NURSING RULES AND REGULATIONS
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Code of Colorado Regulations › 700 Department of Regulatory Agencies › 716 Division of Professions and Occupations - State Board of Nursing › 3 CCR 716-1
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DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AGENCIES
Division of Professions and Occupations - State Board of Nursing
NURSING RULES AND REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
[Editor’s Notes follow the text of the rules at the end of this CCR Document.]
1.1
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE LICENSURE OF PRACTICAL AND
PROFESSIONAL NURSES
A.
BASIS: The authority for the promulgation of these rules and regulations by the
State Board of Nursing is set forth in sections 12-20-202(3), 12-20-204(1), 12-
255-107(1)(b),(d) and (j), 12-255-109, 12-255-110, 12-255-114, 12-255-115, and
12-255-121, C.R.S.
B.
PURPOSE: To specify requirements for obtaining and maintaining professional
and practical nursing licensure.
C.
DEFINITIONS:
For the purposes of Rule 1.1, the following terms have the indicated meaning:
1.
Applicant: Any individual seeking a license to practice as a professional or
practical nurse in the State of Colorado.
2.
Approved Nursing Education Program (Approved Professional Nursing
Education Program/Approved Practical Nursing Education Program): A
course of study which implements the basic professional or practical
nursing curriculum prescribed and approved by the Board.
3.
Board: The Colorado State Board of Nursing.
4.
Clinical Experience for Continuing Competency: Any relevant experience
accumulated as a practical or professional nurse, including paid or unpaid
work experience, volunteer work, or student work. The gratuitous care of
friends or members of the family is not included in Clinical Experience.
5.
Clinical Supervision: The on-site guidance, direction, and review by a
professional nurse designated as an instructor/preceptor of the nursing
care provided by a holder of a special or student permit pursuant to
Sections (H) and (I) of Rule 1.1. This supervision includes assigning
nursing responsibilities for patient care appropriately and evaluating the
competency of the individual nurse.
Code of Colorado Regulations
Secretary of State
State of Colorado
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ptor of the nursing
care provided by a holder of a special or student permit pursuant to
Sections (H) and (I) of Rule 1.1. This supervision includes assigning
nursing responsibilities for patient care appropriately and evaluating the
competency of the individual nurse.
Code of Colorado Regulations
Secretary of State
State of Colorado
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6.
Encumbered: Any current form of discipline against a professional or
practical license that restricts the ability to practice, including but not
limited to, fine, probation, suspension, revocation, restriction, condition, or
limitation imposed on a license.
7.
Executive Officer: The executive administrator of the Board appointed by
the Director of the Division of Professions and Occupations pursuant to
section 12-255-106, C.R.S. The Executive Officer has been delegated
authority to administer examinations, issue licenses by endorsement and
examination, renew licenses, reinstate licenses, inactivate and reactivate
licenses, and issue temporary licenses and permits to qualified Applicants,
and other delegated functions as stated and set forth in Board rules and
policies.
8.
Graduate: An individual who has successfully completed the requirements
for a degree, diploma, or certificate from an Approved Nursing Education
Program or United States armed services traditional nursing education
program gained in military service outlined in section 12-20-202(4), C.R.S.
9.
Licensee: An individual licensed to practice as a professional or practical
nurse by the Board.
10.
NCLEX: The National Council Licensure Examination maintained, owned,
and created by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
11.
Nontraditional Nursing Education Program: A program with curricula that
does not include a faculty supervised teaching/learning component in
clinical settings taught concurrently with theoretical content.
12.
Practice: Any role which requires nursing skill and judgment.
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National Council Licensure Examination maintained, owned,
and created by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
11.
Nontraditional Nursing Education Program: A program with curricula that
does not include a faculty supervised teaching/learning component in
clinical settings taught concurrently with theoretical content.
12.
Practice: Any role which requires nursing skill and judgment.
13.
Unencumbered: No current restriction on a license to practice on any
professional or practical nursing license.
D.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL APPLICANTS
1.
Must apply in a manner approved by the Board.
2.
Pay application fee.
3.
Submit proof of successful completion of an Approved Nursing Education
Program, as set forth in Sections (E) and (F) of Rule 1.1.
4.
Submit proof of having passed:
a.
The NCLEX RN or NCLEX PN examination for professional or
practical nurses; or
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b.
The State Board Test Pool Examination for Professional Nurses
given between 1951 and 1982/1983; or
c.
The State Board Test Pool Examination for Practical Nurses given
between 1952 and 1982/1983; or
d.
A state licensing examination for professional nurses given prior to
1951 or a state licensing examination for practical nurses given
prior to 1952.
e.
In the event that Applicant examination results are lost or destroyed
through circumstances beyond the control of the Board, the matter
will be addressed and resolved by the Board on a case by case
basis.
5.
Applicant must submit fingerprints for the purpose of obtaining criminal
history record information from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and
the Colorado Bureau of Investigation responsible for retaining the state’s
criminal records set forth in section 24-60-380(III)(c)(6), C.R.S.
E.
LICENSURE BY EXAMINATION
1.
A Graduate of a Colorado Approved Professional Nursing Education
Program is eligible to take the NCLEX examination for professional or
practical nursing, provided that:
a
information from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and
the Colorado Bureau of Investigation responsible for retaining the state’s
criminal records set forth in section 24-60-380(III)(c)(6), C.R.S.
E.
LICENSURE BY EXAMINATION
1.
A Graduate of a Colorado Approved Professional Nursing Education
Program is eligible to take the NCLEX examination for professional or
practical nursing, provided that:
a.
An official school transcript reflecting completion of institutional
requirements for the degree/diploma/certificate and the date of
completion is provided to the Board in a secure manner;
b.
All other requirements of state law and Rule 1.1 are met.
2.
A Graduate of a Colorado Approved Practical Nursing Education Program
is eligible to take the NCLEX examination for practical nursing, provided
that:
a.
An official school transcript reflecting completion of institutional
requirements for the degree/diploma/certificate and the date of
completion is provided to the Board in a secure manner;
b.
All other requirements of state law and Rule 1.1 are met.
3.
A Graduate of a nursing education program approved by a board of
nursing of another state or territory of the United States is eligible to take
the NCLEX examination for professional or practical nursing, provided
that:
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a.
The applicant graduated from a traditional nursing education
program that was accredited by an agency recognized by the
United States Department of Education and/or Council for Higher
Education Accreditation and approved by a board of nursing of a
state or territory of the United States;
b.
An official school transcript reflecting completion of institutional
requirements for the degree/diploma/certificate and the date of
completion is provided in a manner approved by the Board; and
c.
All other requirements of state law and Rule 1.1 are met.
4
ducation and/or Council for Higher
Education Accreditation and approved by a board of nursing of a
state or territory of the United States;
b.
An official school transcript reflecting completion of institutional
requirements for the degree/diploma/certificate and the date of
completion is provided in a manner approved by the Board; and
c.
All other requirements of state law and Rule 1.1 are met.
4.
A Graduate of a United States armed services traditional nursing
education program gained in military service as provided for in section 12-
20-202(4), C.R.S., that is determined to be substantially equivalent to the
criteria set forth in Sections (E)(1) through (E)(3) of Rule 1.1 is eligible to
take the NCLEX examination for professional or practical nursing provided
that:
a.
An official transcript reflecting completion of institutional
requirements for the degree/ diploma/certificate and the date of
completion is provided in a manner approved by the Board; or
satisfactory evidence of the education provided and assessed on a
case by case basis; and
b.
All other requirements of state law and Rule 1.1 are met.
5.
A Graduate of a Non-traditional Nursing Education Program may take the
NCLEX if the requirements as outlined in Section (I) of Rule 1.1 are met.
6.
A Graduate of a foreign nursing education program is eligible to take the
NCLEX examination only after:
a.
Board review of nursing education credentials as evaluated by a
Board-recognized educational credentialing agency; and
b.
Having met the standards set by the United States Department of
Education on the English competency exam.
7.
Applicants must provide official school transcripts in a manner approved
by the Board. Applicants of foreign nursing education programs must
provide official school transcripts to a Board-recognized educational
credentialing agency.
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met the standards set by the United States Department of
Education on the English competency exam.
7.
Applicants must provide official school transcripts in a manner approved
by the Board. Applicants of foreign nursing education programs must
provide official school transcripts to a Board-recognized educational
credentialing agency.
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8.
Notwithstanding the requirements of Section (I) of Rule 1.1, Graduates of
a Nontraditional Nursing Education Program that were enrolled in the
program on or before January 1, 2006, and with continuous enrollment are
deemed to be Graduates of an Approved Nursing Education Program and
are eligible to take the NCLEX pursuant to Section (E)(1) of Rule 1.1. If
the Graduate is unable to establish continuous enrollment, the Graduate
must comply with Section (I) of Rule 1.1.
9.
Applicants once approved may take the NCLEX a maximum of three times
within three years of the date the Applicant first took the NCLEX in any
state or territory of the United States, or foreign country. Any applicant
who wishes to take the NCLEX a fourth time must:
a.
Evaluate his/her deficiencies;
b.
Educate and prepare him/herself appropriately, such as, but not
limited to, completing appropriate coursework, NCLEX review, or a
didactic portion of a refresher course; and
c.
Submit, in writing, a petition for a waiver to take the NCLEX a fourth
time, documenting evidence of successful completion of Sections
(E)(9)(a) and (E)(9)(b) of Rule 1.1. The applicant may also include
any circumstances they wish the Board to consider. The decision to
grant or deny any such waiver is at the sole discretion of the Board.
It is anticipated that such waivers will be rare.
d.
All requirements of Section (E)(9) of Rule 1.1 must be completed
within two years of the date of the third NCLEX examination date. If
not completed, the application file will be purged.
e
icant may also include
any circumstances they wish the Board to consider. The decision to
grant or deny any such waiver is at the sole discretion of the Board.
It is anticipated that such waivers will be rare.
d.
All requirements of Section (E)(9) of Rule 1.1 must be completed
within two years of the date of the third NCLEX examination date. If
not completed, the application file will be purged.
e.
An applicant who has not met criteria as set forth in Sections
(E)(9)(a-d) of Rule 1.1, is not eligible for application by examination
in Colorado.
F.
LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT
1.
Pursuant to the Occupational Credential Portability Program under section
12-20-202(3), C.R.S., an applicant is entitled to licensure as a professional
or practical nurse by endorsement in Colorado if the applicant has met the
requirements of Sections (D)(1), (2) and (5) of Rule 1.1 is currently
licensed in good standing in another state or U.S. territory, or through the
federal government, or holds a military occupational specialty, as defined
in section 24-4-201, C.R.S., and has submitted satisfactory proof under
penalty of perjury that:
a.
The applicant:
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(1)
Has substantially equivalent experience or credentials that
are required by Article 255 of Title 12, C.R.S.; or
(2)
Has held for at least one year a current and valid license as
a professional or practical nurse in a jurisdiction with a scope
of practice that is substantially similar to the scope of
practice for professional and practical nurses specified in
Article 255 of Title 12, C.R.S.
2.
The Board may deny such license if:
a.
The Board demonstrates by a preponderance of evidence, after
notice and opportunity for a hearing, that the applicant:
(1)
Lacks the requisite substantially equivalent education,
experience, or credentials for a license; or
t is substantially similar to the scope of
practice for professional and practical nurses specified in
Article 255 of Title 12, C.R.S.
2.
The Board may deny such license if:
a.
The Board demonstrates by a preponderance of evidence, after
notice and opportunity for a hearing, that the applicant:
(1)
Lacks the requisite substantially equivalent education,
experience, or credentials for a license; or
(2)
Has committed an act that would be grounds for disciplinary
action under Article 255 of Title 12, C.R.S.
3.
An applicant who is not currently licensed in good standing in another
state or U.S. territory or through the federal government is eligible for
licensure as a professional or practical nurse by endorsement in Colorado
if the applicant has met the requirements of Section (D) of Rule 1.1 (D)
and:
a.
Has been previously licensed in another state or territory of the
United States or through the federal government, graduated from
an Approved Nursing Education Program or a recognized military
education program approved by a board of nursing of a state or
territory of the United States, passed the NCLEX exam, and has
demonstrated competency as defined in section 12-20-202(3),
C.R.S.; or
b.
Has been previously licensed as a professional nurse in another
state or territory of the United States or through the federal
government, graduated from a Nontraditional Nursing Education
Program, and has worked a minimum of 2,000 hours as a
professional nurse and has provided evidence of demonstrated
continued competency requirements as defined in section 12-20-
202(3), C.R.S.; or
c.
Has an encumbered license in another state or territory of the
United States or through the federal government, only after review
and approval by the Board.
G.
REINSTATEMENT AND REACTIVATION
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rofessional nurse and has provided evidence of demonstrated
continued competency requirements as defined in section 12-20-
202(3), C.R.S.; or
c.
Has an encumbered license in another state or territory of the
United States or through the federal government, only after review
and approval by the Board.
G.
REINSTATEMENT AND REACTIVATION
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1.
A licensee who does not renew his or her license within the sixty day
grace period, as set forth in section 12-20-202(1)(e), C.R.S., will have an
expired license and is ineligible to practice until such license is reinstated.
2.
A licensee may elect inactive status in accordance with section 12-255-
122, C.R.S. A licensee may not apply for inactive status to avoid
disciplinary action. Upon inactivation, any and all authorities attached to
that license will be cancelled.
3.
The licensee must apply for reinstatement or reactivation in a manner
approved by the Board.
4.
The licensee applying for reinstatement or reactivation must pay an
application fee.
5.
A licensee who has practiced on an expired or inactive license may be
subject to disciplinary action.
6.
A licensee whose license has been expired or inactive less than two years
must comply with requirements of Sections (G)(3) and (G)(4) of Rule 1.1.
7.
An individual whose professional or practical nursing license has been
inactive or expired for two or more but less than five years must
demonstrate competency. The Program Director or designee may accept
proof of competency through 20 contact hours of continuing education for
each two years without an active license. Hours of clinical experience for
clinical competency may also be considered.
8.
An individual whose professional or practical nursing license has been
expired or inactive for five or more years must demonstrate competency
nstrate competency. The Program Director or designee may accept
proof of competency through 20 contact hours of continuing education for
each two years without an active license. Hours of clinical experience for
clinical competency may also be considered.
8.
An individual whose professional or practical nursing license has been
expired or inactive for five or more years must demonstrate competency.
The Program Director or designee may accept proof of competency
through successful completion of remedial or refresher courses under a
restricted license as defined in (a) and (b), below. “Successful completion”
means achieving a grade of “C” or better or the equivalent in each course.
The Program Director or designee may refer any case to an Inquiry Panel
for review.
a.
The remedial or refresher courses must have medical/surgical
focus, must clearly differentiate knowledge and skill level for RNs
and LPNs, and have the following minimum content:
(1)
Physical assessment, history taking, documentation, and
health information technologies;
(2)
Pharmacology, medication administration, and IV therapy;
(3)
Nursing knowledge and skills update, based on best
evidence;
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(4)
Legal, ethical, and professional issues;
(5)
Manage patient conditions effectively in order to minimize
sentinel events;
(6)
Rapid response to critical incidents;
(7)
Prioritize cares when caring for multiple patients; and
dication administration, and IV therapy;
(3)
Nursing knowledge and skills update, based on best
evidence;
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(4)
Legal, ethical, and professional issues;
(5)
Manage patient conditions effectively in order to minimize
sentinel events;
(6)
Rapid response to critical incidents;
(7)
Prioritize cares when caring for multiple patients; and
(8)
Critical reasoning for clinical decision making.
b.
The number of successfully completed contact hours required of
each individual to demonstrate competency prior to reinstatement,
reactivation, or endorsement will be determined by the number of
years that his or her license has been inactive or expired, as
follows:
5-10 years
Contact Hours:
120 Theory (including lab)
and 120 Clinical (one-
hundred percent may be
conducted in a simulation
environment)
more than 10 years
Contact Hours:
120 Theory (including lab)
and 120 Clinical (seventy-
five percent may be
conducted in a simulation
environment); and possible
additional hours as
determined by the Board on
a case-by-case basis.
9.
Upon a petition by the licensee, and with due consideration of the need to
protect the public, the Board may accept an alternative method for
establishing competency, to include hours worked under a temporary
emergency license. The decision to accept an alternative method for
establishing competency is at the sole discretion of the Board.
10.
An Applicant for reinstatement or reactivation of advanced practice
authorities must provide proof that the licensee has maintained national
certification in each Role/Specialty and Population Focus or meets the
current requirements in accordance with Rule 1.14, or meets current
requirements for prescriptive authority in accordance with Rule 1.15.
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or reinstatement or reactivation of advanced practice
authorities must provide proof that the licensee has maintained national
certification in each Role/Specialty and Population Focus or meets the
current requirements in accordance with Rule 1.14, or meets current
requirements for prescriptive authority in accordance with Rule 1.15.
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11.
An Applicant for reinstatement or reactivation of practical nurse IV
authority must meet the current requirements for practical nurse IV
authority in accordance with Rule 1.9.
H.
SPECIAL PERMITS
1.
Permits may be granted, in the Board's discretion, to individuals
possessing active and unencumbered licenses to practice professional or
practical nursing in other states or territories of the United States, to allow
for occasional nursing practice which is patient- or procedure-specific for
educational purposes and/or clinical practice of professional development.
However, if such nurse has any established or regularly used healthcare
agency connections in this state for the provision of such services, the
nurse must possess a license to practice nursing in Colorado, except as
otherwise provided in these Rules.
2.
All individuals seeking a permit must apply in a manner approved by the
Board.
3.
A permit may be denied if the Applicant has committed any of the acts that
would be grounds for discipline under section 12-255-120, C.R.S.
I.
STUDENT PERMITS
1.
Student permits are intended for students in Nontraditional Nursing
Education Programs who must obtain in-state clinical training and
experience.
2.
Eligibility.
a.
An individual who is a Graduate of a Nontraditional Nursing
Education Program is eligible for a student permit if:
(1)
The program is physically located in another state or territory
of the United States; and
R.S.
I.
STUDENT PERMITS
1.
Student permits are intended for students in Nontraditional Nursing
Education Programs who must obtain in-state clinical training and
experience.
2.
Eligibility.
a.
An individual who is a Graduate of a Nontraditional Nursing
Education Program is eligible for a student permit if:
(1)
The program is physically located in another state or territory
of the United States; and
(2)
The program is accredited by the United States Department
of Education and is approved by a board of nursing of a
state or territory of the United States.
b.
A student permit is not required for persons actively enrolled in an
Approved Nursing Education Program in Colorado and who
participate in clinical training as defined in Section (C)(5) of Rule
1.2 for Approval of Nursing Education Programs.
3.
Nontraditional Nursing Education Program Graduate Requirements to take
the NCLEX Examination.
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a.
The Applicant is able to demonstrate satisfactory completion of 750
hours of supervised clinical experience in the role of a professional
nurse; or
b.
The Applicant has an active license to practice as a practical nurse
in any state and is able to demonstrate satisfactory completion of
350 hours of supervised clinical experience in the role of a
professional nurse.
c.
The required elements for satisfactory completion of the supervised
clinical experience are as follows:
(1)
Acceptable clinical sites that take place in acute care or
subacute care settings, skilled nursing facilities, or other
sites as approved by the Board.
(2)
Clinical Supervision may be provided either in a traditional
format with one instructor directly overseeing a group of
students or as a preceptorship experience where a direct
ongoing 1:1 relationship is established.
erience are as follows:
(1)
Acceptable clinical sites that take place in acute care or
subacute care settings, skilled nursing facilities, or other
sites as approved by the Board.
(2)
Clinical Supervision may be provided either in a traditional
format with one instructor directly overseeing a group of
students or as a preceptorship experience where a direct
ongoing 1:1 relationship is established.
(3)
Qualified instructor/preceptor is educated at or above the
level of the Applicant with at least two years of experience in
a practice setting and has an active, unencumbered license
to practice as a professional registered nurse in Colorado.
The Applicant must provide documentation that the
instructor/preceptor meets these requirements when he/she
applies for a permit and must also provide a written
agreement between the Applicant, the preceptor, the faculty,
and the facility where the Clinical Supervision will occur.
(4)
Required components of the supervised clinical experience
include:
(a)
Clinical decision making and critical thinking;
(b)
Patient assessment as part of the nursing process;
(c)
Interdisciplinary collaboration and evaluation of care
evidenced in caring for multiple patients with both
predictable and unpredictable outcomes across the
variety of learning options appropriate for
contemporary nursing; and
(d)
Nursing delegation and supervision.
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king;
(b)
Patient assessment as part of the nursing process;
(c)
Interdisciplinary collaboration and evaluation of care
evidenced in caring for multiple patients with both
predictable and unpredictable outcomes across the
variety of learning options appropriate for
contemporary nursing; and
(d)
Nursing delegation and supervision.
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(e)
A signed, original checklist and instructor/preceptor
agreement, provided by the Board, must be
completed by the primary instructor/preceptor,
documenting the Applicant’s satisfactory completion
of the required components in a manner approved by
the Board.
4.
Limitations of student permits.
a.
Individuals practicing under a student permit are subject to the
Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act.
b.
Student permit holders may not supervise Licensees or other
permit holders.
c.
Individuals practicing under a student permit are responsible for
arranging and obtaining their own clinical hours.
d.
Individuals practicing under a student permit may not exceed the
terms of the permit.
e.
A student permit may be issued for a period of twelve consecutive
months.
J.
CHANGE OF NAME AND ADDRESS
1.
The licensee must supply to the Board legal evidence of a name change
within thirty days of the effective date of the name change.
2.
The licensee must notify the Board within thirty days of any change of
address. This notification may be submitted in writing or through the
Board's on-line system.
3.
Any notification by the Board to licensees required or permitted under the
Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act, sections 12-255-101 to 134, C.R.S.,
or the State Administrative Procedure Act, sections 24-4-101 to 108,
C.R.S., will be addressed to the last address provided in writing to the
Board by the Licensee and any such mailing will be deemed proper
service on said licensee.
K.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS
1.
Any application not completed within one year of the date of receipt of the
original application expires and will be purged.
L
4, C.R.S.,
or the State Administrative Procedure Act, sections 24-4-101 to 108,
C.R.S., will be addressed to the last address provided in writing to the
Board by the Licensee and any such mailing will be deemed proper
service on said licensee.
K.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS
1.
Any application not completed within one year of the date of receipt of the
original application expires and will be purged.
L.
VOLUNTEER NURSE LICENSURE
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1.
Applicants for Volunteer Licensure must meet all requirements of section
12-255-115, C.R.S.
a.
An applicant who at the time the application is received holds an
emergency active license shall be deemed to satisfy the
requirement of holding an active license pursuant to section 12-
255-115, C.R.S.
2.
A licensee on volunteer status in accordance with section 12-255-115,
C.R.S., may apply to reinstate to active status. The reinstatement
application must be submitted as described in Section (G) of Rule 1.1 and
the applicant must demonstrate competency by one of the following:
a.
Proof they have actively volunteered as a nurse during the two year
period immediately preceding application.
b.
Proof they meet the Board’s requirements for demonstrated
competency as defined in section 12-20-202(2), C.R.S. Experience
under an emergency active license may be considered as evidence
of competency.
M.
LICENSURE AS MILITARY SPOUSE
1.
The spouse of a person who is actively serving the in the United States
Armed forces and who is stationed in Colorado in accordance with military
orders shall be entitled to a temporary license as set forth in section 12-
20-202, C.R.S.
Adopted: October 21, 2009
Revised: April 26, 2012
Effective: July 1, 2012
Revised: October 24, 2012
Effective: December 15, 2012
Revised: January 22, 2013
Effective: March 18, 2013
Revised: January 23, 2019
Effective: March 17, 2019
Revised: October 27, 2021
Effective: December 30, 2021
1.2
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF NURSING EDUCATION
PROGRAMS
A
s set forth in section 12-
20-202, C.R.S.
Adopted: October 21, 2009
Revised: April 26, 2012
Effective: July 1, 2012
Revised: October 24, 2012
Effective: December 15, 2012
Revised: January 22, 2013
Effective: March 18, 2013
Revised: January 23, 2019
Effective: March 17, 2019
Revised: October 27, 2021
Effective: December 30, 2021
1.2
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF NURSING EDUCATION
PROGRAMS
A.
STATEMENT OF BASIS: The authority for the promulgation of these rules and
regulations by the State Board of Nursing (“Board”) is set forth in sections 12-
255-107(1)(a), (j), and 12-255-118, C.R.S.
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13
B.
PURPOSE: To specify procedures and criteria relating to the requirements for,
approval of and withdrawal of approval of Nursing Education Programs.
C.
DEFINITIONS
1.
Advisory Committee: A committee formed by the Nursing Education
Program during Phase II of the Approval Process to represent the
interests of students, the Governing Body, potential nursing employers
and other community members affected by the Nursing Education
Program.
2.
Approval: Official recognition granted by the Board to Nursing Education
Programs that meet certain established standards and requirements under
the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act and the Board’s Rules and
Regulations, as follows:
a.
Interim Approval: Recognition by the Board during the Approval
Process that a Nursing Education Program may admit students and
implement the program, pending Full Approval.
b.
Full Approval: Recognition by the Board that a Nursing Education
Program has completed the Approval Process and meets the
standards and requirements under the Nurse and Nurse Aide
Practice Act and the Board’s Rules and Regulations. A Nursing
Education Program with Full Approval is the equivalent of an
“approved education program” pursuant to section 12-255-104(2),
C.R.S.
c
ending Full Approval.
b.
Full Approval: Recognition by the Board that a Nursing Education
Program has completed the Approval Process and meets the
standards and requirements under the Nurse and Nurse Aide
Practice Act and the Board’s Rules and Regulations. A Nursing
Education Program with Full Approval is the equivalent of an
“approved education program” pursuant to section 12-255-104(2),
C.R.S.
c.
Conditional Approval: Approval granted with conditions or
provisions to a Nursing Education Program that was previously
granted Full Approval, but does not currently meet all standards
and requirements for Full Approval.
3.
Approval Process: Board process consisting of four specified phases of
development of a Nursing Education Program as set forth in Rule 1.2.
4.
A Student Admission: A Nursing Education Program has determined the
applicant to the Nursing Education Program to be qualified, sent an
affirmative admission letter to the applicant, the education program has
received an affirmative indication from the applicant that the admission
offer is accepted, and the applicant is enrolled by the Census Date. A
Nursing Education Program’s student admissions is the total number of all
applicants enrolled in the Nursing Education Program by the Census Date
as determined by the school for an academic year (August 1 to July 31 of
the next year).
5.
Board: The State Board of Nursing.
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State Board of Nursing
accepted, and the applicant is enrolled by the Census Date. A
Nursing Education Program’s student admissions is the total number of all
applicants enrolled in the Nursing Education Program by the Census Date
as determined by the school for an academic year (August 1 to July 31 of
the next year).
5.
Board: The State Board of Nursing.
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14
6.
Census Date: The date determined by the school’s Governing Body after
which students’ enrollment status changes are final.
7.
Clinical Experience: Faculty planned, guided, and supervised learning
activities designed to assist students to meet the course objectives in a
clinical setting. Clinical Experience is obtained Concurrently with theory
and applies nursing knowledge and skills in the direct care of patients or
clients. This experience requires direct supervision by Faculty, Associate
Nursing Instructional Personnel (ANIP) or a Preceptor who is physically
present or immediately accessible and must be completed prior to
graduation.
8.
Clinical Laboratory: Laboratory setting for practice of specific basic clinical
skills.
9.
Clinical Setting: The place where Faculty and students, via a written
agreement, have access to patients/clients for the purpose of providing
nursing practice experience for students. Students and Clinical Faculty do
not assume full responsibility for patient care.
10.
Clinical Simulation: A care setting utilizing human simulation experience to
create realistic, life-like scenarios where students engage in the practice of
nursing skills and theory for the purpose of teaching and evaluating
students. All simulation experiences shall be under the direction of
licensed nursing Faculty qualified to oversee and evaluate the outcomes
of the simulation experience for the student. The Faculty qualifications
shall be documented in a manner approved by the Board.
11.
Concurrent(ly): Simultaneous or immediately following and completed
within six months of the relevant theory content.
12
uating
students. All simulation experiences shall be under the direction of
licensed nursing Faculty qualified to oversee and evaluate the outcomes
of the simulation experience for the student. The Faculty qualifications
shall be documented in a manner approved by the Board.
11.
Concurrent(ly): Simultaneous or immediately following and completed
within six months of the relevant theory content.
12.
Curriculum: All courses required for completion of an Approved Nursing
Education Program.
13.
Director of Nursing Education Program (DNEP): A registered nurse
licensed in Colorado employed by a Nursing Education Program and
granted the necessary authority by the program's Governing Body to
administer the Nursing Education Program.
14.
Faculty: Individuals meeting the requirements of the Board’s Rules and
Regulations, designated by the Governing Body as having ongoing
responsibility for curriculum development and planning, teaching, guiding,
monitoring, and evaluating student learning. Faculty also includes the
following:
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a.
Clinical Faculty: Individuals meeting the requirements of the
Board’s Rules and Regulations and having ongoing responsibility
for evaluating student learning in the practice setting. The Clinical
Faculty assumes joint responsibility with the teaching Faculty in
guiding student learning. The ratio of faculty to student shall not be
more than 1:10.
b.
Associate Nursing Instructional Personnel (ANIP): Licensed nurses
working under the direction and supervision of nursing Faculty, who
assist students in laboratory and/or clinical settings and
environments to meet specific nursing goals. The ANIP to student
ratio shall not be more than 1:10.
c.
Preceptor: The Preceptor is a professional or practical nurse who
assumes joint teaching responsibility with a Faculty member and
should have a minimum of one year of clinical experience relevant
to the area(s) of responsibility
ulty, who
assist students in laboratory and/or clinical settings and
environments to meet specific nursing goals. The ANIP to student
ratio shall not be more than 1:10.
c.
Preceptor: The Preceptor is a professional or practical nurse who
assumes joint teaching responsibility with a Faculty member and
should have a minimum of one year of clinical experience relevant
to the area(s) of responsibility. A licensed professional nurse may
precept a professional or practical nursing student. A licensed
practical nurse may precept a practical nursing student. It is
expected that the licensed nurse should be at or above the degree
level of the Nursing Education Program.
15.
Final Clinical Precepted Experience: Faculty planned, guided, and
Preceptor-supervised learning activities occurring at the end of the
Nursing Education Program after a student has received the theory and
Clinical Experience that is necessary to provide safe care.
16.
Governing Body: The institution or organization that offers a Nursing
Education Program.
17.
Nursing Education Program: A basic course of study preparing persons for
initial licensure as registered or practical nurses. Some Nursing Education
Programs may offer more than one type of nursing certification or degree
under the same Governing Body.
18.
Site Visit: The Board’s or Board’s staff’s collection and analysis of
information to assess compliance with the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice
Act and the Board’s Rules and Regulations. Information may be collected
by several methods, including, but not limited to: review of written reports
and materials, on-site observations, interviews, or conferences; which are
summarized in a written report to the Board.
19.
Unencumbered: No current restriction on a license to practice on any
professional or practical nursing license.
D.
PURPOSES OF NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM APPROVAL
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State Board of Nursing
ng, but not limited to: review of written reports
and materials, on-site observations, interviews, or conferences; which are
summarized in a written report to the Board.
19.
Unencumbered: No current restriction on a license to practice on any
professional or practical nursing license.
D.
PURPOSES OF NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM APPROVAL
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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16
1.
To promote and regulate educational processes that prepare graduates
for safe and effective nursing practice.
2.
To provide eligibility for admission to the licensing examination for nurses.
3.
To provide criteria for the development and Approval of new and
established Nursing Education Programs.
4.
To provide procedures for the withdrawal of Nursing Education Program
Approval.
5.
To facilitate interstate endorsement of graduates of Board-approved
programs.
E.
REQUIREMENTS FOR NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAMS
1.
All Nursing Education Programs must be located in or otherwise
accredited as a post-secondary educational institution with state approval
to grant the appropriate degree or certificate.
2.
A Nursing Education Program applying to grant a baccalaureate degree or
an associate degree in nursing must be located in an institution accredited
by a regional accrediting agency or a national institutional accrediting
agency at the time of application. The accreditation must be recognized by
the United States Department of Education and the program must be
eligible for national nursing accreditation.
3.
A Nursing Education Program applying to grant a certificate in practical
nursing must be located in an institution accredited by a regional
accrediting agency or a national institutional accrediting agency. The
regional accreditation or national institutional accreditation must be
recognized by the United States Department of Education.
4
ram must be
eligible for national nursing accreditation.
3.
A Nursing Education Program applying to grant a certificate in practical
nursing must be located in an institution accredited by a regional
accrediting agency or a national institutional accrediting agency. The
regional accreditation or national institutional accreditation must be
recognized by the United States Department of Education.
4.
Any Nursing Education Program that does not have National Nursing
Accreditation must prominently disclose to students in all publications
describing the nursing program that the lack of national nursing
accreditation may limit future educational and career options for the
students. The disclosure must precede any statement with plans to apply
for programmatic accreditation.
5.
All Nursing Education Programs that have received Full Approval by
January 1, 2006, must be accredited by a national nursing accrediting
body recognized by the United States Department of Education by
January 1, 2010, or must have achieved candidacy status leading to such
accreditation and demonstrated satisfactory progression toward obtaining
such accreditation. Those Nursing Education Programs that receive Full
Approval after January 1, 2006, must provide evidence of national nursing
accreditation within four years of receiving Full Approval by the Board.
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6.
The organization, administration and implementation of the Nursing
Education Program must be consistent and compliant with the Nurse and
Nurse Aide Practice Act, the Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other
state or federal regulations. A Nursing Education Program’s organization
and administration must secure, maintain, and be able to document the
existence of:
a
State Board of Nursing
17
6.
The organization, administration and implementation of the Nursing
Education Program must be consistent and compliant with the Nurse and
Nurse Aide Practice Act, the Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other
state or federal regulations. A Nursing Education Program’s organization
and administration must secure, maintain, and be able to document the
existence of:
a.
A Governing Body, with post-secondary accreditation from an
accrediting body approved by the United States Department of
Education, that has the legal authority to conduct the Nursing
Education Program, determine general policy, and assure adequate
financial support.
b.
Financial support and resources sufficient to meet the goals of the
Nursing Education Program. Resources include, but are not limited
to, financial, educational facilities, equipment, learning aids, and
qualified administrative, instructional and support personnel.
c.
An organizational chart for the Nursing Education Program
demonstrating the relationship of the program to the Governing
Body administration and clearly delineating the lines of authority,
responsibility, channels of communication and internal organization.
d.
A DNEP appointed and accountable for the administration,
planning, implementation and evaluation of the Nursing Education
Program, and granted institutional authority to meet the
requirements of the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act, the Board’s
Rules and Regulations, and all other state or federal regulations.
The qualifications and responsibilities of the DNEP shall be defined
in writing by the Governing Body and submitted to the Board.
e.
A formal plan for orientation of the DNEP and Faculty, which
includes but is not limited to a Faculty handbook and other policies
necessary for the effective communication of the Nursing Education
Program curriculum.
f
ons, and all other state or federal regulations.
The qualifications and responsibilities of the DNEP shall be defined
in writing by the Governing Body and submitted to the Board.
e.
A formal plan for orientation of the DNEP and Faculty, which
includes but is not limited to a Faculty handbook and other policies
necessary for the effective communication of the Nursing Education
Program curriculum.
f.
Statements of mission, purpose, and outcome competencies for
Board Approval, established and periodically reviewed by the
Nursing Education Program in conjunction with the Governing
Body.
g.
Standards for recruitment, advertising, and refunding tuition and
fees, which must be consistent with generally accepted standards
and applied by the Governing Body.
h.
Teaching and learning environment conducive to student academic
achievement.
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i.
Student policies that are accurate, accessible to the public, non-
discriminatory and consistently applied.
j.
Current, accurate, clear and consistent information about the
Nursing Education Program available to the general public,
prospective students, current students, employers and other
interested parties.
k.
Student access to support services administered by qualified
individuals, including, but not limited to: access to health care,
counseling and intervention for disabilities, academic achievement
strategies, career placement and financial aid.
l.
Records of all written complaints about the Nursing Education
Program and how the program addressed each complaint, which
must be available for public and Board review.
7.
Faculty composition of the Nursing Education Program must be as follows:
a.
The number of Faculty shall be sufficient to prepare the students to
achieve the objectives of the Nursing Education Program and to
ensure patient/client safety.
b.
There must be a minimum of two full-time Faculty for a Nursing
Education Program, one of whom may be the DNEP.
c
t be available for public and Board review.
7.
Faculty composition of the Nursing Education Program must be as follows:
a.
The number of Faculty shall be sufficient to prepare the students to
achieve the objectives of the Nursing Education Program and to
ensure patient/client safety.
b.
There must be a minimum of two full-time Faculty for a Nursing
Education Program, one of whom may be the DNEP.
c.
There must be a sufficient number of Faculty for each specialty
area to provide adequate supervision to Clinical Faculty, ANIP and
Preceptors.
d.
For professional Nursing Education Programs granting a
baccalaureate degree in nursing, all Faculty, excluding ANIP and
Preceptors, must have a graduate degree in nursing and twenty-
five percent of the full-time faculty should have a doctorate degree.
e.
For professional Nursing Education Programs granting an
associate degree in nursing all full-time Faculty, excluding ANIP
and Preceptors, must have a graduate degree in nursing and equal
to or greater than fifty percent (>50%) of part-time Faculty,
excluding ANIP and Preceptors, must have a graduate degree in
nursing.
f.
For Nursing Education Programs granting a certificate in practical
nursing, all Faculty, excluding ANIP and Preceptors must have a
Bachelor’s degree in nursing and equal to or greater than fifty
percent of the Faculty, excluding ANIP and Preceptors, must have
a graduate degree in nursing.
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s, must have a graduate degree in
nursing.
f.
For Nursing Education Programs granting a certificate in practical
nursing, all Faculty, excluding ANIP and Preceptors must have a
Bachelor’s degree in nursing and equal to or greater than fifty
percent of the Faculty, excluding ANIP and Preceptors, must have
a graduate degree in nursing.
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19
g.
DNEP and Faculty hired into a Board approved Nursing Education
Program after June 30, 2014, must meet the respective
qualifications as specified in Rule 1.2, and the graduate degree in
nursing and/or bachelor’s degree in nursing must be from a Nursing
Education Program with national nursing accreditation.
8.
DNEPs must possess the following qualifications:
a.
An active Unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse
in Colorado.
b.
Documented knowledge and skills related to teaching adults,
teaching methodology, curriculum development, and curriculum
evaluation.
c.
Two years of full-time, or equivalent, clinical experience as a
practicing registered nurse.
d.
Two years of full-time, or equivalent, experience in teaching in an
approved Nursing Education Program. Such experience must be at
or above the level of the Nursing Education Program the individual
will be directing.
e.
To direct a practical Nursing Education Program, a minimum of a
graduate degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program with
national nursing accreditation.
f.
To direct a professional Nursing Education Program, a minimum of
a graduate degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program
with national nursing accreditation.
9.
DNEP responsibilities shall include:
a.
Insuring and documenting the Nursing Education Program’s
compliance with the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act, the
Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other state or federal
regulations.
b.
Providing a current written job description to the Board for all
Faculty positions.
c
nursing from a Nursing Education Program
with national nursing accreditation.
9.
DNEP responsibilities shall include:
a.
Insuring and documenting the Nursing Education Program’s
compliance with the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act, the
Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other state or federal
regulations.
b.
Providing a current written job description to the Board for all
Faculty positions.
c.
Developing and maintaining the relationship between the Nursing
Education Program and the Governing Body, including but not
limited to acting as liaison with other programs within the Governing
Body and with other Nursing Education Programs.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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State Board of Nursing
20
d.
Demonstrating leadership within the Faculty for the development,
implementation and evaluation of the curriculum and other Nursing
Education Program components.
e.
Participating in the budget planning process for and administering
the Nursing Education Program budget.
f.
Recruiting and selecting Faculty for employment, designing and
monitoring development plans for Faculty, conducting performance
reviews of Faculty, and participating in Faculty promotion and
retention.
g.
Developing and coordinating the use of educational facilities and
clinical resources.
h.
Identifying and advocating for services needed by students in the
Nursing Education Program.
i.
Acting as liaison with the Board.
j.
Developing and maintaining ongoing relationships within the
community, including fostering the Nursing Education Program's
responsiveness to community/employer needs.
k.
Participating in activities that facilitate the DNEP's professional
expertise in the areas of administration, teaching and maintenance
of nursing competence.
l.
Determining the need for additional Faculty release time for
administrative duties.
m.
The Board recognizes that the foregoing responsibilities may be
delegated to other persons. However, the DNEP is responsible to
the Board for assuring compliance with these requirements.
10
litate the DNEP's professional
expertise in the areas of administration, teaching and maintenance
of nursing competence.
l.
Determining the need for additional Faculty release time for
administrative duties.
m.
The Board recognizes that the foregoing responsibilities may be
delegated to other persons. However, the DNEP is responsible to
the Board for assuring compliance with these requirements.
10.
The amount of time that the DNEP is released from teaching
responsibilities for nursing administrative duties must be adequate to meet
the needs of the Nursing Education Program and students. The minimum
amount of release time allowed for administrative responsibilities shall be:
a.
Sixty percent in a Nursing Education Program with sixty or fewer
nursing students.
b.
One percent per nursing student in a Nursing Education Program
with more than sixty nursing students.
c.
Other related duties may necessitate additional release time.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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21
d.
DNEP administering education programs outside of those covered
by Rule 1.2 or with greater than 100% release time based on
enrollments must calculate percent of release time to be delegated
to qualified nurse faculty based on the institution’s calculation of full
time workload.
11.
Nursing Faculty must possess the following qualifications:
a.
An active Unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse
in Colorado.
b.
Two years of full-time, or equivalent, professional nursing clinical
experience.
c.
Faculty in a practical Nursing Education Program must have a
minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a Nursing
Education Program with national nursing accreditation or a written
plan demonstrating ongoing progression in obtaining a bachelor’s
degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program with national
nursing accreditation.
d
or equivalent, professional nursing clinical
experience.
c.
Faculty in a practical Nursing Education Program must have a
minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a Nursing
Education Program with national nursing accreditation or a written
plan demonstrating ongoing progression in obtaining a bachelor’s
degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program with national
nursing accreditation.
d.
Faculty in a professional Nursing Education Program must have a
minimum of a graduate degree in nursing from a Nursing Education
Program with national nursing accreditation, or demonstrate
compliance with the following:
(1)
If the individual has a graduate degree in a field other than
nursing, he or she must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing
from a Nursing Education Program with national nursing
accreditation and demonstrate evidence that the graduate
degree is in a field relevant to the area of responsibility.
(2)
If the individual has only a bachelor’s degree in nursing, he
or she must submit to the Board a written plan
demonstrating ongoing progression in obtaining a graduate
degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program with
national nursing accreditation.
12.
Responsibilities of nursing Faculty will include but not be limited to:
a.
Developing, implementing, evaluating and updating the purpose,
mission, and objectives of the Nursing Education Program.
b.
Designing, implementing and evaluating the curriculum using a
written plan.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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g Education Program with
national nursing accreditation.
12.
Responsibilities of nursing Faculty will include but not be limited to:
a.
Developing, implementing, evaluating and updating the purpose,
mission, and objectives of the Nursing Education Program.
b.
Designing, implementing and evaluating the curriculum using a
written plan.
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22
c.
Developing, evaluating and revising student admission,
progression, retention and graduation policies within the policies of
the Governing Body.
d.
Participating in academic advising and guidance of students.
e.
Planning and providing theoretical instruction and clinical or
laboratory experiences that reflect an understanding of the mission,
objectives and curriculum of the Nursing Education Program.
f.
Planning, monitoring and evaluating the instruction provided by
ANIP, Clinical Faculty and Preceptors.
g.
Evaluating student achievement of curricular objectives/outcomes
related to nursing knowledge and practice.
h.
Faculty assignments shall allow adequate administrative time for
theory, laboratory and clinical preparation.
13.
Clinical Faculty must possess the following qualifications:
a.
An active Unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse
in Colorado.
b.
Documented one year experience in the area of instruction.
c.
Clinical Faculty in a practical Nursing Education Program must
have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a Nursing
Education Program with national nursing accreditation or a written
plan demonstrating ongoing progression in obtaining a bachelor’s
degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program with national
nursing accreditation.
d.
Clinical Faculty in a professional Nursing Education Program must
have a minimum of a graduate degree in nursing from a Nursing
Education Program with national nursing accreditation, or
demonstrate compliance with the following:
on or a written
plan demonstrating ongoing progression in obtaining a bachelor’s
degree in nursing from a Nursing Education Program with national
nursing accreditation.
d.
Clinical Faculty in a professional Nursing Education Program must
have a minimum of a graduate degree in nursing from a Nursing
Education Program with national nursing accreditation, or
demonstrate compliance with the following:
(1)
If the individual has a graduate degree in a field other than
nursing, he or she must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing
from a Nursing Education Program with national nursing
accreditation and demonstrate evidence that the graduate
degree is in a field relevant to the area(s) of responsibility.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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23
(2)
If the individual has only a bachelor’s degree in nursing from
a Nursing Education Program with national nursing
accreditation, he or she must submit to the Board a written
plan demonstrating ongoing progression in obtaining a
graduate degree in nursing from a Nursing Education
Program with national nursing accreditation.
14.
Associate Nursing Instructional Personnel (ANIP) must possess the
following qualifications:
a.
For ANIP in a Clinical Simulation or other simulated patient care
environment and accountable for meeting assistive instructional
responsibilities under the supervision of nursing Faculty:
(1)
In a practical Nursing Education Program, an active
Unencumbered license to practice as a practical or
registered nurse in Colorado.
(2)
In a professional Nursing Education Program, an active
Unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse in
Colorado.
(3)
A minimum of one year of clinical experience relevant to the
area(s) of responsibility.
b.
For ANIP in an actual patient/client environment and accountable
for assistive instructional responsibilities under the supervision of
nursing Faculty:
(1)
An active Unencumbered license to practice as a registered
nurse in Colorado.
ive
Unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse in
Colorado.
(3)
A minimum of one year of clinical experience relevant to the
area(s) of responsibility.
b.
For ANIP in an actual patient/client environment and accountable
for assistive instructional responsibilities under the supervision of
nursing Faculty:
(1)
An active Unencumbered license to practice as a registered
nurse in Colorado.
(2)
Must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nursing from
a Nursing Education Program with national nursing
accreditation.
(3)
A minimum of two years of full-time, or equivalent,
professional nursing practice.
(4)
A minimum of one year of clinical experience relevant to the
area(s) of responsibility.
15.
Curriculum for a Nursing Education Program must include the following
components:
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24
a.
The curriculum for the Nursing Education Program shall enable the
student to develop the nursing knowledge, skills and competencies
necessary for the level of nursing practice of the Nursing Education
Program. For professional and practical Nursing Education
Programs, this includes skills in intravenous therapy, and theory
and clinical experience in the four recognized specialty areas of
pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric, and medical-surgical nursing.
b.
Theory and Concurrent Clinical Experience shall provide the
students the opportunity to acquire and demonstrate the
knowledge, skills and competencies for safe and effective nursing
practice.
c.
The curriculum must:
(1)
Reflect consistency between the mission, outcomes,
curriculum design, course progression, and learning
outcomes of the Nursing Education Program.
(2)
Be organized and sequenced logically to facilitate learning.
(3)
Facilitate seamless academic progression between in-state
Nursing Education Programs.
(4)
Provide Clinical Experience and Clinical Simulation to
prepare the student for the safe practice of nursing. This
experience must be Concurrent with theory and include:
rse progression, and learning
outcomes of the Nursing Education Program.
(2)
Be organized and sequenced logically to facilitate learning.
(3)
Facilitate seamless academic progression between in-state
Nursing Education Programs.
(4)
Provide Clinical Experience and Clinical Simulation to
prepare the student for the safe practice of nursing. This
experience must be Concurrent with theory and include:
(a)
For practical Nursing Education Programs, a
minimum of 400 clinical hours.
(b)
For professional Nursing Education Programs, a
minimum of 750 clinical hours.
(c)
For Nursing Education Programs that have national
nursing accreditation, each clinical course may be
formulated to include a combination of Clinical
Experience, and Clinical Simulation components and
the syllabus will identify the number of hours for each
component. The Clinical Simulation component shall
not exceed fifty-percent of clinical clock hours for
each clinical course in the four recognized specialty
areas of pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric, and
medical surgical nursing.
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25
(d)
For Nursing Education Programs that are seeking
national nursing accreditation, each clinical course
may be formulated to include a combination of Clinical
Experience, and Clinical Simulation components and
the syllabus will identify the number of hours for each
component. The Clinical Simulation component shall
not exceed twenty-five percent of the clinical hours for
each clinical course.
(e)
For Nursing Education Programs that have national
nursing accreditation and that meet the International
Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and
Learning (INACSL) standards, each Clinical
Simulation clock hour may be considered the
equivalent to up to two clock hours of clinical. See
Policy 60-08.
onent shall
not exceed twenty-five percent of the clinical hours for
each clinical course.
(e)
For Nursing Education Programs that have national
nursing accreditation and that meet the International
Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and
Learning (INACSL) standards, each Clinical
Simulation clock hour may be considered the
equivalent to up to two clock hours of clinical. See
Policy 60-08.
(f)
For Nursing Education Programs that are seeking
national nursing accreditation and that meet INACSL
standards, each Clinical Simulation clock hour is
equivalent to one clock hour of clinical. See Policy 60-
08.
(5)
Provide theoretical instruction to prepare the student for the
safe practice of nursing. This theoretical instruction must
include:
(a)
For practical nursing programs, a minimum of 300
theory hours.
(b)
For professional nursing programs, a minimum of 450
theory hours.
(6)
Practical Nursing Education Programs must include didactic
instruction in nursing and clinical practice caring for stable
patients with predictable outcomes.
(7)
Professional Nursing Education Programs must include
didactic instruction in nursing and clinical practice caring for
multiple patients with both predictable and unpredictable
outcomes.
(8)
Utilize a variety of teaching/learning strategies.
(9)
Contain written content outlines for each course.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
26
(10)
Include written statements of specific, measurable
theoretical and clinical outcomes/competencies for each
course.
(11)
Be planned, implemented and evaluated by the Faculty with
provision for student input.
(12)
Include regular review of the rigor, currency, and
cohesiveness of nursing curriculum by Faculty.
(13)
Include courses appropriate for the level of nursing practice
of the Nursing Education Program, including, but not limited
to:
easurable
theoretical and clinical outcomes/competencies for each
course.
(11)
Be planned, implemented and evaluated by the Faculty with
provision for student input.
(12)
Include regular review of the rigor, currency, and
cohesiveness of nursing curriculum by Faculty.
(13)
Include courses appropriate for the level of nursing practice
of the Nursing Education Program, including, but not limited
to:
(a)
Curriculum developed by nursing Faculty that flows
from the nursing education unit /mission into a logical
progression of course outcomes and learning
activities to achieve desired program
objectives/outcomes.
(b)
Curriculum that provides a biological, physical, social
and behavioral sciences foundation for safe and
effective nursing practice.
(c)
Curriculum that provides for critical thinking, clinical
decision making, professional ethics, values,
accountability, delegation, and interdisciplinary
collaboration.
(d)
Curriculum with didactic content and Faculty
supervised Concurrent Clinical Experience in the
promotion, prevention, restoration and maintenance
of health in patients/clients across the life span and in
a variety of types of healthcare settings.
(e)
Curriculum encompassing nursing regulation,
professional standards, legal and ethical issues,
nursing history and trends and nursing informatics.
(f)
Curriculum that provides the student knowledge and
skills to develop competencies in the delivery of safe
patient-centered care, utilizing best evidence and
quality improvement processes.
d.
The Nursing Education Program, by design and as implemented,
shall include:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
27
(1)
Learning strategies that promote the development of safe
clinical practice and leadership and management skills
consistent with the level of licensure.
(2)
Learning experiences and methods of instruction consistent
with the written curriculum plan.
d.
The Nursing Education Program, by design and as implemented,
shall include:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
27
(1)
Learning strategies that promote the development of safe
clinical practice and leadership and management skills
consistent with the level of licensure.
(2)
Learning experiences and methods of instruction consistent
with the written curriculum plan.
(3)
Practice learning environments that are selected and
maintained by Faculty and that provide opportunities for the
variety of learning options appropriate for contemporary
nursing.
16.
Evaluation plans for a Nursing Education Program must be ongoing,
reflect input from students and the community, and evidence relevant
decision-making. The Nursing Education Program must have a written
systematic plan for evaluation of:
a.
Organization and administration of the Nursing Education Program;
b.
Nursing Education Program mission;
c.
DNEP performance;
d.
Faculty performance;
e.
Curriculum objectives and outcomes;
f.
Adherence to program requirements; and
g.
Measurement of program outcomes, including performance of
graduates.
17.
Records and reports for a Nursing Education Program shall be maintained
and submitted as follows:
a.
The Nursing Education Program must provide for a system of
permanent records and reports essential to the operation of the
Nursing Education Program, including:
(1)
Current and final official records for students;
(2)
Current records of Nursing Education Program activities
such as minutes and reports; and
and reports for a Nursing Education Program shall be maintained
and submitted as follows:
a.
The Nursing Education Program must provide for a system of
permanent records and reports essential to the operation of the
Nursing Education Program, including:
(1)
Current and final official records for students;
(2)
Current records of Nursing Education Program activities
such as minutes and reports; and
(3)
Faculty records that demonstrate compliance with Faculty
qualification requirements under this Section (E) of Rule 1.2.
b.
The Nursing Education Program must submit an annual report to
the Board on a Board-authorized form.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
28
c.
Before planned Student Admissions are increased by twenty-five
percent or more from the most recent Board approved admission
request, the Nursing Education Program must submit a report to
the Board that substantiates all requirements of Section (E) of Rule
1.2 have been met.
d.
Three weeks prior to all scheduled Site Visits, the DNEP shall
submit a self-study report to the Board. If nationally accredited, the
Nursing Education Program must submit the self-study reports
prepared for the national accreditation Site Visit.
e.
The Nursing Education Program shall submit copies of all progress
reports required by the national accrediting agency.
f.
Any other reports as may be determined by the Board.
18.
The Board may limit the number of students admitted to a Nursing
Education Program. In making this determination, the Board may consider
factors, including, but not limited to: the number of qualified Faculty,
adequate educational facilities and resources, and the availability of
relevant clinical learning experiences.
F.
ESTABLISHING A NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM (PHASES I THROUGH
III)
1
Board.
18.
The Board may limit the number of students admitted to a Nursing
Education Program. In making this determination, the Board may consider
factors, including, but not limited to: the number of qualified Faculty,
adequate educational facilities and resources, and the availability of
relevant clinical learning experiences.
F.
ESTABLISHING A NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM (PHASES I THROUGH
III)
1.
All educational institutions intending to establish a Nursing Education
Program in Colorado must comply with the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice
Act, the Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other state or federal
regulations for establishing a Nursing Education Program. New Nursing
Education Programs must have initial accreditation as set forth in Sections
(E)(2) and (E)(3) of Rule 1.2.
2.
Phase I of the Approval Process: Initiating a Nursing Education
Program. The Governing Body wishing to establish a Nursing Education
Program must comply with the following requirements:
a.
The Governing Body must inform the Board of its intent to establish
a Nursing Education Program and submit documentation of intent.
b.
The documentation of intent to establish a program shall include
the following information:
(1)
Name, address and current accreditation(s) of the Governing
Body.
(2)
Mission of the Governing Body.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
29
(3)
Relationship of the proposed Nursing Education Program to
the Governing Body.
(4)
Type of proposed Nursing Education Program.
(5)
Rationale for establishing the Nursing Education Program.
(6)
Timetable for development and implementation of the
Nursing Education Program.
(7)
Evidence of adequate financial support and resources for the
planning, implementation and continuation of the Nursing
Education Program.
(8)
Budget for DNEP, Faculty and support positions.
overning Body.
(4)
Type of proposed Nursing Education Program.
(5)
Rationale for establishing the Nursing Education Program.
(6)
Timetable for development and implementation of the
Nursing Education Program.
(7)
Evidence of adequate financial support and resources for the
planning, implementation and continuation of the Nursing
Education Program.
(8)
Budget for DNEP, Faculty and support positions.
(9)
Availability of adequate academic facilities. At a minimum,
such facilities need to include space for classroom
instruction, academic advising, Clinical Laboratory and
clinical and/or Clinical Simulation and library resources.
(10)
Perceived problems in planning, implementing and
continuing the Nursing Education Program.
(11)
Proposed job description and qualifications of the DNEP.
(12)
Any additional information requested by the Board.
(13)
Signature of the Governing Body officers.
c.
The Governing Body shall submit to the Board the results of a
current feasibility study that includes objective data regarding the
following:
(1)
Documented need for the Nursing Education Program,
including evidence of potential employment opportunities
and nursing manpower needs in the geographic area served.
(2)
Ability to hire a qualified DNEP, Faculty and support staff.
(3)
Qualifications of and the number of persons in the potential
student pool.
(4)
Availability of relevant clinical opportunities. The Nursing
Education Program must submit a signed commitment from
the individual who does clinical placement at each clinical
entity, which includes the type(s) of learning opportunities,
average daily census, maximum number of nursing students
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
rsons in the potential
student pool.
(4)
Availability of relevant clinical opportunities. The Nursing
Education Program must submit a signed commitment from
the individual who does clinical placement at each clinical
entity, which includes the type(s) of learning opportunities,
average daily census, maximum number of nursing students
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
30
that can be accommodated, appropriate location of the
clinical entity in relationship to the school, and any limitations
or restrictions imposed by the clinical entity.
d.
The Governing Body of the Nursing Education Program must apply
on a Board-approved application form.
e.
The Board shall review the submitted documentation of intent at the
next regularly-scheduled Full Board meeting and respond in writing
within two weeks of such meeting.
f.
If the Board determines that the Nursing Education Program has
successfully met the requirements of this Section (F)(2) of Rule 1.2,
the Board shall grant Phase I recognition and advise the Governing
Body, in writing, that it has permission to proceed with further
program development.
g.
If the Board determines that the Nursing Education Program has
not successfully met the requirements of this Section (F)(2) of Rule
1.2, the Board shall advise the Governing Body, in writing, of the
specific deficiencies.
3.
Phase II of the Approval Process: Program development phase. Upon
receipt of written verification of Phase I recognition from the Board, the
Nursing Education Program enters Phase II, or the program development
phase, of the Approval Process.
a.
At the beginning of Phase II, the Governing Body shall employ a
qualified DNEP.
b.
The DNEP shall:
(1)
Assemble an Advisory Committee.
(2)
With the advice and counsel of the Advisory Committee,
provide for the development of a Nursing Education Program
that meets the requirements of Rule 1.2.
(3)
Prepare a written report for Board consideration that
evidences the following:
he Approval Process.
a.
At the beginning of Phase II, the Governing Body shall employ a
qualified DNEP.
b.
The DNEP shall:
(1)
Assemble an Advisory Committee.
(2)
With the advice and counsel of the Advisory Committee,
provide for the development of a Nursing Education Program
that meets the requirements of Rule 1.2.
(3)
Prepare a written report for Board consideration that
evidences the following:
(a)
Manner and extent of utilization of the Advisory
Committee.
(b)
Demonstration of support and approval of the
Governing Body.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
31
(c)
Compliance with all requirements of Section (E) of
Rule 1.2, including but not limited to a fully-developed
curriculum as outlined in Section (E)(15) of Rule 1.2.
(d)
Description of approaches to perceived problems in
planning, implementing and continuing the Nursing
Education Program.
(e)
Newly identified problems perceived in the
implementation and continuation of the Nursing
Education Program.
c.
The Nursing Education Program must apply on a Board-approved
application form.
d.
The Board will review the required documentation to determine if all
requirements are met.
e.
If the Board determines that the Nursing Education Program has
successfully met the requirements of this Section (F)(3) of Rule 1.2,
the Board shall grant Interim Approval and authorize the Program
to begin Phase III of the Approval Process. The Board shall advise
the Governing Body, in writing, that it has permission to admit
students and implement the Nursing Education Program as set
forth in Section (F)(4) of Rule 1.2.
f.
If the Board determines that the Nursing Education Program has
not successfully met the requirements of this Section (F)(3) of Rule
1.2, the Board shall advise the Governing Body, in writing, as to
what specific requirements have not been met
verning Body, in writing, that it has permission to admit
students and implement the Nursing Education Program as set
forth in Section (F)(4) of Rule 1.2.
f.
If the Board determines that the Nursing Education Program has
not successfully met the requirements of this Section (F)(3) of Rule
1.2, the Board shall advise the Governing Body, in writing, as to
what specific requirements have not been met. The Nursing
Education Program may revise the written report and request
reconsideration for Interim Approval within no more than one year
from the date the Board advises the Nursing Education Program
that all requirements for Interim Approval have not been met.
During the period in which the Nursing Education Program is
attempting to meet such requirements, the Board may require
additional written reports, at its discretion.
4.
Phase III of the Approval Process (Nursing Education Programs with
Interim Approval): Upon receipt of written verification of Interim Approval,
the Nursing Education Program enters Phase III of the Approval Process.
a.
The Nursing Education Program with Interim Approval shall submit
semiannual reports to the Board regarding the progress and
problems of program implementation, evidence of adequate clinical
placements, adequate qualified faculty to meet the curriculum, and
initial implementation of a systematic evaluation plan.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
32
b.
The Board may review the semiannual reports and may require
additional information.
c.
Written and published admission policies of the Nursing Education
Program with Interim Approval must be consistent with the policies
of the Governing Body and meet generally accepted education
standards.
d.
The Board shall conduct a Site Visit within 180 days of admission of
students to the Nursing Education Program.
e.
Within ninety days of the Site Visit, a written report of the Site Visit
shall be submitted to the Nursing Education Program for comment
ucation
Program with Interim Approval must be consistent with the policies
of the Governing Body and meet generally accepted education
standards.
d.
The Board shall conduct a Site Visit within 180 days of admission of
students to the Nursing Education Program.
e.
Within ninety days of the Site Visit, a written report of the Site Visit
shall be submitted to the Nursing Education Program for comment.
Such comments shall be submitted by the Nursing Education
Program within thirty days of the date of the report. The Site Visit
Report and comments will be presented to the Board at the next
regularly-scheduled Full Board meeting.
f.
Within nine months of graduation of the initial class, the Nursing
Education Program shall submit data and analyses obtained
through the Nursing Education Program evaluation process.
g.
At a time not to exceed one year following the graduation date of
the initial class, the Nursing Education Program must request Full
Approval. The Nursing Education Program must submit a self-study
of program components and outcomes.
h.
The Nursing Education Program must submit the request for Full
Approval on a Board-approved application form.
i.
Students admitted to a program with Interim Approval shall be
permitted to take the licensing examination at the appropriate time,
provided the Nursing Education Program continues to maintain
Interim Approval.
j.
The NCLEX pass rate for Nursing Education Programs for first-time
takers must be at or above seventy-five percent in order to obtain
Full Approval.
k.
The Board may withdraw Interim Approval when a Nursing
Education Program fails to maintain the Nursing Education
Program as approved or fails to qualify for Full Approval within one
year following the graduation date of the initial class. The Board
shall advise the Governing Body, in writing, of specific deficiencies.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
ll Approval.
k.
The Board may withdraw Interim Approval when a Nursing
Education Program fails to maintain the Nursing Education
Program as approved or fails to qualify for Full Approval within one
year following the graduation date of the initial class. The Board
shall advise the Governing Body, in writing, of specific deficiencies.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
33
l.
If the Board determines that the Nursing Education Program has
successfully met the requirements of this Section (F)(4) of Rule 1.2,
the Board shall advise the Governing Body, in writing, that the
Nursing Education Program is granted Full Approval.
G.
FULL APPROVAL OF A NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM (PHASE IV)
1.
Nursing Education Programs with Full Approval shall be reviewed by the
Board once every five years.
2.
For Nursing Education Programs accredited by a national nursing
accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of
Education, the Board may accept national nursing accreditation site visits
in lieu of a Board Site Visit. Nursing Education Programs with Full
Approval and national nursing accreditation may follow the accrediting
body’s on-site evaluation schedule. Board joint reviews are at the
discretion of the Board. The Board reserves the right to conduct a
separate Site Visit if issues or information are identified that in the opinion
of the Board warrant separate review.
3.
Within ninety days of the Site Visit, a written report of the Site Visit shall be
submitted to the Nursing Education Program for comment. Such
comments shall be submitted by the Nursing Education Program within
ninety days of the date of the report and on a Board approved form. The
Site Visit report and comments will be presented to the Board at the next
regularly-scheduled Full Board meeting for which the comments were
timely submitted in advance of the external agenda deadline.
4
itted to the Nursing Education Program for comment. Such
comments shall be submitted by the Nursing Education Program within
ninety days of the date of the report and on a Board approved form. The
Site Visit report and comments will be presented to the Board at the next
regularly-scheduled Full Board meeting for which the comments were
timely submitted in advance of the external agenda deadline.
4.
If the Board determines that all requirements of this Section (G) of Rule
1.2 have not been met, the Board may, in its discretion, initiate the
process of withdrawal of Full Approval, or allow the Nursing Education
Program to continue for a specified period of time not to exceed one year.
H.
WITHDRAWAL OF FULL APPROVAL OF A NURSING EDUCATION
PROGRAM
1.
After consideration of available information, the Board may determine that
a Nursing Education Program’s Full Approval should be completely
withdrawn and the Nursing Education Program closed, or that the Nursing
Education Program should be placed on Conditional Approval, for any of
the following reasons:
a.
The Nursing Education Program does not meet or comply with all
the provisions contained in the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act,
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
34
the Board’s Rules and Regulations, or other state or federal laws or
regulations.
b.
The Nursing Education Program has been denied, had withdrawn,
or had a change of program accreditation by a:
(1)
National nursing accrediting body approved by the United
States Department of Education;
(2)
Regional institutional accreditation agency; or
F COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
34
the Board’s Rules and Regulations, or other state or federal laws or
regulations.
b.
The Nursing Education Program has been denied, had withdrawn,
or had a change of program accreditation by a:
(1)
National nursing accrediting body approved by the United
States Department of Education;
(2)
Regional institutional accreditation agency; or
(3)
National institutional accreditation agency.
c.
The Nursing Education Program has provided to the Board
misleading, inaccurate, or falsified information to obtain or maintain
Full Approval.
d.
The Nursing Education Program has a NCLEX pass rate average
which falls below seventy-five percent for eight consecutive
quarters. The NCLEX pass rate for Nursing Education Programs for
first-time writers must be at or above seventy-five percent.
2.
Following a decision to place a Nursing Education Program on Conditional
Approval or otherwise withdraw Full Approval, the Board shall notify the
Governing Body, in writing, of specific deficiencies within fourteen days of
the Board decision.
3.
The Nursing Education Program shall have ninety days from the receipt of
the notice of deficiency referenced in Section (H)(2) of Rule 1.2 to provide
written documentation that the deficiencies have been corrected or to
provide a written plan of correction.
4.
The Board may then refer the matter to the Office of the Attorney General
for institution of formal proceedings in accordance with the Administrative
Procedure Act and the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act. The matter
shall be governed by Section (J) of Rule 1.2.
5.
A Nursing Education Program with Conditional Approval must submit
status reports, on a schedule determined by the Board, concerning
correction of the identified deficiencies.
6
Office of the Attorney General
for institution of formal proceedings in accordance with the Administrative
Procedure Act and the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act. The matter
shall be governed by Section (J) of Rule 1.2.
5.
A Nursing Education Program with Conditional Approval must submit
status reports, on a schedule determined by the Board, concerning
correction of the identified deficiencies.
6.
If the Board finds that a Nursing Education Program with Conditional
Approval has not corrected the deficiencies or met the required conditions
within the time period established by the Board, the Board may withdraw
Conditional Approval and close the Nursing Education Program.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
35
7.
If the Board withdraws Conditional Approval and closes the Nursing
Education Program, the Board shall notify the Governing Body and the
DNEP in writing of the grounds for closure within fourteen days of the
Board decision.
I.
RESTORING FULL APPROVAL TO A NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM
1.
After demonstrating compliance with the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice
Act, the Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other state or federal
regulations, a Nursing Education Program with Conditional Approval may
petition the Board in writing for restoring Full Approval.
2.
The decision to restore Full Approval rests solely with the Board.
3.
If the Board does not restore Full Approval, the Nursing Education
Program may petition the Board for an extension of Conditional Approval
not to exceed one year. As part of its petition, the Nursing Education
Program must submit a corrective action plan that includes a time table to
correct the identified deficiencies.
4.
This Section (I) of Rule 1.2 does not apply to programs closed by the
Board. Such closed programs must submit initial application and comply
with Rule 1.2.
J.
DENIAL OR WITHDRAWAL OF APPROVAL OR RECOGNITION OF A
NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM
1
s part of its petition, the Nursing Education
Program must submit a corrective action plan that includes a time table to
correct the identified deficiencies.
4.
This Section (I) of Rule 1.2 does not apply to programs closed by the
Board. Such closed programs must submit initial application and comply
with Rule 1.2.
J.
DENIAL OR WITHDRAWAL OF APPROVAL OR RECOGNITION OF A
NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM
1.
Until a Nursing Education Program obtains Full Approval, it shall be
treated as an applicant for purposes of the Administrative Procedure Act
and Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act, and any request for a hearing
contesting the Board’s denial or withdrawal of Phase I, Phase II or Phase
III recognition of the Approval Process shall be governed by section 24-4-
104(9), C.R.S.
2.
A Nursing Education Program with Full or Conditional Approval shall be
treated as a licensee pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act.
3.
The Board may withdraw a Nursing Education Program’s Full Approval or
Conditional Approval prior to hearing if the Board, after full investigation,
determines that it has objective and reasonable grounds to believe and
finds that the Nursing Education Program has been guilty of deliberate
and willful violation or that the public health, safety, or welfare imperatively
requires emergency action, and incorporates the findings in a written
notice to the Nursing Education Program. Full investigation means a
reasonable ascertainment of the underlying facts on which the Board’s
action is based.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
has been guilty of deliberate
and willful violation or that the public health, safety, or welfare imperatively
requires emergency action, and incorporates the findings in a written
notice to the Nursing Education Program. Full investigation means a
reasonable ascertainment of the underlying facts on which the Board’s
action is based.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
36
4.
The Nursing Education Program must inform its enrolled students and all
students applying to the Nursing Education Program of any change in the
program’s Approval status within two weeks of the date of the Board’s
notification to the Nursing Education Program of the change in status. The
Nursing Education Program’s notification must, to the extent possible,
include notification of whether such students or prospective students will
be eligible to take the licensure examination.
K.
VOLUNTARY NURSING EDUCATION PROGRAM CLOSURES
1.
Nursing Education Programs desiring to close shall notify the Board, in
writing, at least six months prior to the date of closing.
2.
As part of the notification of closure required in Section (K)(1) of Rule 1.2,
the Nursing Education Program shall submit a plan assuring for a smooth
transition and the equitable treatment of students affected by the program
closure.
L.
CHANGE OF GOVERNING BODY OR DNEP
1.
When the Governing Body or DNEP of a Nursing Education Program
changes, the new Governing Body or DNEP shall notify the Board within
thirty days and comply or maintain compliance with the Nurse and Nurse
Aide Practice Act, the Board’s Rules and Regulations, and all other state
or federal regulations.
M.
WAIVER OF PROVISIONS OF RULE 1.2
1.
Upon a showing of good cause, the Board may waive any of the
requirements in Rule 1.2. A request for waiver shall be submitted in writing
and describe the circumstances relating to the particular request. The
decision to grant or deny such a waiver shall be at the sole discretion of
the Board
Rules and Regulations, and all other state
or federal regulations.
M.
WAIVER OF PROVISIONS OF RULE 1.2
1.
Upon a showing of good cause, the Board may waive any of the
requirements in Rule 1.2. A request for waiver shall be submitted in writing
and describe the circumstances relating to the particular request. The
decision to grant or deny such a waiver shall be at the sole discretion of
the Board. All waivers shall be limited to the terms and conditions provided
by the Board. No waiver shall be granted if in conflict with applicable state
or federal law. Upon receipt of the written waiver request, the matter will
be considered at the next regularly-scheduled Full Board meeting for
which the written waiver request was timely submitted in advance of the
external agenda deadline.
2.
The Board shall grant waivers sparingly, and only where it finds
circumstances require a waiver. Although such waivers may be rare, the
Board encourages waiver requests for pilot and innovative projects.
Adopted: January 27, 2010
Effective: March 31, 2010
Revised: January 22, 2013
Effective: March 18, 2013
Revised: April 22, 2014
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
37
Effective: June 14, 2014
Revised: April 26, 2016
Effective: June 30, 2016
Revised: January 31, 2018
Adopted April 18, 2018
Revised: October 27, 2021
Effective: December 30, 2021
1.3
RULES AND REGULATIONS REGARDING THE IMPOSITION OF FINES
A.
BASIS: The authority for the promulgation of these rules and regulations by the
State Board of Nursing (“Board”) is set forth in sections 12-20-204(1), 12-255-
107(1)(j), and 12-255-119(4)(c)(III), C.R.S.
B.
PURPOSE: Section 12-255-119(4)(c)(III), C.R.S. provides authority for the Board
to impose a fine in addition to any other disciplinary action taken. The purpose of
these rules and regulations is to establish a fine structure and the circumstances
under which fines may be imposed by the Board.
C
(“Board”) is set forth in sections 12-20-204(1), 12-255-
107(1)(j), and 12-255-119(4)(c)(III), C.R.S.
B.
PURPOSE: Section 12-255-119(4)(c)(III), C.R.S. provides authority for the Board
to impose a fine in addition to any other disciplinary action taken. The purpose of
these rules and regulations is to establish a fine structure and the circumstances
under which fines may be imposed by the Board.
C.
INTRODUCTION: The Board [acting as either the inquiry or hearings panel] may
impose discipline in the form of a fine of no less than $250.00 but no more than
$1,000.00 per violation of the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act or any rule
adopted by the Board. The fine may be in addition to any other discipline
imposed by the Board pursuant to section 12-255-120, C.R.S. Payment of a fine
does not exempt the licensee from compliance with the Nurse and Nurse Aide
Practice Act.
A fine of $500.00 or less that is imposed by the Board, must be paid in full
including the applicable surcharge, at the time the Final Agency Order is entered
or a Stipulation is reached between the parties. A fine greater than $500.00 that
is imposed by the Board, must be paid in full including the applicable surcharge,
according to the time frame set forth in the Final Agency Order or Stipulation. A
licensee who fails to pay a fine that is required pursuant to a Final Agency Order
or Stipulation is subject to suspension of an individual’s nursing or certified
midwife license as set forth in section 12-255-119(4)(c)(III), C.R.S.
The Board may impose a fine, in addition to any other disciplinary sanction,
under the following circumstances:
D.
PRACTICING WITH AN EXPIRED LICENSE:
1.
Pursuant to section 12-20-202(1)(e), C.R.S., a licensee has sixty days
within which to renew a license after the date of expiration without the
imposition of a disciplinary sanction for practicing nursing or midwifery on
an expired license
C.R.S.
The Board may impose a fine, in addition to any other disciplinary sanction,
under the following circumstances:
D.
PRACTICING WITH AN EXPIRED LICENSE:
1.
Pursuant to section 12-20-202(1)(e), C.R.S., a licensee has sixty days
within which to renew a license after the date of expiration without the
imposition of a disciplinary sanction for practicing nursing or midwifery on
an expired license. A licensee who fails to renew his license within the
sixty day grace period shall be treated as having an expired license as set
forth in section 12-20-202(2), C.R.S.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
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38
2.
The Board may impose a fine for the period of sixty-one days or greater
but less than two years from the date of expiration of a license if the Board
determines that the facts and circumstances warrant a fine in addition to
other disciplinary action.
3.
If the Board finds that the licensee has practiced nursing or midwifery with
an expired license for a two year period or greater but less than three
years from the date of expiration of the license, the Board may impose a
fine not to exceed $250.00.
4.
If the Board finds that the licensee has practiced nursing or midwifery with
an expired license for a three year period or greater but less than four
years from the date of expiration of the license, the Board may impose a
fine not to exceed $500.00.
5.
If the Board finds that the licensee has practiced nursing or midwifery with
an expired license for a four year period or greater but less than five years
from the date of expiration of the license, the Board may impose a fine not
to exceed $750.00.
6.
If the Board finds that the licensee has practiced nursing or midwifery with
an expired license for five years or more from the date of expiration of the
license, the Board may impose a fine not to exceed $1000.00.
E.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF A FINAL
AGENCY ORDER OR A STIPULATION
1
he date of expiration of the license, the Board may impose a fine not
to exceed $750.00.
6.
If the Board finds that the licensee has practiced nursing or midwifery with
an expired license for five years or more from the date of expiration of the
license, the Board may impose a fine not to exceed $1000.00.
E.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF A FINAL
AGENCY ORDER OR A STIPULATION
1.
The Board may impose a fine for failure to comply with the terms and
conditions of probation as specified in the Stipulation and Final Agency
Order (“Stipulation”) as agreed to by the licensee, or the Final Agency
Order issued by the Board. If a licensee fails to timely submit the
documents as required by his or her Stipulation or Final Agency Order, the
Board my impose a fine in addition to any other disciplinary sanction as
follows:
a.
For a first violation, where the required document(s) are submitted
over thirty days late, the Board may impose a fine not to exceed
$250.00.
b.
For a second violation, where the required document(s) are
submitted over thirty days late, the Board may impose a fine not to
exceed $500.00.
c.
For a third violation, where the required document(s) are submitted
over thirty days late, the Board may impose a fine not to exceed
$1000.00.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
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39
F.
PRACTICING OUTSIDE SCOPE OF ROLE/SPECIALTY AND POPULATION
FOCUS
1.
If a licensee engages in the practice of nursing or midwifery that is outside
his or her Scope of Role/Specialty and Population Focus, the Board may
impose a fine, in addition to any other disciplinary sanction, as follows:
a.
For a first practice violation, the Board may impose a fine not to
exceed $500.00.
b.
For a second practice violation, the Board may impose a fine not to
exceed $1000.00.
G.
OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES FOR THE IMPOSITIONS OF FINES
1
midwifery that is outside
his or her Scope of Role/Specialty and Population Focus, the Board may
impose a fine, in addition to any other disciplinary sanction, as follows:
a.
For a first practice violation, the Board may impose a fine not to
exceed $500.00.
b.
For a second practice violation, the Board may impose a fine not to
exceed $1000.00.
G.
OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES FOR THE IMPOSITIONS OF FINES
1.
The Board may impose a fine at its discretion where the licensee has
benefitted financially from his or her violation of the Nurse and Nurse Aide
Practice Act or any rule adopted by the Board. In such cases, the amount
of the fine will be based on the facts and circumstances of the particular
case.
Adopted: January 27, 2010
Effective: March 31, 2010
Revised: January 24, 2024
Effective: March 16, 2024
1.4
CONFIDENTIAL AGREEMENTS
A.
STATEMENT OF BASIS: The authority for the promulgation of these rules and
regulations by the State Board of Nursing (“Board”) is set forth in sections 12-
255-107 and 12-255-135, C.R.S.
B.
PURPOSE: To specify procedures and criteria relating to the entering into
Confidential Agreements with licensees.
C.
Board Discretion. Compliance with this Rule 1.4 is a prerequisite for eligibility to
enter into a Confidential Agreement with the Board pursuant to sections 12-255-
120 and 12-30-108, C.R.S., and does not guarantee a right to a Confidential
Agreement or require the Board to enter into a Confidential Agreement with the
licensee. Upon notification by the licensee, the Board will evaluate all facts and
circumstances to determine if a Confidential Agreement is appropriate.
D.
Notice to the Board. No later than thirty days from the date a physical illness or
condition, or behavioral health, mental health, or substance use disorder that
affects a licensee’s ability to practice nursing or midwifery with reasonable skill
and safety, or may endanger the health or safety of individuals under the
licensee’s care, the licensee shall provide the Board, in writing, the following
information:
Board. No later than thirty days from the date a physical illness or
condition, or behavioral health, mental health, or substance use disorder that
affects a licensee’s ability to practice nursing or midwifery with reasonable skill
and safety, or may endanger the health or safety of individuals under the
licensee’s care, the licensee shall provide the Board, in writing, the following
information:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
40
1.
The diagnosis and a description of the illness, condition, or disorder;
2.
The date that the illness, condition, or disorder was first diagnosed;
3.
The name of the current treatment provider and documentation from the
current treatment provider; confirming the diagnosis, date of onset, and
treatment plan;
4.
A description of the licensee’s practice and any modifications, limitations
or restrictions that have been made to such practice as a result of the
illness, condition, or disorder; and
5.
Whether the licensee has been evaluated by, or is currently receiving
services from, the Board’s authorized Peer Health Assistance Program
related to the illness or condition and, if so, the date of initial contact and
whether services are ongoing.
E.
Change of Circumstances. The licensee shall further notify the Board of any
significant change in the illness, condition or disorder (“change of condition”) that
impacts the licensee’s ability to perform a nursing or midwifery service with
reasonable skill and safety. The licensee must notify the Board of any significant
change in condition, whether positive or negative. Such notification shall occur
within thirty days of the change of condition. The licensee shall provide the
Board, in writing, the following information:
1.
The date of the change of illness, condition, or disorder;
2
y to perform a nursing or midwifery service with
reasonable skill and safety. The licensee must notify the Board of any significant
change in condition, whether positive or negative. Such notification shall occur
within thirty days of the change of condition. The licensee shall provide the
Board, in writing, the following information:
1.
The date of the change of illness, condition, or disorder;
2.
The name of the current treatment provider and documentation from the
current treatment provider confirming the change of condition, the date
that the condition changed, the nature of the change of condition, and the
current treatment plan;
3.
A description of the licensee’s practice and any modifications, limitations
or restrictions to that practice that have been made as a result of the
change of illness, condition, or disorder;
4.
Whether the licensee has been evaluated by, or is currently receiving
services from, the Board’s authorized Peer Assistance Services related to
the change of condition and, if so, the date of initial contact and whether
services are ongoing.
F.
Failure to Notify. If the Board discovers that a licensee has a mental or physical
illness, condition, or disorder that impacts the licensee’s ability to provide nursing
care with reasonable skill and safety and the licensee has not timely notified the
Board of the illness, condition, or disorder, the licensee shall not be eligible for a
Confidential Agreement and may be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to
section 12-255-120, C.R.S.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
sorder that impacts the licensee’s ability to provide nursing
care with reasonable skill and safety and the licensee has not timely notified the
Board of the illness, condition, or disorder, the licensee shall not be eligible for a
Confidential Agreement and may be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to
section 12-255-120, C.R.S.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
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41
1.5
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR LICENSURE OF PSYCHIATRIC
TECHNICIANS
A.
STATEMENT OF BASIS AND PURPOSE
The Rules in Rule 1.5 are adopted pursuant to authority granted the State Board
of Nursing pursuant to sections 12-20-202(3), 12-20-204(1), and 12-255-
107(1)(k), C.R.S., in order to specify procedures used in obtaining and
maintaining psychiatric technician licensure.
B.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION
1.
The State Board of Nursing (herein after referred to as the “Board”)
determines the licensing examination for psychiatric technicians.
2.
Any needed contract for the use of the examination will be approved by
the Executive Officer or designee in the absence of the Executive Officer.
3.
The examination will be administered by the Board at least annually at
such times and places determined by the Board.
4.
Candidates will be informed in writing regarding examination performance.
5.
Applicants for licensure by examination must pass the written examination
in three or fewer attempts within one year of receipt of a complete
psychiatric technician application. The Board retains the ability to grant a
waiver for a fourth attempt of the exam upon petition of an applicant. The
authority to grant a waiver is at the sole discretion of the Board.
C.
APPLICANTS FOR LICENSURE MUST:
1.
Apply in a manner approved by the Board.
2.
Submit payment of application fee.
3.
Submit proof of successful completion of an approved psychiatric
technician program as described in Section (D) of Rule 1.5.
4.
Successfully complete a state approved psychiatric technician licensure or
registration examination.
5
t a waiver is at the sole discretion of the Board.
C.
APPLICANTS FOR LICENSURE MUST:
1.
Apply in a manner approved by the Board.
2.
Submit payment of application fee.
3.
Submit proof of successful completion of an approved psychiatric
technician program as described in Section (D) of Rule 1.5.
4.
Successfully complete a state approved psychiatric technician licensure or
registration examination.
5.
Submit verification of high school graduation or equivalent.
6.
Take an oath that they have not committed any crime that constitutes a
violation of the Psychiatric Technician Practice Act.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
42
7.
Applicants for licensure by endorsement must also include verification of
active licensure in another state or territory of the United States, provided
the requirements in the other jurisdiction are substantially equivalent to
those in Colorado at the time of application.
D.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE
1.
Candidates for licensure must have successfully completed:
a.
A psychiatric technician program approved by the Colorado Board
of Nursing; or
b.
An approved or accredited program outside Colorado that meets
substantially the same educational requirements as Colorado
programs; or
c.
United States military personnel who have education and training
documented on an official transcript and determined to be
substantially equivalent, as determined by the Board, to the
psychiatric technician training program curriculum requirements in
Rule 1.6 for Accreditation of Psychiatric Technician Programs will
be eligible to take the Colorado licensing exam for psychiatric
technicians as provided for in section 12-20-202(4),C.R.S. and are
subject to requirements of Section (C) of these Rule 1.5.
E.
GENERAL RULES RELATING TO LICENSES
1
t, as determined by the Board, to the
psychiatric technician training program curriculum requirements in
Rule 1.6 for Accreditation of Psychiatric Technician Programs will
be eligible to take the Colorado licensing exam for psychiatric
technicians as provided for in section 12-20-202(4),C.R.S. and are
subject to requirements of Section (C) of these Rule 1.5.
E.
GENERAL RULES RELATING TO LICENSES
1.
The Executive Officer of the Board has been delegated authority to
administer examinations, issue licenses by endorsement and examination,
renew licenses, and issue temporary licenses and permits to qualified
applicants during the period between meetings.
2.
Certificates are subject to renewal as set forth in section 12-20-202,
C.R.S.
a.
The license may be renewed when the psychiatric technician
maintains continued licensure prior to the expiration date of the
license.
(1)
Psychiatric technician license renewal applications received
after the license expiration date, and prior to the end of the
grace period, may be assessed a late fee.
(2)
The licensee’s online renewal confirmation or a receipt from
the Board will be considered as proof of renewal until the
renewed license is issued.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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43
(3)
Separate payments are required for each renewal
application.
b.
A psychiatric technician license not renewed within the renewal
period including the sixty-day grace period will be subject to
reinstatement requirements.
3.
Change of name and address:
a.
The licensee must supply to the Board legal evidence of name
change within thirty days of the effective date of the name change.
b.
The licensee must notify the Board within thirty days of any change
of address. This notification may be submitted in writing or via the
Board’s on-line system.
4.
Any application not completed within one year of the date of the original
application expires and will be purged.
5.
Inactive status:
a.
Licensees may apply for inactive status if not practicing as a
psychiatric technician.
b
change.
b.
The licensee must notify the Board within thirty days of any change
of address. This notification may be submitted in writing or via the
Board’s on-line system.
4.
Any application not completed within one year of the date of the original
application expires and will be purged.
5.
Inactive status:
a.
Licensees may apply for inactive status if not practicing as a
psychiatric technician.
b.
A licensee must notify the Board in writing of such inactive status.
Prior to resumption of practice, the licensee shall be required to
notify the Board and remit a renewal fee for the current annual
period. After a five year period in inactive status, the license may be
renewed only by complying with provisions of licensure by
examination as found in Section (C) of Rule 1.5.
F.
REINSTATEMENT and REACTIVATION
1.
A licensee who does not renew his or her license within the sixty-day
grace period, as set forth in section 12-20-202(1)(e), C.R.S., will have an
expired license and is ineligible to practice until such license is reinstated.
2.
A licensee may elect inactive status, but may not apply for inactive status
to avoid disciplinary action. Upon inactivation, any and all authorities
attached to that license will be cancelled.
3.
The licensee must apply for reinstatement or reactivation in a manner
approved by the Board.
4.
The licensee applying for reinstatement or reactivation must pay an
application fee.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
may not apply for inactive status
to avoid disciplinary action. Upon inactivation, any and all authorities
attached to that license will be cancelled.
3.
The licensee must apply for reinstatement or reactivation in a manner
approved by the Board.
4.
The licensee applying for reinstatement or reactivation must pay an
application fee.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
44
5.
A licensee who has practiced on an expired or inactive license may be
subject to disciplinary action.
6.
A licensee whose license has been expired or inactive two or less years
must comply with requirements of sections (F)(3) and (F)(4) of Rule 1.5.
7.
An individual whose license has been expired or inactive for more than
two but no more than five years must comply with requirements of
sections (F)(3) and (F)(4) of Rule 1.5. and demonstrate competency. The
Program Director or designee may accept proof of competency through 20
contact hours or continuing education for each two years without an active
license. Hours of clinical experience for clinical competency may also be
considered.
8.
Upon a petition by the licensee, and with due consideration of the need to
protect the public, the Board may accept an alternative method for
establishing competency, to include hours worked under a temporary
emergency license. The decision to accept an alternative method for
establishing competency is at the sole discretion of the Board.
9.
A licensee whose license has been expired for five years or more must
comply with Sections (F)(3) and (F)(4) of Rule 1.5 and demonstrate
competency to practice. Competency to practice for the purposes of this
Section (F)(9) of Rule 1.5 may be demonstrated by:
a.
Attesting to having an active psychiatric technician license in good
standing in another state or territory of the United States and to
having actively practiced as a psychiatric technician in that state or
territory of the United State during the two years immediately
preceding the application receipt date; or
b
actice for the purposes of this
Section (F)(9) of Rule 1.5 may be demonstrated by:
a.
Attesting to having an active psychiatric technician license in good
standing in another state or territory of the United States and to
having actively practiced as a psychiatric technician in that state or
territory of the United State during the two years immediately
preceding the application receipt date; or
b.
Provide evidence of having reentered and successfully completed
an accredited psychiatric technician education program and
retaking and passing the licensing examination for psychiatric
technicians.
G.
LICENSURE AS MILITARY SPOUSE
1.
The spouse of a person who is actively serving the in the United States
Armed forces and who is stationed in Colorado in accordance with military
orders shall be entitled to a temporary license as set forth in section 12-
20-202, C.R.S.
Adopted: January 9, 1997
Adopted: January 9, 1997
Revised: October 24, 2012
Effective: December 15, 2012
Revised: January 22, 2013
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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45
Effective: March 18, 2013
Revised: July 26, 2017
Revised: October 27, 2021
Effective: December 30, 2021
1.6
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR APPROVAL OF PSYCHIATRIC
TECHNICIAN PROGRAMS
General authority sections 12-20-204(1) and 12-255-107(1)(k), C.R.S.
Specific Authority sections 12-20-204(1) and 12-255-107(1)(k)(II, III, and IV), C.R.S.
A.
Purpose: To specify procedures and criteria relating to the approval of
psychiatric technician training programs.
B.
DEFINITIONS
Approval: Recognition that a psychiatric technician program (hereinafter referred
to as program) is meeting the standards as established by the Board.
C.
PURPOSE OF APPROVAL
To establish eligibility of graduates of approved programs to apply for licensure.
D.
INITIAL PROCEDURES FOR APPROVAL
Phase I, Application Approval
1.
The governing body establishing a new psychiatric technician program
shall inform the Board in writing before initiation and such program shall
have the approval of the Board.
2
eting the standards as established by the Board.
C.
PURPOSE OF APPROVAL
To establish eligibility of graduates of approved programs to apply for licensure.
D.
INITIAL PROCEDURES FOR APPROVAL
Phase I, Application Approval
1.
The governing body establishing a new psychiatric technician program
shall inform the Board in writing before initiation and such program shall
have the approval of the Board.
2.
An application shall be submitted on forms provided by the Board with the
following information:
a.
Description of the program to be established and an operational
plan of how the body will develop a program which meets the
standards for approval set forth in Rule 1.6.
b.
Organizational structure.
c.
Financial resources.
d.
Ability of the geographic community to support adequately the
program in relation to:
(1)
Potential students,
(2)
Student support services,
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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46
(3)
Faculty,
(4)
Written commitment of clinical resources,
(5)
Physical facilities, and
(6)
Number of patient populations with a variety of nursing
needs.
e.
Approval of the university, college, vocational technical school or
institution by the appropriate national or regional accrediting
agency.
f.
Philosophy and purposes of the university, college, vocational
technical school or institution.
g.
Tentative time table for initiating the program.
h.
Signatures of appropriate administrative officers.
3.
The Board shall review the application within ninety days and may direct
that a site visit occur before approval of the application. Such visit shall
occur within a reasonable period of time after the Board directs a site visit.
4.
A written report of the site visit shall be submitted to the Board and the
appropriate administrative officers within a reasonable amount of time, not
to exceed sixty days unless extended by the Board.
5.
The Board shall advise the governing body concerning approval or
disapproval of the application within thirty days of the Board's review
le period of time after the Board directs a site visit.
4.
A written report of the site visit shall be submitted to the Board and the
appropriate administrative officers within a reasonable amount of time, not
to exceed sixty days unless extended by the Board.
5.
The Board shall advise the governing body concerning approval or
disapproval of the application within thirty days of the Board's review. The
Board shall specify the grounds for disapproval.
6.
In the event of disapproval of the application, the Board shall grant a
hearing, if requested, pursuant to the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act
and the Administrative Procedures Act.
Phase II, Interim Accreditation
7.
The governing body shall secure a Director, with qualifications set forth in
Section (E)(4) (b)(3) of Rule 1.5, for the psychiatric technician program.
The Director shall be responsible for providing compliance with this Rule.
8.
The Director shall prepare a written report for the Board showing evidence
of meeting the requirements of Section (E)(2) of Rule 1.5.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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47
9.
The Board shall determine whether the program is prepared to admit
students and if so, grant interim approval. If not, the Board shall specify
the grounds for disapproval and the program can request a hearing
pursuant to the Nurse and Nurse Aide Practice Act and the Administrative
Procedures Act.
Phase III, Full Approval
10.
The Director shall:
a.
Ensure the program is developed according to the rules and
regulations for approval of this Rule.
b.
Provide written progress reports as requested by the Board.
11.
Prior to graduation of the first class, a report by the program shall be
submitted to the Board addressing criteria as outlined in section (E) of
Rule 1.5 and a survey visit shall be made by site visitor(s) designated by
the Board on a time frame established by the Board for consideration of
approval of the program.
a
of this Rule.
b.
Provide written progress reports as requested by the Board.
11.
Prior to graduation of the first class, a report by the program shall be
submitted to the Board addressing criteria as outlined in section (E) of
Rule 1.5 and a survey visit shall be made by site visitor(s) designated by
the Board on a time frame established by the Board for consideration of
approval of the program.
a.
Notice of the Board's action to approve or disapprove shall be sent
in writing to the administrative officer and the Director of the
program within fourteen days of the Board's decision. If a program
is disapproved, the Board shall provide with specificity the grounds
for such.
b.
In the event of disapproval of the application, the Board shall grant
a hearing, if requested, pursuant to the Nurse and Nurse Aide
Practice Act and the Administrative Procedures Act.
E.
STANDARDS FOR APPROVING A PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN PROGRAM
All psychiatric technician education programs must conform with generally
accepted psychiatric technician nursing education standards.
1.
Philosophy, purposes and objectives:
a.
The faculty develops, approves, and periodically evaluates the
philosophy, purposes and objectives of the psychiatric technician
program. Such statements shall express the educational principles
of the program and include a description of the graduate.
b.
The statements of philosophy, purposes and objectives shall be
utilized in planning, implementing and evaluating the total program.
2.
Organization and administration:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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State Board of Nursing
objectives of the psychiatric technician
program. Such statements shall express the educational principles
of the program and include a description of the graduate.
b.
The statements of philosophy, purposes and objectives shall be
utilized in planning, implementing and evaluating the total program.
2.
Organization and administration:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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48
a.
There shall be a governing body which has the legal authority to
conduct the psychiatric technician program, determine general
policy and provide financial support for such program.
b.
The governing body shall have in place policies regarding refunds
of fees and tuition, and ethical standards for recruitment and
advertising.
c.
There shall be an organizational plan which demonstrates and
describes the relationship of the psychiatric technician program to
the governing body and the internal organization of the program.
d.
There shall be a qualified Director with the authority, in accordance
with the policies of the governing body, to:
(1)
Prepare and administer a financial plan.
(2)
Develop, implement and evaluate the psychiatric technician
program.
(3)
Arrange for educational facilities, clinical resources, and
student services.
(4)
Arrange for qualified faculty.
(5)
Plan for learning experiences with a variety of patient needs
and obtain written agreements with the providers of clinical
resources.
(6)
Develop policies relating to admission, retention,
progression, reentry and graduation of students.
(7)
Provide for a system of permanent records and reports
essential to the operation of the psychiatric technician
program which shall include:
(a)
Current and final official records for students.
(b)
Current records of program activities such as minutes
and reports.
(c)
Faculty records which demonstrate compliance with
faculty requirements as delineated in Section (E)(4) of
Rule 1.5.
of students.
(7)
Provide for a system of permanent records and reports
essential to the operation of the psychiatric technician
program which shall include:
(a)
Current and final official records for students.
(b)
Current records of program activities such as minutes
and reports.
(c)
Faculty records which demonstrate compliance with
faculty requirements as delineated in Section (E)(4) of
Rule 1.5.
(d)
Annual report due on a schedule determined by the
Board to be submitted to the Board (form furnished by
the Board office) shall include, at a minimum:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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49
(i)
Developments in the psychiatric technician
program;
(ii)
Student policies, including student health;
(iii)
Current problems and recommendations;
(iv)
Curriculum plan;
(v)
Clinical resources including confirmation of
adequate patient populations;
(vi)
Faculty list for the year including qualifications
and area of responsibility;
(vii)
Listing of hours of instruction;
(viii)
School catalog;
(ix)
Audited financial report of the governing
institution including statement of income and
expenditures. This needs to be submitted only
every two years on a schedule determined by
the Board; and
(x)
Proposals and plans for future development
including either increases or decreases of
twenty-five percent or greater in student
numbers admitted, types of students,
admission times and progression options.
(e)
Biannual report including, but not limited to numbers
of student admissions, graduations and faculty list.
e.
The amount of time allocated the Director for psychiatric technician
administrative duties for one campus shall be related to the number
of students enrolled in the psychiatric technician program at that
campus. The Director may delegate administrative duties and
reflect appropriate release time for the delegated activities.
(1)
In a program with no more than fifty students, there shall be
allotted a minimum of twenty-five percent of an FTE for
administration.
cian
administrative duties for one campus shall be related to the number
of students enrolled in the psychiatric technician program at that
campus. The Director may delegate administrative duties and
reflect appropriate release time for the delegated activities.
(1)
In a program with no more than fifty students, there shall be
allotted a minimum of twenty-five percent of an FTE for
administration.
(2)
In a program with at least fifty-one students but no more than
110 students, there shall be allotted a minimum of fifty
percent of an FTE to administration.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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50
(3)
In a program with at least 111 students but no more than
180 students, there shall be allotted a minimum of seventy-
five percent of an FTE to administration.
(4)
In a program with at least 181 students, there shall be at
least the equivalent of a full FTE position devoted to
administration.
f.
Personnel policies for the faculty of the psychiatric technician
program shall be consistent with the faculty policies for the
controlling body.
g.
There shall be a plan for an ongoing systematic evaluation of all
aspects of the psychiatric technician program with evidence of
implementation which includes student and community input.
h.
Written student policies shall be developed and made available to
all students including, but not limited to, admission, progression and
graduation requirements. These policies shall be consistent with
those of the governing body. The school shall have a written policy
regarding the dismissal of students for scholastic or other reasons
and potential reentry. The program shall adhere to its set policies or
have a rationale for exceptions.
3.
Curriculum
a.
The curriculum shall be developed, implemented, controlled and
evaluated by the faculty within the framework of the philosophy,
purposes and objectives of the psychiatric technician program and
policies of the governing body.
b
smissal of students for scholastic or other reasons
and potential reentry. The program shall adhere to its set policies or
have a rationale for exceptions.
3.
Curriculum
a.
The curriculum shall be developed, implemented, controlled and
evaluated by the faculty within the framework of the philosophy,
purposes and objectives of the psychiatric technician program and
policies of the governing body.
b.
The program outcomes shall identify the expectations for the
students who complete the program and are used to:
(1)
Develop, organize, implement, evaluate and revise the
curriculum.
(2)
Identify objectives for courses.
(3)
Select content related to the care of individuals experiencing
mental and/or developmental disabilities. Program outcomes
shall reflect the current scope of practice and, at a minimum,
shall include 200 clock hours of theory and 200 clock hours
of clinical practice. A psychiatric technician curriculum shall
include, but not be limited to:
(a)
Nursing principles, which shall include, but not be
limited to, learning experiences to develop:
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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51
(i)
An understanding of the principles of mental
and physical health and the maintenance of
health;
(ii)
A knowledge of health services, community
resources and the role of the psychiatric
technician in these health services. The ability
to perform the following functions as required:
(a)
Activities concerned with daily hygiene;
(b)
Activities concerned with prescribed
therapeutic measures with an
understanding of basic principles; and
(c)
Observing the appearance and behavior
of patients and reporting to appropriate
persons.
(iii)
Ability to work with licensed physicians,
professional nurses, dentists, and other
treatment personnel in assisting with nursing
situations;
(b)
For psychiatric technicians working with the mentally
ill, the curriculum shall include, but not be limited to,
fundamentals of psychiatric and mental health nursing
with learning experiences planned to develop the
following:
to appropriate
persons.
(iii)
Ability to work with licensed physicians,
professional nurses, dentists, and other
treatment personnel in assisting with nursing
situations;
(b)
For psychiatric technicians working with the mentally
ill, the curriculum shall include, but not be limited to,
fundamentals of psychiatric and mental health nursing
with learning experiences planned to develop the
following:
(i)
The knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary
to function adequately as a contributing
member of the psychiatric team;
(ii)
Understanding of self and patient relationship;
(iii)
Principles of psychiatric nursing including
social and cultural studies, rehabilitation and
special therapies.
(c)
For psychiatric technicians working with the
developmentally disabled, the curriculum shall
include, but not be limited to:
(i)
Intellectual Developmental Disability theory
and practice;
(ii)
Human development; and
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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52
(iii)
Behavior management.
(4)
The number of faculty shall be determined by size of
enrollment, number of classes admitted per year, number of
agencies utilized for clinical instruction and methods of
instruction.
(5)
Faculty-student ratio for clinical instruction should not
exceed a 1:10 ratio.
c.
The implementation of the curriculum shall include:
(1)
Development of outlines that identify essential aspects of
each course.
(2)
Utilization of a variety of teaching methods.
(3)
Development and maintenance of an environment consistent
with the philosophy and purposes of the program.
(4)
Facility and resource coordination.
d.
The organizational plan of the curriculum shall provide for time
periods (terms, semesters, quarters) and identified sequencing of
courses.
e.
Evaluation of the curriculum shall include a plan for ongoing
systematic assessment of student achievement.
4.
Faculty
a.
Only qualified nurse faculty shall teach basic nursing concepts.
b.
All nursing faculty shall:
)
Facility and resource coordination.
d.
The organizational plan of the curriculum shall provide for time
periods (terms, semesters, quarters) and identified sequencing of
courses.
e.
Evaluation of the curriculum shall include a plan for ongoing
systematic assessment of student achievement.
4.
Faculty
a.
Only qualified nurse faculty shall teach basic nursing concepts.
b.
All nursing faculty shall:
(1)
Hold a current license in good standing to practice as a
Registered Nurse in Colorado.
(2)
Have a minimum of one year of experience as a Registered
Nurse in psychiatric nursing if teaching in a program
preparing technicians to care for the mentally ill or in nursing
care of the developmentally disabled if teaching in a program
preparing technicians to care for the developmentally
disabled.
(3)
The Director of the psychiatric technician program, in
addition to Section (E)(4), shall have:
(a)
A minimum of a baccalaureate degree in nursing.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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53
(b)
One years' teaching experience in a health related
program.
c.
Non-nurse faculty shall have appropriate academic and
professional preparation and experience in their field of teaching.
5.
Resources and facilities:
a.
The Director shall be responsible for recommending and/or
obtaining resources and facilities in accord with the program's
philosophy and objectives as well as the policies of the governing
body.
(1)
Including:
(a)
Classrooms, laboratories, conference rooms, and
equipment for utilizing a variety of teaching methods.
(b)
Library resources.
(c)
Health care facilities sufficient to achieve the
objectives of the program, with consideration given to:
(i)
Quality of nursing service, including
organization and nursing care.
(ii)
Administrative support.
(iii)
Number of programs and students using the
facility.
(iv)
Daily average census.
ies, conference rooms, and
equipment for utilizing a variety of teaching methods.
(b)
Library resources.
(c)
Health care facilities sufficient to achieve the
objectives of the program, with consideration given to:
(i)
Quality of nursing service, including
organization and nursing care.
(ii)
Administrative support.
(iii)
Number of programs and students using the
facility.
(iv)
Daily average census.
(v)
Licensure or approval by the appropriate
authorities.
6.
An approved psychiatric technician training program must maintain an
average minimum pass rate for first-time test takers of at least sixty-five
percent during any eight quarter period. First-time test takers are those
individuals that test for the first time within one year of completion from a
Board approved psychiatric technician program.
F.
CONTINUED APPROVAL
1.
Regular periodic surveys for continued approval may be conducted by the
Board on a date mutually acceptable to the Board and the program.
2.
Approval of a program shall be continued by the Board provided the
standards of the Board are met as set forth in this Rule.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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54
3.
The Board's action regarding program review shall be sent to the
governing body and the Director of the program with recommendations, if
indicated.
4.
The school may be visited at times other than the regularly scheduled
survey visit, if deemed necessary by the Board.
5.
Major program revisions shall be reported to the Board for approval Major
program revision shall be defined to include, but not be limited to:
a.
Major changes in program goals,
b.
The number of hours required for successful completion of the
program,
c.
Change in required clinical practice hours.
d.
Either an increase or decrease of twenty-five percent or greater in
student numbers admitted, types of students, admission times and
progression options.
G.
WITHDRAWAL OF APPROVAL
1
evision shall be defined to include, but not be limited to:
a.
Major changes in program goals,
b.
The number of hours required for successful completion of the
program,
c.
Change in required clinical practice hours.
d.
Either an increase or decrease of twenty-five percent or greater in
student numbers admitted, types of students, admission times and
progression options.
G.
WITHDRAWAL OF APPROVAL
1.
The governing body and the Director of the program shall be notified in
writing if the requirements of the statute and the standards set forth in this
Rule are not fulfilled. Deficiencies shall be specified in the written
communication.
2.
The program shall have thirty days from the date of the letter to respond to
deficiencies. Such response would be reviewed by the Board and a
determination made to continue approval or withdraw approval.
3.
The governing body and the Director shall be advised that requirements
must be met within a year from the date of service of the notice of
deficiencies at which time another survey visit shall be made to confirm
the corrections or remaining deficiencies.
4.
Conditional approval shall be given for the year to allow the identified
deficiencies to be corrected.
5.
Status reports regarding progress in meeting the identified deficiencies
shall be submitted to the Board at each regularly scheduled Board
meeting during the year of conditional approval.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
corrections or remaining deficiencies.
4.
Conditional approval shall be given for the year to allow the identified
deficiencies to be corrected.
5.
Status reports regarding progress in meeting the identified deficiencies
shall be submitted to the Board at each regularly scheduled Board
meeting during the year of conditional approval.
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55
6.
At any time during the year, the program Director may request restoration
to full approval if the program demonstrates correction of the deficiencies.
The decision to restore full accreditation rests solely with the Board. If full
approval is not restored, the original time period for conditional approval is
still retained.
7.
At any time during conditional approval, the Board staff shall be available
for consultation with the program.
8.
All students enrolled during the conditional approval must be informed in
writing by the school that they shall not be eligible to take the licensure
examination if the program loses its approval.
9.
Approval of the program shall be withdrawn by the Board if the identified
deficiencies are not corrected as confirmed on a survey visit within the one
year period.
10.
The program may appeal the decision to withdraw approval by requesting
a hearing within sixty days of service of the notice to withdraw.
11.
Such a hearing shall be heard before the Board subject to the provisions
of the Administrative Procedures Act and the Nurse and Nurse Aide
Practice Act regarding the conducting of hearings.
H.
CLOSING OF PROGRAMS
1.
Programs desiring to close shall notify the Board of such intention.
2.
If the program is closed, the controlling agency shall be responsible for the
permanent safekeeping of the student transcripts.
I.
CHANGE OF CONTROL
1.
When a program changes administrative control, the new authority shall
notify the Board.
Revised: July 26, 2017
1.7
INITIAL DECISIONS AND RELATED MATTERS [Repealed eff. 03/17/2011]
A
ms desiring to close shall notify the Board of such intention.
2.
If the program is closed, the controlling agency shall be responsible for the
permanent safekeeping of the student transcripts.
I.
CHANGE OF CONTROL
1.
When a program changes administrative control, the new authority shall
notify the Board.
Revised: July 26, 2017
1.7
INITIAL DECISIONS AND RELATED MATTERS [Repealed eff. 03/17/2011]
A.
BASIS: The authority for the promulgation of these rules and regulations by the
State Board of Nursing is set forth in sections 12-20-204(1), 12-255-107(1)(j),
and 12-255-119(1)(c) and (d), C.R.S.
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56
B.
PURPOSE: The purpose of the deletion of Rule 1.7, Initial Decisions and Related
Matters, is to remove the Initial Decision rules. The Rules are no longer
necessary because the Division of Professions and Occupations is implementing
a new policy whereby Initial Decisions are handled. In the future, the Division of
Professions and Occupations will generally follow procedures set forth in
individual organic statutes and the Administrative Procedures Act governing
administrative procedures.
1.8
DECLARATORY ORDERS
General Authority C.R.S. 24-4-105(11)
A.
STATEMENT OF BASIS AND PURPOSE
These Rules are adopted pursuant to section 24-4-105(11), C.R.S., in order to
provide for a procedure for entertaining requests for declaratory orders to
terminate controversies or to remove uncertainties with regard to the applicability
of statutory provisions or rules or orders of the Nursing Board to persons defined
in the rules.
B.
Any person may petition the Board for a declaratory order to terminate
controversies or to remove uncertainties as to the applicability to the petitioner of
any statutory provision or of any rule or order to the Board.
C.
The Board will determine, in its discretion and without notice to petitioner,
whether to rule upon any such petition
ders of the Nursing Board to persons defined
in the rules.
B.
Any person may petition the Board for a declaratory order to terminate
controversies or to remove uncertainties as to the applicability to the petitioner of
any statutory provision or of any rule or order to the Board.
C.
The Board will determine, in its discretion and without notice to petitioner,
whether to rule upon any such petition. If the Board determines that it will not rule
upon such a petition, the Board shall promptly notify the petitioner of its action
and state the reasons for such decision. Any of the following grounds, among
others, may be sufficient reason to refuse to entertain a petition:
1.
Failure to comply with Section (C) of Rule 1.8.
2.
A ruling on the petition will not terminate the controversy nor remove
uncertainties as to the applicability to petitioner of any statutory provision
or rule or order of the Board.
3.
The petition involves any subject, question or issue which is the subject of,
or is involved in, a matter (including a hearing, investigation or complaint)
currently pending before the Board, particularly, but not limited to, any
such matter directly involving the petitioner.
4.
The petition seeks a ruling on a moot or hypothetical question, or will
result in an advisory ruling or opinion, having no direct applicability to
petitioner.
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5.
Petitioner has some other adequate legal remedy, other than an action for
declaratory relief pursuant to C.R.C.P. 57, which will terminate the
controversy or remove any uncertainty concerning applicability of the
statute, rule or order in question.
D.
Any petition filed pursuant to this rule shall set forth the following:
1.
The name and address of the petitioner; whether the petitioner is licensed
by the Board as an R.N. or L.P.N. or L.P.T., or CM, or employs such
licensees.
2.
The statute, rule or order to which the petition relates.
3
controversy or remove any uncertainty concerning applicability of the
statute, rule or order in question.
D.
Any petition filed pursuant to this rule shall set forth the following:
1.
The name and address of the petitioner; whether the petitioner is licensed
by the Board as an R.N. or L.P.N. or L.P.T., or CM, or employs such
licensees.
2.
The statute, rule or order to which the petition relates.
3.
A concise statement of all of the facts necessary to show the nature of the
controversy or uncertainty and the manner in which the statute, rule or
order in question applies or potentially applies to the petitioner. Petitioner
may also include a concise statement of the legal authorities upon which
petitioner relies.
4.
A concise statement of the specific declaratory order sought by petitioner.
E.
If the Board determines that it will rule on the petition, the following procedures
shall apply:
1.
The Board may rule upon the petition without holding an evidentiary
hearing. In such a case:
a.
Any ruling of the Board will apply only to the extent of the facts
presented in the petition and in any clarifying information submitted
in writing to the Board.
b.
The Board may order the petitioner to file a written clarification of
factual matters, a written brief, memorandum or statement of
position.
c.
The Board may set the petition, upon due notice to petitioner, for a
non-evidentiary hearing.
d.
The Board may dispose of the petition on the sole basis of the
matters set forth in the petition.
e.
The Board may take administrative notice of commonly known facts
within its expertise or contained in its records and consider such
facts in its disposition of the petition.
f.
If the Board rules upon the petition without a hearing, it shall
promptly notify the petitioner of its decision.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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of the
matters set forth in the petition.
e.
The Board may take administrative notice of commonly known facts
within its expertise or contained in its records and consider such
facts in its disposition of the petition.
f.
If the Board rules upon the petition without a hearing, it shall
promptly notify the petitioner of its decision.
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58
2.
The Board may, in its discretion, set the petition for an evidentiary hearing,
conducted in conformance with section 24-4-105, C.R.S., upon due notice
to petitioner, for the purpose of obtaining additional facts of information or
to determine the truth of any facts set forth in the petition. The notice to
the petitioner setting such hearing shall set forth, to the extent known, the
factual or other matters into which the Board intends to inquire. For the
purpose of such a hearing, the petitioner shall have the burden of proving
all of the facts stated in the petition, all of the facts necessary to show the
nature of the controversy or uncertainty and the manner in which the
statute, rule or order in question applies or potentially applies to the
petitioner and any other facts the petitioner desires to consider.
F.
The parties to any proceeding pursuant to this Rule shall be the Board and the
petitioner. Any other person may seek leave of the Board to intervene will be
granted at the sole discretion of the Board. A petition to intervene shall set forth
the same matters as required by Section (C) of Rule 1.8. Any reference to a
“petitioner” in this Rule also refers to any person who has been granted leave to
intervene by the Board.
1.9
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE IN
RELATION TO IV THERAPY
A.
BASIS: The Rules contained in this Rule 1.9 are adopted pursuant to authority
granted the Board by sections 12-255-101 to 134, C.R.S., as amended, and
specifically pursuant to authority granted in section 12-255-107(1)(e), C.R.S., as
amended.
B
to any person who has been granted leave to
intervene by the Board.
1.9
RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE IN
RELATION TO IV THERAPY
A.
BASIS: The Rules contained in this Rule 1.9 are adopted pursuant to authority
granted the Board by sections 12-255-101 to 134, C.R.S., as amended, and
specifically pursuant to authority granted in section 12-255-107(1)(e), C.R.S., as
amended.
B.
PURPOSE: These Rules are adopted to set forth the guidelines for the Licensed
Practical Nurse (LPN) related to the individual’s role in intravenous therapy and
venous blood sampling. The patient care responsibilities of LPNs should be
within the parameters of their educational preparation and their demonstrated
abilities. Therefore, LPNs and their supervisors have a joint responsibility to
assure that LPNs practice within the scope of their educational basis and
demonstrated abilities.
C.
DEFINITIONS:
For the purposes of Rule 1.9, the following terms have the indicated
meaning:
1.
“Adult Client” is an individual whose chronological age is thirteen years or
older.
2.
“Board” is the State Board of Nursing.
3.
“Direct Injection” is the administration of a drug directly into the Venous
Access Device or through the proximal port on a continuous infusion set.
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59
4.
“Intravenous Fluids” means fluids containing one or more of the following
elements: dextrose 5%; normal saline; lactated ringers; sodium chloride
0.45%; or sodium chloride 0.2%.
5.
“Peripheral Veins” are the veins not in the chest, neck or abdomen.
6.
“Pre-mixed” means IV solution prepared and labeled by an authorized
licensed professional or manufacturer. Manufacturer prepared solutions
include those closed systems requiring activation to administer.
7.
“Supervision” means a professional nurse, physician, dentist, or podiatrist
is physically present or accessible by some form of telecommunication.
8.
Types of “Venous Access Devices”:
a.
Peripheral catheters
ans IV solution prepared and labeled by an authorized
licensed professional or manufacturer. Manufacturer prepared solutions
include those closed systems requiring activation to administer.
7.
“Supervision” means a professional nurse, physician, dentist, or podiatrist
is physically present or accessible by some form of telecommunication.
8.
Types of “Venous Access Devices”:
a.
Peripheral catheters
(1)
“Peripheral short catheter” is a Venous Access Device less
than 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length.
(2)
“Peripheral midline catheter” means a peripherally inserted
catheter whose tip terminates no further than the axilla and
is between 3 inches and 8 inches (7.5 cm and 20 cm) in
length.
b.
Central catheters
(1)
“PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter)” means an IV
catheter whose tip terminates in the superior vena cava and
is confirmed by chest x-ray.
(2)
“Central catheter” means an IV catheter whose tip
terminates in the superior vena cava and may be either
tunneled, implanted, or percutaneously inserted, and is
confirmed by chest x-ray.
D.
SCOPE OF PRACTICE OF THE LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE IN
RELATION TO IV THERAPY
1.
The patient care responsibilities of the LPN should be within the
parameters of their educational preparation and their demonstrated
abilities.
2.
An LPN may perform the following procedures under the Supervision of a
professional nurse, physician, dentist, or podiatrist:
a.
Calculate and observe flow rate of intravenous infusions;
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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State Board of Nursing
.
The patient care responsibilities of the LPN should be within the
parameters of their educational preparation and their demonstrated
abilities.
2.
An LPN may perform the following procedures under the Supervision of a
professional nurse, physician, dentist, or podiatrist:
a.
Calculate and observe flow rate of intravenous infusions;
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
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60
b.
Stop the flow of Intravenous Fluids, as defined in Sections (C)(5)
and (C)(10) of Rule 1.9;
c.
Remove peripheral short catheter for Adult Clients;
d.
Report and document observations and procedures relating to
intravenous infusion and insertion sites;
e.
Utilize Peripheral Veins for intravenous access with a peripheral
short catheter;
f.
Perform blood sampling from a peripheral vein or through a central
Venous Access Device using a syringe or vacutainer device.
g.
Reconstitute IV antibiotics following pharmacy instructions and/or
organizational
policies.
h.
Administer the following:
(1)
Intravenous Fluids through Venous Access Devices;
(2)
Pre-mixed Intravenous Fluids containing electrolytes and
vitamins;
(3)
Pre-mixed antibiotic solutions via Venous Access Devices
delivered per labeled instructions by gravity flow, pump or
Direct Injection for a period of time consisting of greater than
five minutes in duration; and/or
(4)
The first dose of IV antibiotic therapy under the observation
of a professional nurse, physician, podiatrist, or dentist who
is present in the same patient care area.
i.
Regulate the prescribed flow rate of the Intravenous Fluids;
j.
Monitor the systemic effects of intravenous therapy;
k.
Flush Venous Access Devices designed to maintain venous
patency with normal saline or a sub-therapeutic dosage of heparin;
l.
Change dressings and/or caps to Venous Access Devices; and/or
m.
Switch from continuous infusion of Intravenous Fluid to
heparin/saline lock
E.
OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF PRACTICE FOR LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES
IN RELATION TO IV THERAPY
systemic effects of intravenous therapy;
k.
Flush Venous Access Devices designed to maintain venous
patency with normal saline or a sub-therapeutic dosage of heparin;
l.
Change dressings and/or caps to Venous Access Devices; and/or
m.
Switch from continuous infusion of Intravenous Fluid to
heparin/saline lock
E.
OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF PRACTICE FOR LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES
IN RELATION TO IV THERAPY
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61
1.
A licensed practical nurse may not perform any of the following
procedures as they are outside the LPN’s scope of practice:
a.
Administration of IV medications, except as allowed in Section
(D)(2)(g) of Rule 1.9;
b.
Access or de-access implanted central venous access ports;
c.
Insertion of a PICC line or a peripheral midline catheter;
d.
Repair of Venous Access Devices;
e.
Remove a central venous access catheter;
f.
Administration of parenteral nutrition solutions;
g.
Administration of blood and blood products;
h.
Administration of chemotherapy intravenous medications/solutions;
i.
Administration of thrombolytic agent to declot a catheter; and/or
j.
Direct Injection of any IV medication for a period of time consisting
of five minutes or less in duration.
Adopted April 22, 2009
Revised April 26, 2012
Effective July 1, 2012
1.10 RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR CERTIFICATION AS A NURSE AIDE
A.
BASIS: The authority for the promulgation of these rules and regulations by the
State Board of Nursing (“Board”) specifically in relation to sections 12-255-107,
12-255-202, 12-255-203, 12-255-204, 12-255-205, and 12-255-206, C.R.S.; and
as set forth in sections 12-20-202(3), 12-20-204(1), 12-255-107(1)(j), 12-255-
206, C.R.S.
B.
PURPOSE: The Rules are adopted to specify procedures used in obtaining and
maintaining nurse aide certification.
C.
DEFINITIONS
1.
“Board” is the State Board of Nursing.
2
(“Board”) specifically in relation to sections 12-255-107,
12-255-202, 12-255-203, 12-255-204, 12-255-205, and 12-255-206, C.R.S.; and
as set forth in sections 12-20-202(3), 12-20-204(1), 12-255-107(1)(j), 12-255-
206, C.R.S.
B.
PURPOSE: The Rules are adopted to specify procedures used in obtaining and
maintaining nurse aide certification.
C.
DEFINITIONS
1.
“Board” is the State Board of Nursing.
2.
“Nurse aide training program” is a course of study which is approved by
the Colorado State Board of Nursing or the appropriate authority in
another state or territory of the United States that meets the requirements
of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
62
3.
“Competency evaluation” is the evaluation instrument approved by the
Board consisting of both a written and a manual skills component.
4.
“Competence” is the Certified Nurse Aide’s (CNA) ability to perform those
tasks included in the expanded scope of practice as set forth in Section
(I)(3) of Rule 1.10, with reasonable skill and safety to a client, as deemed
by the Professional Nurse (RN).
5.
“Continued Competence” is the CNA’s ability to perform those tasks
included in the expanded scope of practice as set forth in Section (I)(3) of
Rule 1.10, with reasonable skill and safety to a client, as deemed by the
RN’s direct observation of the CNA’s clinical performance of the task to
occur not less than annually after initially being deemed competent.
6.
“Deemed Competent” is the RN’s determination that the CNA is
competent to perform the task with reasonable skill and safety to a client.
7.
“Executive Officer” is the chief officer employed pursuant to section 12-
255-106, C.R.S. The Executive Officer has been delegated authority to
administer examinations, issue certificates by endorsement and
examination, and to renew certificates.
8
mpetent.
6.
“Deemed Competent” is the RN’s determination that the CNA is
competent to perform the task with reasonable skill and safety to a client.
7.
“Executive Officer” is the chief officer employed pursuant to section 12-
255-106, C.R.S. The Executive Officer has been delegated authority to
administer examinations, issue certificates by endorsement and
examination, and to renew certificates.
8.
“Endorsement” is the process of obtaining certification as a nurse aide by
the Board upon the Board's determination that the applicant is certified to
practice as a nurse aide by another state or territory of the United States
with requirements that are essentially similar to the requirements of
Colorado.
9.
“Expanded Scope of Practice” includes those tasks set forth in section 12-
255-206(1)(a),(b), and (c), C.R.S., for which the CNA has been deemed
by the RN to be competent to perform with reasonable skill and safety to a
client.
D.
CERTIFICATION BY EXAMINATION
1.
The Board will review and may accept a Competency evaluation for nurse
aides.
2.
The contract for the use of the Competency evaluation will be approved by
the Executive Officer or designee in the absence of the Executive Officer.
3.
The Competency evaluation is administered at least quarterly. Notification
of any applicable administration dates, deadlines, and sites will be sent to
all active nurse aide training programs in the state.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
se of the Competency evaluation will be approved by
the Executive Officer or designee in the absence of the Executive Officer.
3.
The Competency evaluation is administered at least quarterly. Notification
of any applicable administration dates, deadlines, and sites will be sent to
all active nurse aide training programs in the state.
CODE OF COLORADO REGULATIONS
3 CCR 716-1
State Board of Nursing
63
4.
In the event that applicant examination materials are lost or destroyed
through circumstances beyond the control of the Board, the applicant will
be required to retake the Competency evaluation in order to meet
requirements for certification.
5.
Applicants are informed in writing regarding the results of the Competency
evaluation.
6.
The Board releases Competency evaluation results only to the applicant
or the nurse aide with written authorization from the applicant or nurse
aide.
7.
Verified graduates from nurse aide training programs are eligible to take
the Competency evaluation.
8.
Practical and professional nursing education programs and psychiatric
technician training programs in the United States and its territories are
deemed to be nurse aide training programs provided the program has
been approved by the appropriate agency of the state/territory in which the
program is located. Students of such programs are eligible to take the
Competency evaluation provided the requirements of Section (D)(11) of
Rule 1.10 are met and they have successfully completed at least one of
the following:
a.
Five semester credit hours, or its equivalent, of nursing courses
that include the content required under Rule 1.11 for Approval of
Nurse Aide Training Program
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