What is the Oregon Nurse Practice Act? Our special guest, Dr. Sarah Wickenhagen, from the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN), will explain the essential rules and regulations that govern nursing practice in Oregon. In this episode, we unpack the parameters that LPNs, RNs, and APRNs work within. Plus, we talk about the critical decision-making processes that nurses must master, especially in ambiguous situations.
Dr. Wickenhagen explains that Chapter 678 of the Oregon regulatory statute outlines the regulations governing nursing practice in the state. The Act is divided into various sections, covering everything from licensing and education to specific nursing practices in care settings. Oregon’s broad scope of practice allows nurses to work at the highest level of their training and skills. For example, Oregon is one of several states that allow Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to operate as independent care providers.
The episode also explores the complexities of determining nurses’ scope of practice, particularly when performing specialized procedures. The Scope of Practice Decision-making Tree is a valuable tool that guides nursing professionals through legal and ethical considerations, helping them assess their readiness for specific tasks. Dr. Wickenhagen explains the interplay between different regulatory boards, employer policies, and the need for critical thinking in ambiguous situations.
The final part of the episode emphasizes the critical importance of nurses utilizing their judgment skills in their practice. Oregon’s nurses are encouraged to pause and assess their comfort and familiarity with tasks. This is especially true when facing unfamiliar or complex situations. Our discussion highlights the necessity of pushing back against employer requests that may violate the Nurse Practice Act and seeking guidance when necessary.
The State of Wellness podcast is hosted by the Oregon Center for Nursing, the state’s nonprofit nursing workforce center. Learn more at oregoncenterfornursing.org/podcast.
