VOLUME LV - No. I
January 2024
OF
In this Issue: BON Seeks Stakeholder Feedback for Strategic Planning
Board of Nursing Seeks Feedback for Strategic Planning
The Texas Board of Nursing BOARD MEMBERS Officers
During the next few months, the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) will publish instructions for state agencies to use in preparing their Strategic Plan for submission to the Texas Legislature in June 2024. Once the instructions are published, the Board of Nursing (BON or Board) will receive guidance concerning specific questions that must be asked of stakeholders concerning the quality of customer service received from the Board. The BON will then conduct a survey using the questions provided by the LBB. The Board will link the survey through the home page of the agency website. An announcement of when the survey goes live will be made on the BON Facebook page and through other communications from the Board. Please take time to complete the survey when it is launched. Your feedback will provide important information and insights on areas where the agency is doing well or where improvement is needed. A summary of the survey results will be presented to the Board at the July 2024 Board Meeting and will be posted on the agency website. Your feedback is important and the information gathered will be reviewed by all departments to help improve the quality of service provided by the agency.
Announcement: New NLC Rule
Kathy Shipp, MSN, APRN, FNP President, representing Advanced Practice Nursing Lubbock Allison Porter-Edwards, DrPH, MS, RN, CNE, FAAN Vice-President, representing BSN Education Bellaire
Members Kathy Boswell, MS, RN representing ADN Education Mineral Wells Daryl Chambers, BBA representing Consumers Grand Prairie Laura Disque, MSN, RN, CGRN representing RN Practice Edinburg Carol Kay Hawkins-Garcia, BSN, RN representing RN Practice San Antonio Mazie M. Jamison, BA, MA representing Consumers Dallas Kenneth D. "Ken" Johnson, RN representing LVN Education San Angelo Kathy Leader-Horn, LVN representing LVN Practice Granbury Dru Riddle, PhD, APRN, CRNA representing APRN Practice Fort Worth
Starting January 2, 2024, a new NLC rule will be in effect. Nurses relocating to another compact state have 60 days from the time they move to apply for a new license by endorsement in a new primary state of residence. The new rule (effective beginning January 2, 2024) reads:
Melissa D. Schat, LVN representing LVN Practice Granbury Rickey "Rick" Williams, AA representing Consumers Killeen Kimberly L. "Kim” Wright, LVN representing LVN Practice Big Spring Executive Director Kristin K. Benton, DNP, RN
402(2) A multistate licensee who changes primary state of residence to another party state shall apply for a multistate license in the new party state within 60 days.
The Texas Board of Nursing Bulletin is the official publication of the Texas Board of Nursing and is published four times a year: January, April, July, and October.
Helpful FAQs and a brief video about the new rule are available online.
Published by: TEXAS BOARD OF NURSING VOLUME LV - No. I
Nurses can enroll at no cost in Nursys eNotify to receive notifications related to license renewals at www.nursys.com.
Publication Office: 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 10-200 Austin, Texas 78701-3944 Phone: (512) 305-7400 Fax: (512) 305-7401 Publication Date: 1/15/2024
For more information, visit www.nlc.gov or email nursecompact@ncsbn. org. 2
Summary of Actions A regular meeting of the Board of Nursing was heldOctober 19, 2023, in Austin. The following is a summary of Board actions taken during this meeting.
In the November 24, 2023, edition of the Texas Register, the Board of Nursing (BON or Board) published final approved amendments to 22 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter 214, relating to Vocational Nursing Education, and to 22 TAC Chapter 215, relating to Professional Nursing Education. The Board had previously considered the proposed amendments at its regularly scheduled April 2023 meeting and published the proposed rules previously in the June 30, 2023, issue of the Texas Register for public comment. The new amendments correct outdated references, provide clarifying and editorial changes, and simplify the existing numbering system for the Board’s educational guidelines, contained in Chapter 214, Vocational Nursing Education and Chapter 215, relating to Professional Nursing Educa-
tion. Comments were received to the proposed amendments and were addressed in the November 24, 2023, issue of the Texas Register at https:// www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/ November242023/Adopted%20 Rules/22.EXAMINING%20BOARDS. html#104 Amendments to 22 TAC §§214.2 - 214.10, 214.12 and 214.13; and 22 TAC §§215.2 - 215.10, 215.12 and 215.13 were adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the June 30, 2023, issue of the Texas Register (48 TexReg 3481). The amendments were effective on November 30, 2023. The BON proposed new amendments to 22 TAC §217.5 relating to Temporary License and Endorsement and those proposed changes were published in the December 15, 2023,
edition of the Texas Register. Senate Bill 422, passed during the 88th Regular Legislative Session, which amended Section §55.0041 of the Texas Occupations Code and extended occupational licensing reciprocity to include military service members who are licensed in another state. The bill added military service members as persons for whom the state will recognize an out-of-state business or occupational license for a period not to exceed three years and requires that a state agency that issues business or occupational licenses determine within a 30-day period whether the jurisdiction of licensure for a military service member or military spouse applying for licensure pursuant to §55.0041. The revised law also provides that a military spouse licensed pursuant to §55.0041 may continued on page 8
Nursing Education Actions - October 2023 Board Meeting Reviewed Reports:
•
Five-Year Report on New Nursing Programs and Currently Active Proposals
Blinn College in Brenham – VN Program
•
Kilgore College in Kilgore – ADN Program
Status Report on Programs with Sanctions
•
Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen – VN Program
Report on Communication Activities with Nursing Education Programs
•
Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi – Baccalaureate Degree Nursing (BSN) Program
Approved Reports of Survey Findings: •
•
Navarro College at Corsicana, Mexia, and Waxahachie – Vocational Nursing (VN) Program Ranger College in Early – VN and Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Programs
•
Howard Payne University in Brownwood – BSN Program
Approved Notification of Closure of Programs: •
St. Philip’s College in New Braunfels – VN Program 3
Approved Proposal to Establish an Apprenticeship Track: •
Vernon College in Vernon – ADN Program
Accepted Notification of Change in Administration: •
Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches – BSN Program
Approved Proposal to Establish a New Nursing Education Program: •
Hallmark University in San Antonio - VN Program
National Academy of Medicine Action Collaborative on Combatting Substance Use and Opioid Crises The National Academy of Medicine (NAM) estimates that 260 Americans die every day as a result of drug related overdoses. To better address this lethal public health challenge, the NAM has created the Action Collaborative on Combatting Substance Use and Opioid Crises. The Collaborative is comprised of partners from more than 80 organizations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors whose goal is to address critical issues caused by addiction. The Action Collaborative’s goals are: * * *
Identify and raise the visibility of complex challenges, outstanding research gaps and needs of the substance use crisis that require a collective, multi-sectoral response; Elevate and accelerate evidence-based, multi-sectoral, and interprofessional solutions to improve outcomes for those affected by the substance use crisis; and Catalyze action on shared priorities and solutions to help overcome the crisis and improve outcomes for all.
The core focus areas of the Action Collaborative are: Education, Practice, and Health Systems: Fostering interprofessional collaboration, learning leadership, and creativity that enables collective action to embed the continuous improvement of substance use care within a national learning health system. Prevention, Data, and Research: Advancing health equity through the continuum of prevention and data informed research and action. Substance Use Disorder Framework: Developing an equity-driven framework which will define multi-level actions needed to catalyze a systems response to the evolving substance use crisis. Learn more at nam.edu/substanceusesolutions
Poison Control and Prevention The Texas Nursing Practice Act (NPA) requires the Board of Nursing to provide license holders with information regarding the services provided by poison control centers (Sec. 301.1582). According to the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), there are 55 poison centers in the US. The Texas Poison Center Network (TPCN) is made up of six regional poison centers. These poison centers provide the following services: • • • • •
Help with a poisoning emergency, which can often be solved over the phone rather than calling 911 or going to the emergency room; Advice to healthcare professionals and the general public; Poison prevention and treatment education materials; Real-time data collection that aids in detecting public health emergencies; and Free and confidential help.
Service is available throughout the entire US and many territories, along with interpretation services in over 100 languages. In case of a poison emergency, contact poison control toll-free at 1-800-222-1222 to be routed to the poison center designated to serve your area. Help is available 24/7. 4
Overview of the DSHS School Health Program
Our Mission
The DSHS School Health Program is an important resource for nurses on school health issues. Dianna Pierson is the School Health Nurse Team Lead and the DSHS School Nurse Consultant. Her expertise on school health issues makes her a valuable resource available to nurses in Texas. Dianna may be contacted by phone, 512-413-9089, or email, dianna.pierson@dshs.texas.gov.
The Texas School Health Program’s mission is to support education and public health partners with impacting school health issues using the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model. While the Texas School Health Program does not regulate schools, we do provide school health leadership, support, and guidance to Texas school districts. This includes comprehensive school health and safety issues regarding the WSCC model by: • Maintaining the linkage between the Texas Department of State Health Services and school districts as it relates to health promotion and chronic disease; • Engaging in collaborative efforts with internal and external partners and stakeholders; • Serving as a source of resources and tools in support of school health evidencebased programs, practices, and policies; and • Disseminating timely school health-related information and data.
School Health Program Activities Allergies and Anaphylaxis
In collaboration with the Stock Epinephrine Advisory Committee, the School Health Program has resources and tools for school leaders for the care of students with allergies and anaphylaxis such as the Guidelines for the Care of Students with Food Allergies. The School Health Program is also the entity for reporting unassigned epinephrine auto-injectors and asthma medication to the DSHS Commissioner.
Friday Beat
The Friday Beat is a bi-weekly e-newsletter that aligns with the 10 components of the WSCC model. It connects people interested in school health to training, funding sources, and resources.
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Overview of the DSHS School Health Program School Health Program Activities, continued Texas Guide to School Health Services
Texas School Health Advisory Committee (TSHAC)
Professional School Nursing
Stock Epinephrine Advisory Committee (SEAC)
The School Health Program provides administrative support for the TSHAC. TSHAC assists the Department of State Health Services to support and coordinate school health programs and school health services. It also provides leadership to identify and disseminate school health best practices and resources for school policymakers.
This is a web-based guide that is divided into eight sections to help with navigation. The guide provides resources for school administrators, school nurses, teachers and other staff members to develop, implement, and evaluate school health programs. Resources include information on school health services and programs to assist school health personnel. This includes information on the resources, regulations, laws or other requirements of the practice and profession of nursing with a focus on the school setting.
The School Health Program provides administrative support for the SEAC. SEAC examines and reviews the administration of epinephrine autoinjectors to a person experiencing an anaphylactic reaction on a school campus.
Funding Opportunities
The School Health Program awards funds to Texas schools for projects that improve or promote health. The projects should engage students, their families, and the community. More information about funding opportunities can be found on the School Health Program Grants and Awards Program webpage.
School Health Advisory Councils (SHAC) In collaboration with TSHAC, the School Health Program provides school staff and community members basic information about the value of SHACs to create a healthy school environment for students including the SHAC Guide.
dshs.texas.gov/texas-school-health 6
New BON Team Member Introductions Elise McDermott, MSN, RN, Named as Director of Nursing
Elise McDermott, MSN, RN, Director of Nursing
Elise McDermott, MSN, RN, was selected as the Board’s Director of Nursing, effective September 1, 2023. During her time working for the Board over the past seven years, Ms. McDermott has been a Nursing Consultant for Practice and a Team Lead for Nursing Practice prior to becoming Director. In this role, Ms. McDermott leads policy development and regulatory activities associated with pre-licensure nursing education programs, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure operations, and standards of nursing practice in Texas. Prior to her work with the Board, Ms. McDermott practiced with the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance, as well as in perioperative, and labor and delivery nursing. She holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Biomedical Science and Nursing, and a Master of Science degree in Nursing Education from Texas A&M University. Her areas of regulatory expertise include nursing jurisprudence and ethics, and nursing peer review. She has authored several articles on various nursing practice topics for the Board’s quarterly Bulletin and co-authored an article on peer review evaluation of nursing practice breakdown in the Journal of Nursing Regulation. She has served and continues to serve as an expert witness at the State Office of Administrative Hearings on the Board’s rules and regulations pertaining to nursing practice. She has also served two terms on the NCLEX Item Review Subcommittee of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Hemant Makan, BA, Selected as Director of Operations Hemant Makan, BA, was named as the Board’s Director of Operations, effective September 12, 2023. Mr. Makan has over 28 years of experience serving the State of Texas in a variety of roles. He was previously the Deputy Executive Director for Administrative Services at the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). There, he oversaw TDLR’s Financial Services Division, Office of Strategic Communication, Asset and Fleet Management, Advisory Boards Team, and Anti-Trafficking Unit, as well as the agency’s Emergency Response Operations. His previous positions include Director of Administrative Services and Licensing for the Texas State Board of Pharmacy, and Executive Director of the Texas State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners. Hemant earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin with a Minor in German. Hemant Makan, BA, Director of Operations
Abhinawa Ghimire Named as New Information Technology (IT) Manager Abhinawa Ghimire was selected as the new IT Manager for the Texas Board of Nursing on October 1, 2023. Abhinawa has been working at the Board of Nursing IT Department since July of 2022 as a Systems Analyst, and most recently served as the IT Lead. His previous employers before coming to the Board of Nursing include the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and Vander Bend Manufacturing in San Jose, California. He holds a Master's Degree in Data Communications Systems from Brunel University in London, and a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Kathmandu University in Nepal.
Abhinawa Ghimire, MS, IT Manager 7
Advanced Practice Nursing Advisory Committee Update The Advanced Practice Nursing Advisory Committee (APNAC) met on December 15, 2023, at the George H. W. Bush Building in Austin to consider the development of tools to assist Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in determining whether a particular patient care activity is within their scope of practice. The committee also discussed amendments to the Texas Board of Nursing's (Board’s) guideline for determining APRN scope of practice. The committee’s recommendations will be presented to the Board at its January 2024 meeting. The date for the next meeting has not been determined. This information will be available on the Board’s website when a new charge has been issued and a
Summary of Actions - cont. from page 3 retain the license for the full threeyear period notwithstanding a divorce or similar event affecting the license holder’s status as a spouse. The proposed rules seek to implement the requirements of SB 422. The earliest possible adoption date for proposed amendments to 22 TAC §217.5 is January 14, 2024. In the December 22, 2023, edition of the Texas Register, the Board published proposed new §213.36, relating to Alleged Standard of Care Violations by Advanced Practice Registered Nurses and new §213.37, relating to Disclosure of Expert Reviewer’s Report. During the 88th Legislative Session, the Texas Legislature enacted SB 1343 which requires that complaints alleging a standard-of-care violation by an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) be reviewed by an expert reviewer, appointed by the Board, who is an APRN practicing in the same advanced practice role and with the same population focus as the APRN who is the subject of the complaint. The bill further requires that the appointed expert reviewer determine whether the APRN violated the standard-of-care applicable to the circumstances of the allegation, record the expert reviewer’s conclusions in a report, and submit the report to the Board. Before initiating informal proceedings involving the APRN, the Board must provide notice of the
proceedings along with a deidentified copy of the expert reviewer’s report. The proposed rule sections implement these statutory requirements. The earliest possible date of adoption of new §213.36 and §213.37 is January 21, 2024. The BON also proposed new 22 TAC §214.14 and 22 TAC §215.14, relating to use of vendor created standardized examinations by a school of nursing in a manner that may deny students graduation and opportunity to take the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) licensure exam. In 2017, the BON issued the Board Education Guideline 3.7.4.a in response to numerous reports and questions from students, parents, and policymakers about the use of vendor-created standardized examinations, especially when these exams are used to deny students the opportunity to take the NCLEX licensure exam. Many vocational and professional nursing education programs had incorporated the use of these exams into the curriculum in various ways. At the time, a survey revealed many nursing programs were using these exams as a graduation requirement or to deny students from receiving their affidavit of graduation, which is required to be submitted to register for the NCLEX licensure exam. Although the Board has no purview over the decision of a nursing program 8
to use these exams, BON staff met with three vendors to clarify the intended purposes for these exams and to assist nursing programs in their use. All vendors agreed standardized examinations are one of many measures of program quality. With input from the vendors, Board Education Guideline 3.7.4.a was drafted which outlines the effective uses of vendor-created standardized exams as an evaluation of student progress and cautions nursing programs from using these exams in a high-stakes manner. The guideline recommends that these exams should not prevent students from progressing or graduating. Six years later, a second survey revealed that despite the BON’s guideline and cautions, some nursing programs disregarded the BON’s recommendation and continue to use vendor-created standardized exams in a high-stakes manner. During the 88th Legislative Session, the Texas Legislature enacted Senate Bill 1429 which authorized the BON to adopt rules to prohibit the use of vendor-created standardized examinations as a graduation requirement or to deny students an affidavit of graduation. The earliest possible date of adoption of new §214.14 and §215.14 is January 21, 2024.
NLC States
41 states have enacted the NLC 41 states have enacted the NLC
WA
ND
MT
SD
ID
WI
UT
AZ
IA
CO
KS OK
NM
NLC States
MO
WV
KY TN
AR
MS AL TX
PA
OH
IN
GUAM
MARIANA ISLANDS (MP)
ME
NH
WY NE
HAWAII
VT
LA
NJ DE
VA
MD
NC GA
RI
DC
SC
VIRGIN ISLANDS
AMERICAN SAMOA (AS)
FL
Partial Implementation
Currently No Action
NLC Enacted, Awaiting Implementation
Nurses who hold an active compact license may now practice in this state.
Nurses who reside in this state may apply for a compact license as of the implementation date.
Guam*
Yes
Date to be determined
Pennsylvania*
Yes
Date to be determined
U.S. Virgin Islands*
No
Date to be determined
Washington
Yes
Jan. 31, 2024
NLC States
*Compact license not available until full implementation is complete.
NurseCompact.com 9
Revised: Sept. 6, 2023
Practice Question and Answer: Supervision and Nursing Practice Question: I am a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) with a directed scope of practice, what does it mean when I am told I must have “supervision” of my practice? Answer: The Nursing Practice Act (NPA) and Texas Board of Nursing (Board) rules require licensed vocational nurse (LVN) practice to be performed under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN), advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), physician, physician assistant (PA), podiatrist, or dentist [NPA Section 301.353 and Board Rule 217.11 (2)]. These licensed supervisors are responsible for directing, guiding, and influencing the outcome of an LVN’s performance of an activity [Board Rule 217.11 (2)]. From a regulatory perspective, vocational nursing is defined in the Nursing Practice Act Section 301.002(5): “Vocational nursing means a directed scope of nursing practice, including the performance of an act that requires specialized judgment and skill, the proper performance of which is based on knowledge and application of the principles of biological, physical, and social science as acquired by a completed course in an approved school of vocational nursing. The term does not include acts of medical diagnosis or the prescription of therapeutic or corrective measures. Vocational nursing involves: (A) collecting data and performing focused nursing assessments of the health status of an individual;
(B) participating in the planning of the nursing care needs of an individual; (C) participating in the development and modification of the nursing care plan; (D) participating in health teaching and counseling to promote, attain, and maintain the optimum health level of an individual; (E) assisting in the evaluation of an individual’s response to a nursing intervention and the identification of an individual’s needs; and (F) engaging in other acts that require education and training, as prescribed by board rules and policies, commensurate with the nurse’s experience, continuing education, and demonstrated competency.” In summary, vocational nursing practice is a directed scope of practice that requires appropriate supervision. The LVN is precluded from practicing in a completely independent manner; however, direct and on-site supervision may not be required in all settings or patient care situations. Determining the proximity of an appropriate clinical supervisor, whether available by phone or physical presence, should be made by the LVN and the LVN’s clinical supervisor.
Question: I am an LVN starting a new position, how do I determine if I have proper supervision of my nursing practice? Each LVN is required to ensure that he or she has the appropriate 10
supervisor prior to accepting an assignment, a position, or employment. While the NPA and Board Rules prevent an LVN from practicing without appropriate direction and supervision by an RN, APRN, physician, PA, podiatrist, or dentist, the required proximity of the licensed supervisor to the LVN and/or the LVN’s practice setting is not specified. The proximity to the LVN’s practice setting and the type of licensure of the LVN’s supervisor should be determined on a case-by-case basis with input from the LVN and his/her licensed supervisor. However, an appropriately licensed supervisor must be accessible to the LVN at least telephonically or by similar means at all times. There are many factors to consider when determining the appropriate proximity of the licensed supervisor, including, but not limited to: •
the type of practice setting;
•
the stability of the patient’s condition;
•
the complexity of tasks being performed by the LVN;
•
the LVN’s experience and knowledge; and
•
any laws and/or regulations that apply to the specific practice setting or situation at hand.
For example, the supervision of an experienced LVN working in a long-term care facility will be different than the supervision of a newly licensed LVN working in an outpatient clinic. These are very distinct practice settings, each with cont. on next page
Practice Question and Answer - cont. from prev. page their own sets of applicable laws and regulations, and varying levels of LVN experience. These are just a few items to consider when determining appropriate supervision of the LVN. If the LVN transitions to unstructured settings where the clinical supervisor may not be on-site, it is the LVN’s responsibility to ensure they have access to an appropriate clinical supervisor and that the policies, procedures, and guidelines for that particular setting are established to guide LVN practice. As a reminder, whether a task is a nursing act or a delegated medical act, each nurse (LVN or RN) is individually responsible for providing a safe environment and is accountable for the tasks he/she chooses to perform [Board Rule 217.11 (1) (B) & (1)(T)]. Position Statement 15.14, Duty of a Nurse in Any Practice Setting, further illustrates a nurse’s duty to his/her patients.
Question: As a registered nurse (RN), am I required to have a nursing supervisor? Answer: To address this question, it helps to begin with the definition of professional nursing (practice at the RN level). From a regulatory perspective, professional nursing is defined in the Nursing Practice Act Section 301.002(2): “Professional nursing” means the performance of an act that requires substantial specialized judgment and skill, the proper performance of which is based on knowledge and application of the principles of biological, physical, and social science as acquired by a completed course in an approved school of professional nursing. The term does not include acts of medical diagnosis or the prescription of therapeutic or corrective measures.
Question: As an RN, my company has told me that they (A) the observation, assessment, are restructuring and I will intervention, evaluation, rehabilitation, care and counsel, or now have an unlicensed perhealth teachings of a person who is son as my manager/director, ill, injured, infirm, or experiencing a can they supervise my nurschange in normal health processes; ing practice? Professional nursing involves:
(B) the maintenance of health or prevention of illness;
(C) the administration of a medication or treatment as ordered by a physician, podiatrist, or dentist; (D) the supervision or teaching of nursing; (E) the administration, supervision, and evaluation of nursing practices, policies, and procedures; (F) the requesting, receiving, signing for, and distribution of prescription drug samples to patients at practices at which an advanced practice registered nurse is authorized to sign prescription drug orders as provided by Subchapter B, Chapter 157; (G) the performance of an act delegated by a physician under Section 157.0512, 157.054, 157.058, or 157.059; and (H) the development of the nursing care plan.” This means the RN takes responsibility and accepts accountability for practicing within the legal scope of practice (outlined above), is prepared to work in all health care settings, and may engage in independent nursing practice without supervision by another health care provider.
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From the legal definition of registered nursing practice from the previous question, one can see that licensure as a Registered Nurse is required to supervise and evaluate nursing practice. When it comes to evaluating and supervising the practice of nursing, neither an LVN, unlicensed supervisor, nor a non-clinical person can carry out those functions, as this would be the practice of professional nursing and require RN licensure. Therefore, a non-RN supervisor may not supervise a nurse’s practice. However, they may carry out supervisory functions of non-nursing issues, e.g., attendance, timecards, or approving vacation time. In general, for non-clinical issues or questions related to general employment matters, those may be directed to the non-clinical supervisor in their work environment, unless there is another law, rule, or regulation that applies to the setting that prevents those issues from being addressed by the non-clinical supervisor [Board Rule 217.11(1)(A)].
Are you interested in learning more about the laws and rules surrounding nursing practice in Texas? Are you new to practice in Texas and have questions about your scope of practice? Want more information on how to invoke Safe Harbor or what to expect from Nursing Peer Review? In 2024, Board Staff is offering five Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics workshops. Protecting Your Patients and Your Practice, Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics workshops provide registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, and advanced practice registered nurses with information on the current nursing licensure laws that serve as the foundation for the nurses’ practice in the State of Texas. During the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to hear directly from, and interact with, the Nursing Consultants for Practice team and ask questions related to the course's content. Wednesday March 6, 2024
Online Virtual
Microsoft Teams
8:00 am to 4:00 pm CST Thursday June 20, 2024
Austin, Texas
9:00 am to 5:00 pm CST Wednesday August 7, 2024
Barbara Jordan State Office Building
Online Virtual
Microsoft Teams
Online Virtual
Microsoft Teams
Online Virtual
Microsoft Teams
8:00 am to 4:00 pm CST Wednesday September 25, 2024 8:00 am to 4:00 pm CST Wednesday November 6, 2024 8:00 am to 4:00 pm CST
Workshop participation will contribute to the nurse’s ability to know and conform with the Texas Nursing Practice Act and the Board’s Rules and Regulations, which in turn will promote and protect the welfare of the public. This workshop will be approved for contact hours, the final number of contact hours approved will be provided in 2024. For more information and registration, please visit: https://www.bon.texas.gov/catalog/ index.html We hope you join us for one of our 2024 workshops!! Further, we have additional courses on demand that can be found here. 12
IMPOSTER WARNING If you have any knowledge or information regarding the employment practices of the following individuals or any nurse imposter, please contact the Board’s Enforcement Division immediately at (512) 305-6838.
KATHRYN RENE JOHNSON
that the date of birth and social security number provided by Ileana Lizeth Menjivar Leon to her employer did not belong to any nurse having a license or privilege to practice nursing in the State of Texas. The case has been referred to the Office of the Comal County District Attorney for prosecution.
a.k.a Kathryn R. Johnson; a.k.a. Kathryn Johnson; a.k.a. Rene Johnson On or about November 11, 2021, through January 16, 2022, while employed as a licensed vocational nurse with a staffing agency in Brady, Texas, and contracted with a nursing home in Fredericksburg, Texas, Kathryn Rene Johnson was practicing without a license. On or about November 9, 2021, Kathryn Rene Johnson’s license was revoked by the Texas Board of Nursing, Austin, Texas. While employed, Kathryn Rene Johnson was providing direct patient care along with administering medications and other responsibilities designated for a licensed vocational nurse. The Board’s investigation revealed that the date of birth and social security number provided by Kathryn Rene Johnson to her employer does not belong to any nurse having a license or privilege to practice nursing in the State of Texas. The case has been referred to the Gillespie County District Attorney’s office for prosecution.
JESSICA RENEE JUDD a.k.a. Jessica Morse; a.k.a. Jessica Fogelson; a.k.a. Jessica R Judd; a.k.a. Renee Judd; a.k.a. Jessica Judd Jessica Renee Judd secured employment and practiced as a registered nurse (RN) at a hospital in Wichita Falls, Texas, from June 1, 2020, through January 26, 2021, by using the license number belonging to another nurse with the same first and last name. During this time, Jessica Renee Judd provided skilled nursing care to patients and represented herself as a registered nurse to staff, patients, families, physicians, and the public while using the credentials of “RN” on medical and business records. Additionally, Jessica Renee Judd secured employment and practiced as a registered Nurse at a treatment center in Weatherford, Texas, from June 22, 2022, through April 29, 2023, by using the license number belonging to another nurse with the same first and last name. Furthermore, Jessica Renee Judd secured employment and practiced as a registered nurse supervisor at a clinic in Decatur, Texas, from April 14, 2023, through April 21, 2023, by using the license number belonging to another nurse with the same first and last name. In addition, Jessica Renee Judd secured employment and practiced as the director of nursing at a nursing home in Jacksboro, Texas, from May 3, 2023, through May 11, 2023, by using the license number belonging to another nurse with the same first and last name. The Board’s investigation revealed that the date of birth and social security number provided by Jessica Renee Judd to her multiple employers did not belong to any nurse having a license or privilege to practice nursing in the State of Texas. The case has been referred to the Offices of the Wichita County District Attorney, Wise County District Attorney, Parker County District Attorney, and Jack County District Attorney for prosecution.
ILEANA LIZETH MENJIVAR LEON a.k.a. Ileana Leon; a.k.a. Ileana M Leon; a.k.a. Ileana Menjivar Leon; a.k.a. Ileana L Menjivar Leon; a.k.a. Ileana L Leon; a.k.a. Lizeth Leon; Lizeth M Leon Ileana Lizeth Menjivar Leon secured employment and practiced as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) at an assisted living facility in New Braunfels, Texas, from September 30, 2022, through April 28, 2023, by using the license number belonging to another nurse with a different first and last name. During this time, Ileana Lizeth Menjivar Leon represented herself as a licensed vocational nurse to staff, patients, families, and the public while using the credentials of “LVN” on medical records. Ileana Lizeth Menjivar Leon administered intramuscular injections, assessed multiple clients, treated wounds, and took verbal orders from physicians. The Board’s investigation revealed 13
NOTICE OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION The following nurses had disciplinary action taken against their licenses through a Board order containing public information about the nurse’s disciplinary action. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, the Board's licensure verification system should be utilized for verification. You can obtain information about these disciplinary actions from the Board’s website, www.bon.texas.gov, using the verification look-up under Licensure or under the disciplinary action section of Discipline & Complaints. Under Licensure, select Verification, then click on the applicable license type; Discipline & Complaints, select Disciplinary Action, then select individual newsletter date. Additionally, you can send your written request to the Texas Board of Nursing, Enforcement Division, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460, Austin, Texas 78701-3944.
RN 935622
Remedial Education
Action Date 9/13/23
RN 902306
Reprimand with Stipulations
8/8/23
Enforced Suspension Warning with Stipulations Aritua, Loretta Lynn RN 799126 & LVN 221952 and Fine Ashley, Keith Todd RN 709488 Revoked Atemba, Barbara Metichi RN 1040588 Reprimand with Stipulations Bailey, Christina Renay LVN 348981 Revoked Bailey Seay, Patricia RN 909323 Reprimand with Stipulations Ball, Shelly S. RN 1021150 Enforced Suspension Balogun, Adetutu Adebule RN 1003712 Reprimand with Stipulations Bandarodriguez, Marizol RN 987881 & LVN 334571 Remedial Education with Fine Barker, Sara I. AP131919 & RN 716391 Revoked RN 934930 & PTP NM Barraza, Robert Revoked 89155 Becknal, Brenda Karen LVN 144852 Reprimand with Stipulations Bibb, Katherine Elizabeth LVN 233047 Remedial Education with Fine Bidwell, Ashley Kay RN 938321 Voluntary Surrender Bloomer, Melissa Karen RN 809066 & LVN 215532 Remedial Education with Fine Bluemel, Cassandra J. LVN 224145 Reprimand with Stipulations Boatright, Raven Renee LVN 330166 Voluntary Surrender Brandt, Priscilla Elaina LVN 330042 Remedial Education Bretz, Maximo Isaac LVN 346098 Revoked Briere, Donald L. RN 602867 Voluntary Surrender Briseno, Barbara Jane RN 736105 Probated Suspension Briseno, Krysta Nicolle RN 801876 Revoked Britton, Kimberly RN 737843 Revoked Brown-Colar, Tracey Donita RN 600542 Warning with Stipulations Buffenbarger, Justina Suk RN 828181 Remedial Education Buley, Rachelle Rae RN 607309 Revoked Bumford, Nicole Victoria RN 946682 Enforced Suspension Bush, Shonte RN 795665 & LVN 210684 Warning with Stipulations Warning with Stipulations Byrd, Carla Waynette RN 956429 & LVN 139234 and Fine Calverley, Ross Michael RN 865125 Enforced Suspension Carrithers, Deborah Rachel RN 510041 Revoked Carter, Jessica Maxine RN 1070432 Voluntary Surrender Castaneda, Sabrina Marie LVN 195291 Voluntary Surrender Cervantes, Suzan Kay LVN 117115 Warning with Stipulations Clark, Rachel T. RN 594055 Reprimand with Stipulations Cook, Amber Lyn LVN 345977 Enforced Suspension Cooper, Samantha Grace RN 1021271 Remedial Education Corral, Paige Kendall RN 853368 Revoked Coward, Dennis K. RN 626863 Revoked Warning with Stipulations Crocker, Christopher James LVN 332290 and Fine Crussell, Mychelle PTP AR 213817 Warning with Stipulations Warning with Stipulations, Cuellar, Cristina RN 790981 & LVN 226563 Deferred Darling, Jamie LVN 218200 Probated Suspension
8/23/23
Name Ainsworth, Nicole Marie Allen, Charline Sheena Ladon Arevalo, Alicia Louis
License Numbers
LVN 1032125
Discipline
10/19/23 8/17/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/17/23 9/12/23 8/29/23 2/15/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/21/23 10/3/23 8/30/23 9/12/23 8/31/23 10/12/23 9/12/23 8/22/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 10/19/23 10/17/23 8/8/23 10/11/23 10/19/23 10/19/23 8/1/23 8/8/23 9/6/23 9/8/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 10/16/23 10/3/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 10/19/23
Name Davis, Laura Ann Deaton, Stephanie Kay
License Numbers
Discipline
LVN 126722 Revoked LVN 337521 Revoked AP137634, RX 26505 & RN Dewey, Sonya June Remedial Education 671506 Dill, Casey Lynn RN 879126 Reprimand with Stipulations Donnelly, Patricia Lorraine RN 1100190 Remedial Education Drake, Angela Christine AP123854 & RN 775413 Warning with Stipulations Egbochue, Christopher RN 686254 Reprimand with Stipulations Emeka Warning with Stipulations Ellis, Nolan Michael RN 831470 and Fine Engledow, Cody Wayne RN 891560 Revoked Fetzer, Rebecca Lynn RN 857872 Reprimand with Stipulations Filippone, Enrico Jerome LVN 316948 Probated Suspension Flores, Alcee Adriel RN 1083259 Warning with Stipulations Flores, Sabrina Monique LVN 225891 Revoked Fonji, Joan Azenjuh LVN 1012866 Voluntary Surrender Fontenot, Debra Lynn RN 826700 & LVN 201538 Warning with Stipulations Freeman, Kandyce R. RN 1012820 Warning with Stipulations Galliani, Heather Hood RN 832587 Remedial Education with Fine Garcia, Gina RN 884625 Remedial Education Gatson, Argena L. B. RN 684053 Warning with Stipulations Ghisoiu, Frances Rene LVN 338704 Reprimand with Stipulations Gilbreath, Kate Elizabeth RN 723459 Revoked Go, Kenneth Albert Maraon RN 749460 Revoked RN 1077281 & PTP OK Gochenour, Nicholas Reprimand with Stipulations R0128508 Golightly, Sara Hall RN 963249 & LVN 307246 Warning with Stipulations Gonzales, Elizabeth Anne LVN 115287 Revoked Gonzalez, Jenessa Lauren LVN 230858 Revoked Goodman, Lacresha Dawn LVN 208741 Revoked Warning with Stipulations Goodson, Brittany Layne RN 930398 and Fine Reprimand with Sipulations Goodwin, Tedra Lynette LVN 154397 and Fine Grady, Taquisha Lavette LVN 332742 Probated Suspension Warning with Stipulations Gurrola, Jennifer Ocon LVN 1010382 and Fine AP1011779, RX 35979 & Warning with Stipulations Haddad, Latonya Lenette RN 707635 and Fine Hagan, Tiffany Deshon LVN 159264 Revoked Hake, Shea RN 991075 Revoked Hall, Joe Reginald AP124044 & RN 704827 Remedial Education, Deferred Halstead, Alissia Ann LVN 102551 Voluntary Surrender Hancock, Karen Anne RN 914213 & LVN 307504 Remedial Education with Fine Hannah, Emily Rose RN 1041495 Revoked Harp, Charlotte Ann RN 754921 & LVN 211766 Reprimand with Stipulations Harris, Gwendolyn S. RN 618190 & LVN 148523 Revoked Warning with Stipulations, Hart, Stephanie Lauren LVN 340528 Deferred Hendricks, Cheryl Lynn LVN 185181 Remedial Education with Fine
Action Date 9/12/23 9/12/23 10/26/23 9/12/23 10/13/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 10/5/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 8/15/23 9/19/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 10/12/23 9/13/23 8/2/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 10/4/23
8/8/23 continued on next page
14
DISCIPLINARY ACTION - cont. from prev. pg. Name
License Numbers
Hendricks, Mariatu S. RN 1013384 Hendrix, Cathy PTP AR L052834 Hendrix, Ralph Vernon RN 552760 Hernandez, Belinda Jean LVN 177912 Hernandez, Juan Roberto LVN 68346 Herrington, Sammi Deeann LVN 303213
Discipline
Reprimand with Stipulations Warning with Stipulations Probated Suspension Warning with Stipulations Probated Suspension Warning with Stipulations Reprimand with Sipulations Holland, Andrea Renae RN 920057 and Fine Holton, Shane RN 892171 & LVN 211773 Revoked Hoskins, Marjorie D. LVN 142627 & PTP ID 9962 Revoked Remedial Education with Fine, Howard, Madelyn RN 857716 Deferred AP1098500, RX 45967 & Huckabay, Megan Celeste Remedial Education RN 935555 Huff, Regina Marie LVN 317150 Reprimand with Stipulations Hysell, Grace RN 618241 & LVN 124744 Warning with Stipulations AP1032569, RX 38529 & Ibenyenwa, Irene Obiageri Remedial Education PTP GA 184698 Ikwuanusi, Ifeanyi Robert RN 965098 Reprimand with Stipulations Ivey, Diamond RN 1007540 Reprimand with Stipulations Iwegbu, Tina Rosemarie RN 779534 Voluntary Surrender Jackson, Norman Jay RN 1138859 & LVN 349420 Warning with Stipulations Jaramillo, Juanita R LVN 115223 Warning with Stipulations Johnson, Kelli Ann RN 602338 Remedial Education Kamuyu, Maureen LVN 352508 Warning with Stipulations Kanjiyani, Seemin RN 934506 Voluntary Surrender Keith, Shelia Karon LVN 144472 Remedial Education, Deferred Keyes, Felecia PTP MS 337503 Reprimand with Stipulations Kinzer, Kristin Lynn RN 791884 & LVN 214113 Warning with Stipulations Kirk, Brianee Deaton LVN 226242 Revoked Knighton, Leia Rae LVN 200945 Reprimand with Stipulations Kocen, Lisa Catherine RN 568024 Enforced Suspension Kocinski, Amber Lee LVN 307078 Remedial Education Kundert, Jana Lynne RN 802458 Revoked Lake, Tammy Joyce RN 513168 Warning with Stipulations Lee, Jennifer Dawn LVN 306913 Revoked Lemons, Deborah Monroe RN 714345 Reprimand with Fine Lerma, Judith A. AP103430 & RN 242143 Remedial Education Lewis, Linda Darnell LVN 120026 Voluntary Surrender Lewis, Tatum Noell RN 1021933 Remedial Education with Fine Llerena, Meredith Michelle LVN 221772 Warning with Stipulations Lopez-Baldwin, Lucero RN 1051556 Remedial Education Valeria Lukowski, Suzanne RN 648277 Warning with Stipulations Machajewski, Daniel RN 909151 Remedial Education Richard Malker, Kenneth Ray RN 816483 Remedial Education Mangalino, Lea Olivia RN 523111 Probated Suspension Warning with Stipulations Manning, Melissa Elaine RN 1019766 & LVN 341864 and Fine Mares, Marcus RN 867698 & LVN 204996 Warning with Stipulations Marquez, Julie Sylvia LVN 169630 Reprimand with Stipulations Marshall, Donna Kay LVN 131058 Voluntary Surrender Masi, Nelson LVN 304790 Reprimand with Stipulations Chukwuemeka Mathew, Mariamma RN 570005 & LVN 131831 Voluntary Surrender Joshuva May, Kassie Danae RN 872046 Enforced Suspension
Action Date 9/12/23 8/8/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/1/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 10/31/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/23/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 10/11/23 8/8/23 10/9/23 10/10/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/29/23 9/29/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/19/23 10/30/23 10/26/23 10/19/23 10/26/23 10/19/23 9/5/23 10/25/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 8/7/23 9/12/23 8/14/23 9/21/23
Name McCloud, Jordan Rayborn McDonald, Florence Yvonne McDuffie, Lori Ducote McGrath, Lisa Dawn Mead, Kendra Deanne Mehrhoff, Daniel Timothy Mendek, Alexandra Rene
RN 773990
Voluntary Surrender
Action Date 10/23/23
RN 550736
Voluntary Surrender
10/9/23
License Numbers
Warning with Stipulations Voluntary Surrender Revoked Remedial Education Remedial Education Reprimand with Stipulations Meza, Savannah Rae LVN 225279 and Fine Miller, Michelle RN 763456 Revoked Mims, Sheila Elaine LVN 140374 Revoked Mireles-Torres, Saul RN 985303 Reprimand with Stipulations Warning with Stipulations, Mohr, Rachel Lauren RN 1018345 & LVN 321747 Deferred Moore, Randal Lee LVN 114498 Revoked Morataya, Rut Jenniffer LVN 316518 Voluntary Surrender Warning with Stipulations Morgan, Glendy Anna LVN 339230 and Fine Morton, Natalie RN 727741 & LVN 135634 Warning with Stipulations Warning with Stipulations Mwaniki, Nelly Mukuhi LVN 216008 and Fine Nguyen, Miranda Leigh RN 1002944 Remedial Education with Fine Nuuttila, Vanessa Lillian LVN 301825 Revoked Nwosuh, Charity Nkechi LVN 167959 Warning with Stipulations Obidegwu, Christiana Ego LVN 233298 Reprimand with Stipulations Ochoa-Neely, Stephanie RN 645254 Warning with Stipulations Omoye, Atinuke LVN 210045 Warning with Stipulations Omwansa, Shyrleen Warning with Stipulations, LVN 347478 Kwamboka Deferred Onyeador, Ikenna RN 1137536 & PTP VA Warning with Stipulations Ifeanyichukwu 0001293297 Ortega, Kathryn Kenna RN 614882 Remedial Education with Fine Ortiz, Suzette Frances RN 764998 Probated Suspension Paez, Christina Alexis RN 1006590 Remedial Education Palma, Neida RN 1038281 Warning with Stipulations Panka, Bozena LVN 207574 Remedial Education Pappachan, Pheba AP123576 & RN 711462 Warning with Stipulations Parienta, Sivan RN 860255 Voluntary Surrender Pauley, Stephanie Kay LVN 193960 Enforced Suspension Perkins, Doris Ann RN 1054541 Revoked Pierre, Wilfrid LVN 336381 Enforced Suspension Warning with Stipulations Poehls, Shelby Nicole RN 949163 and Fine Pomroy (Childress), Jamie Warning with Stipulations LVN 322523 Deeann and Fine Warning with Stipulations Ponder, Brittany Nicole RN 1010084 & LVN 349165 and Fine Price, Nicole Lynn RN 910188 Warning with Stipulations Putman, Jennifer RN 751005 Revoked Ramirez, Margarita LVN 151141 Enforced Suspension Rasmussen, Roy Parker RN 602564 Revoked Reyes, Melissa RN 770638 & LVN 173267 Reprimand with Stipulations Rhoton, Linda Jean RN 759236 & LVN 152077 Enforced Suspension Richardson, Virginia Fay LVN 304030 Warning with Stipulations Rister, Tracy Glynn Goode LVN 187538 Warning with Stipulations Rivero, Rene RN 982263 Reprimand with Stipulations Warning with Stipulations Roberts, Steven L. RN 681786 & LVN 145525 and Fine
15
LVN 139312 LVN 300429 LVN 340038 RN 817686 RN 980460
Discipline
9/12/23 9/19/23 8/8/23 10/16/23 8/14/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 9/11/23 10/19/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 10/10/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 10/18/23 10/19/23 9/26/23 9/12/23 10/12/23 9/12/23 9/27/23 9/8/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 10/30/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 10/19/23 8/8/23
9/12/23 10/19/23
continued on next page
DISCIPLINARY ACTION - cont. from prev. pg. Name Robinson, Evette Dominique Rodgers, Christina Marie
License Numbers LVN 1042587 LVN 331258
Discipline Warning with Stipulations
Voluntary Surrender Warning with Stipulations Rosales, Robi Lynn LVN 203670 and Fine Rumfield, Lucas Daniel RN 821104 Warning with Fine Rundell, William Ryan RN 878665 Probated Suspension Reprimand with Sipulations Samuel, Jennifer Faith RN 903814 and Fine Sanborn, David RN 872123 Reprimand with Stipulations Sandoval, Albert RN 626927 Revoked Schmidt, Angela Lynn RN 691807 Remedial Education, Deferred Schumacher, Deliza Deann RN 927884 & LVN 230532 Warning with Stipulations Sebastian, Joel RN 792986 Enforced Suspension Seilhammer, Courtney RN 863746 Revoked Marie Session, Jennifer Devonne LVN 300672 Reprimand with Sipulations Simons, Karen Turner LVN 233906 Probated Suspension Skinner, Joyce Ann RN 596905 Revoked Smalls, Lisia D. LVN 184091 Reprimand with Stipulations Smith, Lindsay Renee LVN 222431 Probated Suspension Smith, Mehgan LVN 307403 Enforced Suspension Smith, Ticarra Nicole LVN 190594 Voluntary Surrender Warning with Stipulations Smith, Traanna Louise RN 980327 and Fine Solly, Christine Marie RN 1005013 Revoked Sosa, Vanessa Nicole LVN 208614 Remedial Education St. Cricq, Jennifer Alicia RN 837527 Revoked Reprimand with Sipulations Stacy, Emily Rose RN 1020663 and Fine Steinberger, Linda Carol LVN 171087 Revoked Stephens, Meghan Manon RN 815007 Voluntary Surrender Stokes (Terrell), Mary LVN 321505 Probated Suspension Noelle Stokes, Summer Marie RN 775086 & LVN 198806 Revoked Warning with Stipulations, Stover, Latina Marie RN 920162 Deferred Terry, Baillie Elizabeth RN 954880 & LVN 227392 Enforced Suspension Tevington, Michael Jack LVN 347593 Probated Suspension AP139502, RX 28282 & RN Thomas, Monique Remedial Education with Fine 952768 Thompson, Jessica RN 958916 Voluntary Surrender Tobin, Michelle Cherree LVN 218826 Probated Suspension Tramposch, J. Reed RN 1007584 Reprimand with Stipulations Umeh, Jude Ikemfuna RN 1017466 & LVN 340656 Warning with Stipulations Vaughan, Madison Marzel RN 1007074 Warning with Stipulations Wade, Stephanie Jon RN 705820 Revoked Wallace, Halley Elizabeth RN 860958 Revoked Walls, Shawn Terrell AP123541 & RN 833968 Revoked Watts, Terri L. RN 544991 Revoked Wheatley, Susan Marie RN 785844 Reprimand with Stipulations White, Keaton Steven LVN 233798 Revoked Wigington, Melissa Ann RN 687394 & LVN 177591 Revoked Warning with Stipulations and Williams, Joyce Jenrola LVN 304795 Fine, Deferred Woodfin, Stephen AP113424 & RN 624978 Enforced Suspension Alexander
Action Date 10/10/23
Abbreviations in the Notice of Disciplinary Action Section PTP Privilege to Practice in Texas associated with the indicated state and license.
10/19/23
RX
9/12/23
9/12/23 8/8/23
Prescription Authorization
Statistical information
9/12/23
The 231 disciplinary actions reported in this Bulletin represent only 0.048% of nurses who are currently licensed to practice in the State of Texas.
9/12/23 10/19/23 9/6/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 1/30/23
As of November 30, 2023, 99.73% of current registered nurses, 99.40% of current licensed vocational nurses, and 99.72% of current advanced practice registered nurses were without discipline according to Board records.
10/19/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 10/19/23 10/19/23 9/5/23 8/14/23
Nurse Employers: Do You Want to Receive an Email Alert Now That the Bulletin is Online?
9/12/23 8/8/23 10/5/23 8/8/23
The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) has discontinued mailing the Texas Board of Nursing Bulletin (Bulletin). Nurse employers, other boards of nursing, and any interested individuals who would like to receive an email alert when the newsletter is posted may do so when the Bulletin is posted online. The only requirements necessary to receive an alert when the Bulletin is posted is to notify the Board that you would like to receive an alert when the Bulletin is posted. Note: all nurses who have established nurse portal accounts will be sent notice of Bulletins using the email address associated with the account. If you would like to be added to the electronic notification list for all issues of the newsletter, please send an email to bruce.holter@bon.texas.gov. In the Subject Line for the email, write Add Me to the Bulletin List. No further information is required. The email address that you provide will only be used to notify you when the newsletter has been posted.
10/19/23 8/8/23 8/16/23 10/19/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 10/13/23 10/19/23 10/4/23 10/26/23 10/19/23 8/8/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 9/12/23 8/8/23 9/12/23 10/17/23
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Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN) Upcoming Educational Opportunities Safe nursing practice is essential for patient safety. The Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN) safeguards patients by providing early identification, support, monitoring, accountability, and advocacy to Texas nurses who have an identified substance use or mental health condition or related incident, so they may practice nursing safely. The TPAPN website (www.tpapn.org) has more information about the TPAPN program. TPAPN has launched on-demand information sessions about the TPAPN program (and training for new and current peer support partners). The online information session, TPAPN Program Overview, is accessible by following the directions below: 1. Go To https://www.texasnurses.org/ 2. Go to the Professional Development tab and click Get CNE. 3. Go to Categories and select TPAPN On Demand where you will see a list of available options. 4. Select Register, if you are not a TNA member, you can create a non-member account to log in. 5. Watch the course, then get your certificate. The Peer Support Partner is a volunteer nurse who provides support, guidance, encouragement, and more, to nurses participating in TPAPN. There is a need for Peer Support Partners to provide support to nurses in the TPAPN program across Texas. There are live, or synchronous, virtual classes coming on January 16th and March 12th: Information Session for becoming a Peer Support Partner. The training modules for potential peer support partners are available on the TPAPN website and can be taken asynchronously. For potential peer support partners who prefer the live, or synchronous, training, TPAPN will be presenting: January 22nd: Person Centered Care January 23rd: Motivational Interviewing March 5th: Mental Health Conditions March 6th: Substance Use Disorder
Peer support partners, and potential peer support partners, will need to send the certificate of completion to TPAPN (www.tpapn.org). For current peer support partners, TPAPN has more training opportunities available; current peer support partners should keep their contact information (address, email, phone) updated with TPAPN. A nurse may self-refer to TPAPN, an employer may refer a nurse to TPAPN, or the Board may refer or order a nurse to TPAPN. A nurse with a substance use or mental health condition that might impact nursing practice is encouraged to self-refer to TPAPN prior to the condition impacting nursing practice. An employer may refer a nurse to TPAPN if the condition has not impacted nursing practice but is required to report the nurse to the Board of Nursing (BON) if there has been a nursing practice violation. The TPAPN referral form is on the TPAPN website. The BON website contains links to complaint forms under Discipline & Complaints – How to File a Complaint. 17
Mark Majek Recognized by Senate Resolution No. 57 During Fourth Special Session of Texas Legislature Mark Majek, MA, PHR, SHRM-CP, former Director of Operations for the Texas Board of Nursing (BON or Board) was recognized by Senate Resolution 57, authored by Senator Chuy Hinojosa, which was read and adopted on November 30, 2023, in the Texas Senate. Mr. Majek worked for the Board for 36 years and witnessed the growth of the agency to more than 120 staff members, with almost half a million nurses licensed by the Board. While working for the Board, Mr. Majek had many roles including supervision of Customer Service, Information Technology, Licensing, and Human Resources. For further information concerning Mr. Majek's accomplishments during his time at the BON, see the October 2023 issue of the Board of Nursing Bulletin. The Board congratulates Mr. Majek for receiving this recognition by the Texas Senate.
18
Opportunities for Graduate Nursing Students The National Council of State Boards of Nursing's (NCSBN’s) Regulatory Scholars Program advances the field of nursing regulation by offering graduate nursing students innovative experiences in nursing regulation and policy analysis.
Scholar in Residence This eight-week, full-time, paid experience provides a doctoral student or faculty member with valuable nursing regulatory/policy experience related to education, practice, licensure, policy and/ or discipline. The position will begin in the summer of 2024, or as negotiated with NCSBN.
Grant Program for Doctoral Students NCSBN’s Center for Regulatory Excellence (CRE) Grant Program provides funding for scientific research projects related to nursing regulation and policy. Participants will have two years to complete their study. Study results will be published and presented to national and international audiences.
Unpaid Graduate Internship Nursing graduate students who would like to gain nursing regulatory/policy experience to satisfy the clinical experience component of their graduate nursing program are encouraged to apply for this three-month internship located in the Chicagoland area. The student will gain experience in a variety of NCSBN departments and will contribute to the work of NCSBN while obtaining practical experience in nursing regulation. To learn more about these opportunities for graduate nursing students, grant programs for doctoral students, and graduate internships, visit https://www.ncsbn.org/regulatoryscholars
Board of Nursing Contact Information
Texas Board of Nursing Meeting Schedule
MAIN NUMBER...........................................................(512) 305-7400 FAX.............................................................................(512) 305-7401 -- 24-hour Access -- License Verification -- General Information
2024 Board Meeting Dates
January 25-26
April 18-19
July 18-19
October 24-25
ENFORCEMENT............................................................(512) 305-6838 -- Complaint and Disciplinary Action Inquiries -- Violations of NPA and Rules and Regulations -- Monitoring of Disciplined RNs and LVNs
2024 Eligibility and Disciplinary Committee Meeting Dates February 13 March 19 May 14 June 11 August 13 September 10 December 10 November 12
OPERATIONS CUSTOMER SERVICE..............................................(512) 305-6809 -- License Renewals, Endorsement, Examination, or Continuing Education for Nurses...........Licensing@bon.texas.gov PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL NURSING ADVANCED PRACTICE............................................(512) 305-6843 -- APRN Application and Prescriptive Authority Procedures....................aprn@bon.texas.gov NURSING EDUCATION...........................................(512) 305-6816
For meeting times and locations, visit the Board of Nursing website.
NURSING PRACTICE...............................................(512) 305-6802 -- Nursing Practice Issues -- Legislation
* - The Board meeting scheduled for January 25-26, 2024, may be streamed online. Meeting access infomation will be posted at: www.bon.texas.gov
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Nurse Imposter Pleads Guilty for Fraudulently Presenting Nursing License On January 3, 2024, Nora Nely Avila, 35, pleaded guilty before the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas after she fraudulently presented a nursing license to gain employment. According to court documents, Ms. Avila admitted that from January 2017 through December 2019, she impersonated a nurse and performed work she was not licensed to do at multiple hospitals and home health companies in the Laredo area. These health care providers hired Avila after she fraudulently presented another person’s nursing license. A federal judge has set sentencing for April 9. At that hearing, Ms. Avila faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine. The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) posted an Imposter Alert on Ms. Avila in the October 2019 BON Bulletin.
Information published in the Texas Board of Nursing Bulletin is not copyrighted and may be reproduced. The Board would appreciate credit for the material used and a copy of the reprint. Please direct questions or comments to: Newsletter, Texas Board of Nursing, 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 10-200, Austin, Texas 78701-3944. Comments may be emailed to bruce. holter@bon.texas.gov or call (512) 305-6842. Office Hours and Location The office of the Texas Board of Nursing is located in the George H.W. Bush Building, located next to the Bob Bullock Museum in downtown Austin, across the street from the University of Texas. The mailing address is: 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 10-200, Austin, Texas 78701. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for designated holidays. If you need to reach the Board, please call (512) 305-7400 or send an email to: webmaster@bon.texas.gov The Texas Board of Nursing is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability in employment or in the provision of services, programs, or activities. The Texas Board of Nursing Bulletin is published quarterly by the Texas Board of Nursing. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this document may be requested in alternate formats by contacting the Board's office, (512) 305-7400 (Voice), (512) 305-7401 (FAX), or by visiting the George H.W. Bush Building, 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 10-200, Austin, Texas 78701.
Nursys is the only national database for verification of nurse licensure, discipline and practice privileges for RNs, LPN/VNs and APRNs licensed in participating jurisdictions, including all states in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). There are three Nursys services publicly available via External Link nursys.com:
* e-Notify * Nurse License Verification * Licensure QuickConfirm
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