.

5.  A violation of chapter 784, relating to assault, battery, and culpable negligence.

6.  A violation of chapter 827, relating to child abuse.

7.  A violation of chapter 415, relating to protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

8.  A violation of chapter 39, relating to child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.

(e)  Having a confirmed report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation as defined in s. 415.102(6) which has been uncontested or upheld under the procedures of s. 415.1075; or having committed an act which constitutes domestic violence as defined in s. 741.28.

(f)  Making or filing a false report or record, which the licensee knows to be false, intentionally or negligently failing to file a report or record required by state or federal law, willfully impeding or obstructing such filing or inducing another person to do so. Such reports or records shall include only those which are signed in the nurse's capacity as a licensed nurse.

(g)  False, misleading, or deceptive advertising.

(h)  Unprofessional conduct, which shall include, but not be limited to, any departure from, or the failure to conform to, the minimal standards of acceptable and prevailing nursing practice, in which case actual injury need not be established.

(i)  Engaging or attempting to engage in the possession, sale, or distribution of controlled substances as set forth in chapter 893, for any other than legitimate purposes authorized by this chapter.

(j)  Being unable to practice nursing with reasonable skill and safety to patients by reason of illness or use of alcohol, drugs, narcotics, or chemicals or any other type of material or as a result of any mental or physical condition. In enforcing this paragraph, the department shall have, upon a finding of the secretary or the secretary's designee that probable cause exists to believe that the licensee is unable to practice nursing because of the reasons stated in this paragraph, the authority to issue an order to compel a licensee to submit to a mental or physical examination by physicians designated by the department. If the licensee refuses to comply with such order, the department's order directing such examination may be enforced by filing a petition for enforcement in the circuit court where the licensee resides or does business. The licensee against whom the petition is filed shall not be named or identified by initials in any public court records or documents, and the proceedings shall be closed to the public. The department shall be entitled to the summary procedure provided in s. 51.011. A nurse affected by the provisions of this paragraph shall at reasonable intervals be afforded an opportunity to demonstrate that she or he can resume the competent practice of nursing with reasonable skill and safety to patients.

(k)  Failing to report to the department any person who the licensee knows is in violation of this chapter or of the rules of the department or the board; however, if the licensee verifies that such person is actively participating in a board-approved program for the treatment of a physical or mental condition, the licensee is required to report such person only to an impaired professionals consultant.

(l)  Knowingly violating any provision of this chapter, a rule of the board or the department, or a lawful order of the board or department previously entered in a disciplinary proceeding or failing to comply with a lawfully issued subpoena of the department.

(m)  Failing to report to the department any licensee under chapter 458 or under chapter 459 who the nurse knows has violated the grounds for disciplinary action set out in the law under which that person is licensed and who provides health care services in a facility licensed under chapter 395, or a health maintenance organization certificated under part I of chapter 641, in which the nurse also provides services.

(2)  When the board finds any person guilty of any of the grounds set forth in subsection (1), it may enter an order imposing one or more of the following penalties:

(a)  Refusal to certify to the department an application for licensure.

(b)  Revocation or suspension of a license with reinstatement subject to the provisions of subsection (3).

(c)  Permanent revocation of a license.

(d)  Restriction of practice.

(e)  Imposition of an administrative fine not to exceed $1,000 for each count or separate offense.

(f)  Issuance of a reprimand.

(g)  Placement of the nurse on probation for a period of time and subject to such conditions as the board may specify, including requiring the nurse to submit to treatment, to attend continuing education courses, to take an examination, or to work under the supervision of another nurse.

(3)  The board shall not reinstate the license of a nurse, or cause a license to be issued to a person it has deemed unqualified, until such time as it is satisfied that such person has complied with all the terms and conditions set forth in the final order and that such person is capable of safely engaging in the practice of nursing.

(4)  The board shall not reinstate the license of a nurse who has been found guilty by the board on three separate occasions of violations of this chapter relating to the use of drugs or narcotics, which offenses involved the diversion of drugs or narcotics from patients to personal use or sale.

(5)  The board shall by rule establish guidelines for the disposition of disciplinary cases involving specific types of violations. Such guidelines may include minimum and maximum fines, periods of supervision or probation, or conditions of probation or reissuance of a license.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; s. 321, ch. 81-259; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; s. 1, ch. 83-27; s. 27, ch. 83-329; ss. 14, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 40, ch. 88-1; s. 13, ch. 88-219; s. 19, ch. 88-277; s. 19, ch. 88-392; s. 3, ch. 89-170; s. 33, ch. 91-57; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 44, ch. 92-149; s. 24, ch. 94-134; s. 24, ch. 94-135; s. 20, ch. 95-152; s. 48, ch. 95-228; s. 136, ch. 95-418; s. 10, ch. 96-274; s. 1106, ch. 97-103; s. 83, ch. 97-264; s. 155, ch. 98-403.

464.019  Approval of nursing programs.--

(1)  An institution desiring to conduct an approved program for the education of professional or practical nurses shall apply to the department and submit such evidence as may be required to show that it complies with the provisions of this chapter and with the rules of the board. The application shall include a program review fee, as set by the board, not to exceed $1,000.

(2)  The board shall adopt rules regarding educational objectives, faculty qualifications, curriculum guidelines, administrative procedures, and clinical training as are necessary to ensure that approved programs graduate nurses capable of competent practice under this act.

(3)  The department shall survey each institution applying for approval and submit its findings to the board. If the board is satisfied that the program meets the requirements of this chapter and rules pursuant thereto, it shall certify the program for approval and the department shall approve the program.

(4)  If the board, through an investigation by the department, finds that an approved program no longer meets the required standards, it may place the program on probationary status until such time as the standards are restored. If a program fails to correct these conditions within a specified period of time, the board may rescind the approval. Any program having its approval rescinded shall have the right to reapply.

(5)  Provisional approval of new programs may be granted pending the licensure results of the first graduating class.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 11, ch. 96-274; s. 84, ch. 97-264.

464.0205  Retired volunteer nurse certificate.--

(1)  Any retired practical or registered nurse desiring to serve indigent, underserved, or critical need populations in this state may apply to the department for a retired volunteer nurse certificate by providing:

(a)  A complete application.

(b)  An application and processing fee of $25.

(c)  Verification that the applicant had been licensed to practice nursing in any jurisdiction in the United States for at least 10 years, had retired or plans to retire, intends to practice nursing only pursuant to the limitations provided by the retired volunteer nurse certificate, and has not committed any act that would constitute a violation under s. 464.018(1).

(d)  Proof that the applicant meets the requirements for licensure under s. 464.008 or s. 464.009.

(2)  All related administrative costs shall be borne by the applicant.

(3)  The board may deny a retired volunteer nurse certificate to any applicant who has committed, or who is under investigation or prosecution for, any act that would constitute a ground for disciplinary action under s. 464.018.

(4)  A retired volunteer nurse receiving certification from the board shall:

(a)  Work under the direct supervision of the director of a county health department, a physician working under a limited license issued pursuant to s. 458.317 or s. 459.0075, a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459, an advanced registered nurse practitioner certified under s. 464.012, or a registered nurse licensed under s. 464.008 or s. 464.009.

(b)  Comply with the minimum standards of practice for nurses and be subject to disciplinary action for violations of s. 464.018, except that the scope of practice for certified volunteers shall be limited to primary and preventive health care, or as further defined by board rule.

(c)  Work only in a setting for which there are provisions for professional liability coverage for acts or omissions of the retired volunteer nurse.

(d)  Provide services under the certificate only in settings whose sponsors have been approved by the board.

(5)  A retired volunteer nurse receiving certification from the board shall not:

(a)  Administer controlled substances.

(b)  Supervise other nurses.

(c)  Receive monetary compensation.

(6)  A retired volunteer nurse certified under this section may practice only in board-approved settings in public agencies or institutions or in nonprofit agencies or institutions meeting the requirements of s. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, which agencies or institutions are located in areas of critical nursing need as determined by the board. Determination of underserved areas shall be made by the board after consultation with the Department of Health, the Department of Children and Family Services, the Agency for Health Care Administration, and the Department of Elderly Affairs; however, such determination shall include, but not be limited to, health manpower shortage areas designated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The sponsoring agencies desiring to use certified retired volunteer nurses shall submit to the board verification of their status under s. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, the sites at which such volunteer nurses would work, the duties and scope of practice intended for such volunteer nurses, and the training or skills validation for such volunteer nurses.

(7)  The retired volunteer nurse certificate shall be valid for 2 years, and a certificateholder may reapply for a certificate so long as the certificateholder continues to meet the eligibility requirements of this section. Any legislatively mandated continuing education on specific topics must be completed by the certificateholder prior to renewal; otherwise, the provisions of s. 464.013 do not apply.

History.--s. 85, ch. 97-264.

464.022  Exceptions.--No provision of this chapter shall be construed to prohibit:

(1)  The care of the sick by friends or members of the family without compensation, the incidental care of the sick by domestic servants, or the incidental care of noninstitutionalized persons by a surrogate family.

(2)  Assistance by anyone in the case of an emergency.

(3)  The practice of nursing by students enrolled in approved schools of nursing.

(4)  The practice of nursing by graduates of approved programs or the equivalent, pending the result of the first licensing examination for which they are eligible following graduation, provided they practice under direct supervision of a registered professional nurse. The board shall by rule define what constitutes direct supervision.

(5)  The rendering of services by nursing assistants acting under the direct supervision of a registered professional nurse.

(6)  Any nurse practicing in accordance with the practices and principles of the body known as the Church of Christ Scientist; nor shall any rule of the board apply to any sanitarium, nursing home, or rest home operated in accordance with the practices and principles of the body known as the Church of Christ Scientist.

(7)  The practice of any legally qualified nurse or licensed attendant of another state who is employed by the United States Government, or any bureau, division, or agency thereof, while in the discharge of official duties.

(8)  Any nurse currently licensed in another state from performing nursing services in this state for a period of 60 days after furnishing to the employer satisfactory evidence of current licensure in another state and having submitted proper application and fees to the board for licensure prior to employment. The board may extend this time for administrative purposes when necessary.

(9)  The rendering of nursing services on a fee-for-service basis, or the reimbursement for nursing services directly to a nurse rendering such services by any government program, commercial insurance company, hospital or medical services plan, or any other third-party payor.

(10)  The establishment of an independent practice by one or more nurses for the purpose of rendering to patients nursing services within the scope of the nursing license.

(11)  The furnishing of hemodialysis treatments in a patient's home, using an assistant chosen by the patient, provided that the assistant is properly trained, as defined by the board by rule, and has immediate telephonic access to a registered nurse who is licensed pursuant to this chapter and who has dialysis training and experience.

(12)  The practice of nursing by any legally qualified nurse of another state whose employment requires the nurse to accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state for not more than 30 consecutive days, provided the patient is not in an inpatient setting, the board is notified prior to arrival of the patient and nurse, the nurse has the standing physician orders and current medical status of the patient available, and prearrangements with the appropriate licensed health care providers in this state have been made in case the patient needs placement in an inpatient setting.

History.--ss. 1, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 15, 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 1, ch. 88-270; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429; s. 86, ch. 97-264.

464.023  Saving clauses.--

(1)  No judicial or administrative proceeding pending on July 1, 1979, shall be abated as a result of the repeal and reenactment of this chapter.

(2)  Each licensee or holder of a certificate who was duly licensed or certified on June 30, 1979, shall be entitled to hold such license or certificate. Henceforth, such license or certificate shall be renewed in accordance with the provisions of this act.

History.--ss. 2, 5, 6, ch. 79-225; ss. 2, 3, ch. 81-318; ss. 17, 18, ch. 86-284; s. 58, ch. 91-137; s. 5, ch. 91-156; s. 4, ch. 91-429.

464.027  Registered nurse first assistant.--

(1)  LEGISLATIVE INTENT.--The purposes of this section are to:

(a)  Encourage the use of registered nurse first assistants who meet the qualifications of this section as "assistants at surgery" by physicians and hospitals to provide quality, cost-effective surgical intervention to health care recipients in the state.

(b)  Provide for reimbursement for the registered nurse first assistant from managed health care agencies, state agencies, workers' compensation carriers, and private insurance companies.

(2)  DEFINITIONS.--As used in this section, the term:

(a)  "Perioperative nursing" means a practice of nursing in which the nurse provides preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative nursing care to surgical patients.

(b)  "Recognized program" means a program that:

1.  Addresses all content of the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc. Core Curriculum for the Registered Nurse First Assistant, and

2.  Includes 1 academic year, defined as 45 hours of didactic instruction and 120 hours of clinical internship or its equivalent of 2 college semesters.

(c)  "Registered nurse first assistant" means a person who meets the qualifications listed in this section.

(3)  QUALIFICATIONS.--A registered nurse first assistant is any person who:

(a)  Is licensed as a registered nurse under this chapter;

(b)  Is certified in perioperative nursing; and

(c)  Holds a certificate from, and has successfully completed, a recognized program.

(4)  INSTITUTIONAL POWERS.--Each health care institution must establish specific procedures for the appointment and reappointment of registered nurse first assistant staff members and for granting, renewing, and revising their clinical privileges.

History.--s. 4, ch. 94-96.