Texas Senate Bill SB1880

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/17/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of nursing.

Impact

The legislation aims to enhance the public's safety by improving the standards that licensed nurses must meet. Through the implementation of targeted continuing education, the bill seeks to ensure that nurses are well-informed of the laws and regulations governing their practice. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for alcohol and drug evaluations for nurses when there is probable cause to believe that either mental or physical impairments could jeopardize patient safety. This regulatory change adds a layer of oversight intended to protect patients and maintain high nursing standards in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1880 primarily addresses the regulation of nursing within the state of Texas, focusing on the standards and procedures for licensing nurses. The bill proposes amendments to the Occupations Code, specifically regarding the continuing education requirements and the processes for evaluating nurses' competencies. It establishes a framework for targeted continuing nursing education, aimed at ensuring that registered nurses maintain adequate skills that align with their practice areas. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Board of Nurse Examiners develop pilot programs to evaluate various mechanisms for maintaining clinical competency through peer reviews and continuing education courses.

Contention

While supporters argue that the bill will bolster the integrity of the nursing profession and enhance patient care, there are concerns among some healthcare professionals regarding the scope and implications of mandatory evaluations and the potential stigma associated with mental health and substance abuse assessments. Critics highlight that while ensuring public safety is paramount, the proposed mechanisms for evaluations could inadvertently discourage individuals from seeking help for issues related to substance abuse or mental health, fearing it could affect their licensing. The balance between maintaining public trust in nursing practices and supporting nurses in distress will likely be a focal point in discussions surrounding this bill.