Ala. Admin. Code r. 610-X-17-.13

Current through Register Vol. 43, No. 1, October 31, 2024

Section 610-X-17-.13 - Standards and Scope of Practice

1. The Board may adopt standards of certified nursing support technician practice and continuing competency.

2. An NST-C approved by the Board may perform Board approved supportive nursing service skills and duties without delegation, as indicated in the NST-C skills list approved by the Board.

3. An NST-C may work in any healthcare setting that is not otherwise prohibited by law. NST-C practice may occur only when all of the following conditions are met:

a. A licensed nurse supervises the NST-C skills or tasks performed by the NST-C and is available to intervene as needed.

b. The Board-approved skills/tasks the NST performs are based on the patient's/resident's needs, as documented in the comprehensive and/or focused assessment by the registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.

c. The NST-C shall not perform any duties that require the exercise of independent nursing judgment. Specific tasks that require independent nursing judgment that shall not be performed by the NST-C include, but are not limited to:

1. Sterile procedures, unless otherwise permitted on the approved NST-C skills list.

2. Receipt of verbal or telephone orders from a licensed prescriber.

3. Medication administration.

4. Advanced NST-C skills may be performed by an NST-C with advanced certifications recognized by the Board and after a standardized procedure has been submitted and approved by the Board.

5. In the event that the NST-C observes a change in the patient's condition or has difficulty performing the supportive nursing skills, the NST-C shall notify the supervising licensed nurse immediately.

Ala. Admin. Code r. 610-X-17-.13

Adopted by Alabama Administrative Monthly Volume XLII, Issue No. 10, July 31, 2024, eff. 9/14/2024, operative 10/1/2024.

Author: Alabama Board of Nursing

Statutory Authority: 34-21-2, Alabama Act No. 2024-249