The Health Profession Bureau, through the Indiana State Board of Nursing, has broad regulatory and disciplinary powers. The board assists and monitors both individual nurses and the institutions that educate them. General Powers of the Board The Indiana Board of Nursing sets the standards of nursing competency for the state. It does this by setting rules and approving educational curricula. The educational programs are reviewed on an ongoing basis. The board may withdraw accreditation if necessary.
Any nurse wishing to practice in Indiana must be licensed by the board. Licenses must be renewed after a period of time set by the board. The Board of Nursing has the power to subpoena witnesses to appear at hearings. If prosecution is warranted, the board can influence the initiation of such charges. Also, demographic information about nurses in the state may be collected and distributed by the board. At times, subcommittees are necessary for the board to fulfill its mission. Nurses are often appointed to serve on such committees. Specific Powers of the Board.
The Board of Nursing has issued regulations specific to Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Advanced Practice Nurses. As a rule, the board requires that applicants for any of these licenses must submit to a detailed records check. The record must be free of any crimes that may affect the practice of nursing to the board-stated standards. Applicants must also meet curriculum standards and be physically able to perform the duties of the profession. A registered nurse applicant, in addition to the standard qualifications, may have to pass board-certified examinations to gain licensure.
Registered nurses, however, do not necessarily have to posses a baccalaureate degree. The applicant is also required to pay a fee. No person who has not completed these requirements is permitted to use the title “registered nurse” in Indiana. The requirements for a Licensed Practical Nurse are similar. The amount of education and the nature of the examination are the only differences. For an Advanced Practice Nurse, the requirements are a bit more stringent. Because prescription of medications is involved, specific courses in pharmacology are required.
The nurse is required to work in collaboration with a physician, as well as fulfill continuing education requirements. The Board of Nursing and The Health Professions Bureau work to standardize nursing care throughout Indiana. They are backed by state law that requires the licensure of nurses. The organizations are also assets to the careers of nurses, providing many opportunities for education and advancement. Source Indiana State Board of Nursing. (2005). Licensure Statutes and Administrative Rules. Indianapolis, Indiana: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.