Legal Aspects of Nursing

Course overview

Introduction : The laws and rules that are applicable to the practice of nursing in Florida include Title XXXII Regulation of Professions and Occupations, Chapters 456 and 464 of Florida Statutes as well as Division 64B9 of the Florida Administrative Code. Chapter 456 outlines the general provisions of health professions and occupations and applies to physicians as well as nurses. It provides the Ownership and control of patient records regulations that are the basis for provisions of the Nurse Practice Act. Chapter 464, Part 1, includes the Nurse Practice Act, which applies to professional registered nurses, advance practice nurses, and licensed practical nurses. The purpose of the Nurse Practice Act is to ensure that nurses meet minimum standards for safe practice. According to 64B9-8.006, “Thelegislature created the Board to assure protection of the public from nurses who do not meet minimum requirements for safe practice or who pose a danger to the public.” The Nurse Practice Act outlines the purpose of the Board of Nursing and its authority to make rules, provide licensure, and conduct disciplinary actions. The Board of Nursing sets standards for nursing education programs and provides approval of programs. Part II of Chapter 464 applies to certified nursing assistants.