title: RCW 18.76.010

text:
The legislature finds that accidental and purposeful exposure to drugs, poisons, and toxic substances continues to be a severe health problem in the state of Washington. It further finds that a significant reduction in the consequences of such accidental exposures has occurred as a result of the services provided by poison information centers.
The purpose of this chapter is to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with overdose and poisoning incidents by providing emergency telephone assistance and treatment referral to victims of such incidents, by providing immediate treatment information to health care professionals, and public education and prevention programs. Further, the purpose is to improve utilization of drugs by providing information to health professionals relating to appropriate therapeutic drug use.
The legislature recognizes that enhanced cooperation between the emergency medical system and poison control centers will aid in responding to emergencies resulting from exposure to drugs, poisons, and toxic substances, and that, by providing telephone assistance to individuals with possible exposure to these substances, the need for emergency room and professional office visits will be reduced. As a result the cost of health care to those who may have exposures to drugs, poisons, and toxic substances will be avoided and appropriate treatment will be assured.
[ 1993 c 343 s 1; 1987 c 214 s 16; 1980 c 178 s 1. Formerly RCW 18.73.210.]

catchline: Purpose.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 18.76.020

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter:
(1) "Department" means the department of health.
(2) "Poison information center medical director" means a person who: (a) Is licensed to practice medicine and surgery under chapter 18.71 RCW or osteopathic medicine and surgery under chapter 18.57 RCW; (b) is certified by the secretary under standards adopted under RCW 18.76.050; and (c) provides services enumerated under RCW 18.76.030, and is responsible for supervision of poison information specialists.
(3) "Poison information specialist" means a person who provides services enumerated under RCW 18.76.030 under the supervision of a poison information center medical director and is certified by the secretary under standards adopted under RCW 18.76.050.
(4) "Secretary" means the secretary of health.
[ 1996 c 178 s 7; 1991 c 3 s 184; 1987 c 214 s 19.]
Notes:
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Definitions.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 18.76.030

text:
The department shall, in a manner consistent with this chapter, provide support for the statewide program of poison and drug information services. These services shall, no later than June 30, 1993, be centralized in and coordinated by a single nonprofit center to be located in a place determined by the secretary. The services of this center shall be:
(1) Twenty-four hour emergency telephone management and treatment referral of victims of poisoning and overdose incidents, to include determining whether treatment can be accomplished at the scene of the incident or transport to an emergency treatment or other facility is required, and carrying out telephone follow-up to assure that adequate care is provided;
(2) Providing information to health professionals involved in management of poisoning and overdose victims;
(3) Coordination and development of community education programs designed to inform the public and members of the health professions of poison prevention and treatment methods and to improve awareness of poisoning and overdose problems, occupational risks, and environmental exposures; and
(4) Coordination of outreach units whose primary functions shall be to inform the public about poison problems and prevention methods, how to utilize the poison center, and other toxicology issues.
[ 1993 c 343 s 2; 1987 c 214 s 17; 1980 c 178 s 2. Formerly RCW 18.73.220.]

catchline: Poison information center—Statewide program.


title: RCW 18.76.041

text:
The department shall establish a system for consulting with other state and local agency programs concerned with poisons and poisonings, incidents involving exposures to potentially poisonous substances, and other toxicological matters to develop the most coordinated and consistent response to such situations as is reasonably possible.
[ 1993 c 343 s 3.]

catchline: Consulting with other poison programs.


title: RCW 18.76.050

text:
The secretary with the advice of the emergency medical services and trauma care steering committee established under *RCW 18.73.050 shall adopt rules, under chapter 34.05 RCW, prescribing:
(1) Standards for the operation of a poison information center;
(2) Standards and procedures for certification, recertification and decertification of poison center medical directors and poison information specialists; and
(3) Standards and procedures for reciprocity with other states or national certifying agencies.
[ 1990 c 269 s 21; 1987 c 214 s 20.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 18.73.050 was repealed by 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 23.

catchline: Rules and standards.


title: RCW 18.76.060

text:
(1) A person may not act as a poison center medical director or perform the duties of poison information specialists of a poison information center without being certified by the secretary under this chapter.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, if a poison center medical director terminates certification or is decertified, that poison center medical director's authority may be delegated by the department to any other person licensed to practice medicine and surgery under chapter 18.71 RCW or osteopathic medicine and surgery under chapter 18.57 RCW for a period of thirty days, or until a new poison center medical director is certified, whichever comes first.
[ 1996 c 178 s 8; 1993 c 343 s 4; 1987 c 214 s 21.]
Notes:
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.

catchline: Poison center medical director—Poison information specialist—Certification required.


title: RCW 18.76.070

text:
(1) No act done or omitted in good faith while performing duties as a poison center medical director or poison information specialist of a poison information center shall impose any liability on the poison center, its officers, the poison center medical director, the poison information specialist, or other employees.
(2) This section:
(a) Applies only to acts or omissions committed or omitted in the performance of duties which are within the area of responsibility and expertise of the poison center medical director or poison information specialist.
(b) Does not relieve the poison center or any person from any duty imposed by law for the designation or training of a person certified under this chapter.
(c) Does not apply to any act or omission which constitutes gross negligence or wilful or wanton conduct.
[ 1987 c 214 s 22.]

catchline: Immunity from liability.


title: RCW 18.76.080

text:
The department shall defend any poison center medical director or poison information specialist for any act or omission subject to RCW 18.76.070.
[ 1987 c 214 s 23.]

catchline: Department to defend personnel.


title: RCW 18.76.090

text:
The center may receive gifts, grants, and endowments from public or private sources that may be made from time to time, in trust or otherwise, for the use and benefit of the purposes of the center and spend gifts, grants, or endowments or any income from the public or private sources according to their terms.
[ 1993 c 343 s 5.]

catchline: Use of gifts and grants.


title: RCW 18.76.110

text:
The department shall immediately suspend the certification of a poison center medical director or a poison information specialist who has been certified pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order or a *residential or visitation order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for certification during the suspension, reissuance of the certification shall be automatic upon the department's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the person is in compliance with the order.
[ 1997 c 58 s 825.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: 1997 c 58 s 886 requiring a court to order certification of noncompliance with residential provisions of a court-ordered parenting plan was vetoed. Provisions ordering the department of social and health services to certify a responsible parent based on a court order to certify for noncompliance with residential provisions of a parenting plan were vetoed. See RCW 74.20A.320.
Short title—Part headings, captions, table of contents not law—Exemptions and waivers from federal law—Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904.
Effective dates—Intent—1997 c 58: See notes following RCW 74.20A.320.

catchline: Certificate suspension—Noncompliance with support order—Reissuance.


title: RCW 18.79.010

text:
It is the purpose of the state board of nursing to regulate the competency and quality of professional health care providers under its jurisdiction by establishing, monitoring, and enforcing qualifications for licensing, consistent standards of practice, continuing competency mechanisms, and discipline. Rules, policies, and procedures developed by the board must promote the delivery of quality health care to the residents of the state of Washington.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5003; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 401.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.


title: RCW 18.79.020

text:
Unless a different meaning is plainly required by the context, the definitions set forth in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Advanced registered nurse practitioner" means a person who is licensed to practice advanced registered nursing under this chapter.
(2) "Board" means the Washington state board of nursing.
(3) "Certified clinical nurse specialist" means an advanced registered nurse practitioner who has obtained specialty certification in the certified clinical nurse specialist designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(4) "Certified nurse midwife" means an advanced registered nurse practitioner who has obtained specialty certification in the certified nurse midwife designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(5) "Certified nurse practitioner" means an advanced registered nurse practitioner who has obtained specialty certification in the certified nurse practitioner designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(6) "Certified registered nurse anesthetist" means an advanced registered nurse practitioner who has obtained specialty certification in the certified registered nurse anesthetist designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(7) "Department" means the department of health.
(8) "Diagnosis," in the context of nursing practice, means the identification of, and discrimination between, the person's physical and psychosocial signs and symptoms that are essential to effective execution and management of the nursing care regimen.
(9) "Diploma" means written official verification of completion of an approved nursing education program.
(10) "Nurse" or "nursing," unless otherwise specified as a practical nurse or practical nursing, means a registered nurse or registered nursing.
(11) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
[ 2026 c 139 s 1; 2023 c 123 s 17; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 402.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: The definitions in this section have been alphabetized pursuant to RCW 1.08.015(2)(k).
Expiration date—2026 c 139 ss 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11: "Sections 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 of this act expire June 30, 2027." [ 2026 c 139 s 14.]
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.
PDF
RCW 18.79.020
Definitions. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
Unless a different meaning is plainly required by the context, the definitions set forth in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Advanced practice registered nurse" means a person who is licensed to practice advanced practice registered nursing under this chapter.
(2) "Board" means the Washington state board of nursing.
(3) "Certified clinical nurse specialist" means an advanced practice registered nurse who has obtained specialty certification in the certified clinical nurse specialist designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(4) "Certified nurse midwife" means an advanced practice registered nurse who has obtained specialty certification in the certified nurse midwife designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(5) "Certified nurse practitioner" means an advanced practice registered nurse who has obtained specialty certification in the certified nurse practitioner designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(6) "Certified registered nurse anesthetist" means an advanced practice registered nurse who has obtained specialty certification in the certified registered nurse anesthetist designation through a board-approved certifying body.
(7) "Department" means the department of health.
(8) "Diagnosis," in the context of nursing practice, means the identification of, and discrimination between, the person's physical and psychosocial signs and symptoms that are essential to effective execution and management of the nursing care regimen.
(9) "Diploma" means written official verification of completion of an approved nursing education program.
(10) "Nurse" or "nursing," unless otherwise specified as a practical nurse or practical nursing, means a registered nurse or registered nursing.
(11) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
[ 2026 c 139 s 2; 2023 c 123 s 17; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 402.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: The definitions in this section have been alphabetized pursuant to RCW 1.08.015(2)(k).
Effective date—2026 c 139 ss 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12: "Sections 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 of this act take effect June 30, 2027." [ 2026 c 139 s 13.]
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.

catchline: Definitions. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.030

text:
(1) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as a registered nurse in this state unless that human person has been licensed under this chapter or holds a valid multistate license under chapter 18.80 RCW. A person who holds a license to practice as a registered nurse in this state may use the titles "registered nurse" and "nurse" and the abbreviation "R.N." No other person or any nonhuman entity may assume those titles or use the abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person or any nonhuman entity using them is a registered nurse.
(2)(a) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as an advanced registered nurse practitioner in this state unless that human person has been licensed under this chapter.
(b) A person who holds a license to practice as an advanced registered nurse practitioner in this state may use the title "advanced registered nurse practitioner" and the abbreviation "A.R.N.P."
(c) A person licensed to practice advanced practice registered nursing in the state as:
(i) A certified nurse practitioner may use the title "certified nurse practitioner" and the abbreviation "C.N.P.";
(ii) A certified nurse midwife may use the title "certified nurse midwife" and the abbreviation "C.N.M.";
(iii) A certified registered nurse anesthetist may use the title "certified registered nurse anesthetist" and the abbreviation "C.R.N.A."; or
(iv) A certified clinical nurse specialist may use the title "certified clinical nurse specialist" and the abbreviation "C.C.N.S."
(d) No other person or any nonhuman entity may assume those titles or use those abbreviations or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person or any nonhuman entity using them is an advanced registered nurse practitioner.
(3) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as a licensed practical nurse in this state unless that human person has been licensed under this chapter or holds a valid multistate license under chapter 18.80 RCW. A person who holds a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse in this state may use the titles "licensed practical nurse" and "nurse" and the abbreviation "L.P.N." No other person or any nonhuman entity may assume those titles or use that abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person or any nonhuman entity using them is a licensed practical nurse.
(4) Nothing in this section shall prohibit a person listed as a Christian Science nurse in the Christian Science Journal published by the Christian Science Publishing Society, Boston, Massachusetts, from using the title "Christian Science nurse," so long as such person does not hold himself or herself out as a registered nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner, certified nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified clinical nurse specialist, or licensed practical nurse, unless otherwise authorized by law to do so.
[ 2026 c 139 s 3; 2026 c 6 s 1; 2023 c 123 s 19; 1997 c 177 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 403.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2026 c 6 s 1 and by 2026 c 139 s 3, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Expiration date—2026 c 6 s 1: "Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2027." [ 2026 c 6 s 3.]
Expiration date—2026 c 139 ss 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.
PDF
RCW 18.79.030
Licenses required—Titles. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as a registered nurse in this state unless that human person has been licensed under this chapter or holds a valid multistate license under chapter 18.80 RCW. A person who holds a license to practice as a registered nurse in this state may use the titles "registered nurse" and "nurse" and the abbreviation "R.N." No other person or any nonhuman entity may assume those titles or use the abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person or any nonhuman entity using them is a registered nurse.
(2)(a) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as an advanced practice registered nurse or as a nurse practitioner in this state unless that human person has been licensed under this chapter.
(b) A person who holds a license to practice as an advanced practice registered nurse in this state may use the title "advanced practice registered nurse" and the abbreviation "A.P.R.N."
(c) A person licensed to practice advanced practice registered nursing in the state as:
(i) A certified nurse practitioner may use the title "certified nurse practitioner" and the abbreviation "C.N.P.";
(ii) A certified nurse midwife may use the title "certified nurse midwife" and the abbreviation "C.N.M.";
(iii) A certified registered nurse anesthetist may use the title "certified registered nurse anesthetist" and the abbreviation "C.R.N.A."; or
(iv) A certified clinical nurse specialist may use the title "certified clinical nurse specialist" and the abbreviation "C.C.N.S."
(d) No other person or any nonhuman entity may assume those titles or use those abbreviations or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person or any nonhuman entity using them is an advanced practice registered nurse.
(3) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as a licensed practical nurse in this state unless that human person has been licensed under this chapter or holds a valid multistate license under chapter 18.80 RCW. A person who holds a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse in this state may use the titles "licensed practical nurse" and "nurse" and the abbreviation "L.P.N." No other person or any nonhuman entity may assume those titles or use that abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person or any nonhuman entity using them is a licensed practical nurse.
(4) Nothing in this section shall prohibit a person listed as a Christian Science nurse in the Christian Science Journal published by the Christian Science Publishing Society, Boston, Massachusetts, from using the title "Christian Science nurse," so long as such person does not hold himself or herself out as a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, certified nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified clinical nurse specialist, or licensed practical nurse, unless otherwise authorized by law to do so.
[ 2026 c 139 s 4; 2026 c 6 s 2; 2024 c 239 s 1; 2023 c 123 s 19; 1997 c 177 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 403.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2026 c 6 s 2 and by 2026 c 139 s 4, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Effective date—2026 c 6 s 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2027." [ 2026 c 6 s 4.]
Effective date—2026 c 139 ss 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Effective date—2024 c 239: "Except for section 21 of this act, this act takes effect June 30, 2027." [ 2024 c 239 s 22.]
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.

catchline: Licenses required—Titles. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.040

text:
(1) "Registered nursing practice" means the performance of acts requiring substantial specialized knowledge, judgment, and skill based on the principles of the biological, physiological, behavioral, and sociological sciences in either:
(a) The observation, assessment, diagnosis, care or counsel, and health teaching of individuals with illnesses, injuries, or disabilities, or in the maintenance of health or prevention of illness of others;
(b) The performance of such additional acts requiring education and training and that are recognized by the medical and nursing professions as proper and recognized by the board to be performed by registered nurses licensed under this chapter and that are authorized by the board through its rules;
(c) The administration, supervision, delegation, and evaluation of nursing practice. However, nothing in this subsection affects the authority of a hospital, hospital district, in-home service agency, community-based care setting, medical clinic, or office, concerning its administration and supervision;
(d) The teaching of nursing;
(e) The executing of medical regimen as prescribed by a licensed physician and surgeon, dentist, osteopathic physician and surgeon, podiatric physician and surgeon, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner, or as directed by a licensed midwife within his or her scope of practice.
(2) Nothing in this section prohibits a person from practicing a profession for which a license has been issued under the laws of this state or specifically authorized by any other law of the state of Washington.
(3) This section does not prohibit (a) the nursing care of the sick, without compensation, by an unlicensed person who does not hold himself or herself out to be a registered nurse, (b) the practice of licensed practical nursing by a licensed practical nurse, or (c) the practice of a nursing assistant, providing delegated nursing tasks under chapter 18.88A RCW.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5004; 2020 c 80 s 15; 2012 c 13 s 1; 2003 c 140 s 1; 1995 1st sp.s. c 18 s 50; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 404.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: "Sections 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055 of this act expire June 30, 2027." [ 2025 c 58 s 5171.]
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Effective date—2003 c 140: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 7, 2003]." [ 2003 c 140 s 13.]
Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 18: See notes following RCW 74.39A.030.
PDF
RCW 18.79.040
"Registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) "Registered nursing practice" means the performance of acts requiring substantial specialized knowledge, judgment, and skill based on the principles of the biological, physiological, behavioral, and sociological sciences in either:
(a) The observation, assessment, diagnosis, care or counsel, and health teaching of individuals with illnesses, injuries, or disabilities, or in the maintenance of health or prevention of illness of others;
(b) The performance of such additional acts requiring education and training and that are recognized by the medical and nursing professions as proper and recognized by the board to be performed by registered nurses licensed under this chapter and that are authorized by the board through its rules;
(c) The administration, supervision, delegation, and evaluation of nursing practice. However, nothing in this subsection affects the authority of a hospital, hospital district, in-home service agency, community-based care setting, medical clinic, or office, concerning its administration and supervision;
(d) The teaching of nursing;
(e) The executing of medical regimen as prescribed by a licensed physician and surgeon, dentist, osteopathic physician and surgeon, podiatric physician and surgeon, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse, or as directed by a licensed midwife within his or her scope of practice.
(2) Nothing in this section prohibits a person from practicing a profession for which a license has been issued under the laws of this state or specifically authorized by any other law of the state of Washington.
(3) This section does not prohibit (a) the nursing care of the sick, without compensation, by an unlicensed person who does not hold himself or herself out to be a registered nurse, (b) the practice of licensed practical nursing by a licensed practical nurse, or (c) the practice of a nursing assistant, providing delegated nursing tasks under chapter 18.88A RCW.
[ 2024 c 239 s 2; 2020 c 80 s 15; 2012 c 13 s 1; 2003 c 140 s 1; 1995 1st sp.s. c 18 s 50; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 404.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Effective date—2003 c 140: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 7, 2003]." [ 2003 c 140 s 13.]
Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 18: See notes following RCW 74.39A.030.

catchline: "Registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.050

text:
"Advanced registered nursing practice" means the performance of the acts of a registered nurse and the performance of an expanded role in providing health care services as recognized by the medical and nursing professions, the scope of which is defined by rule by the board. Upon approval by the board, an advanced registered nurse practitioner may prescribe legend drugs and controlled substances contained in Schedule V of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, and Schedules II through IV subject to RCW 18.79.240(1) (r) or (s).
Nothing in this section prohibits a person from practicing a profession for which a license has been issued under the laws of this state or specifically authorized by any other law of the state of Washington.
This section does not prohibit (1) the nursing care of the sick, without compensation, by an unlicensed person who does not hold himself or herself out to be an advanced registered nurse practitioner, or (2) the practice of registered nursing by a licensed registered nurse or the practice of licensed practical nursing by a licensed practical nurse.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5005; 2000 c 64 s 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 405.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Effective date—2000 c 64 ss 1-3: "Sections 1 through 3 of this act take effect July 1, 2000." [ 2000 c 64 s 8.]
Severability—2000 c 64: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2000 c 64 s 9.]
PDF
RCW 18.79.050
"Advanced practice registered nursing" defined—Exceptions. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
"Advanced practice registered nursing" means the performance of the acts of a registered nurse and the performance of an expanded role in providing health care services as recognized by the medical and nursing professions, the scope of which is defined by rule by the board. Upon approval by the board, an advanced practice registered nurse may prescribe legend drugs and controlled substances contained in Schedule V of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, and Schedules II through IV subject to RCW 18.79.240(1) (r) or (s).
Nothing in this section prohibits a person from practicing a profession for which a license has been issued under the laws of this state or specifically authorized by any other law of the state of Washington.
This section does not prohibit (1) the nursing care of the sick, without compensation, by an unlicensed person who does not hold himself or herself out to be an advanced practice registered nurse, or (2) the practice of registered nursing by a licensed registered nurse or the practice of licensed practical nursing by a licensed practical nurse.
[ 2024 c 239 s 3; 2000 c 64 s 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 405.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Effective date—2000 c 64 ss 1-3: "Sections 1 through 3 of this act take effect July 1, 2000." [ 2000 c 64 s 8.]
Severability—2000 c 64: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2000 c 64 s 9.]

catchline: "Advanced registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.060

text:
"Licensed practical nursing practice" means the performance of services requiring the knowledge, skill, and judgment necessary for carrying out selected aspects of the designated nursing regimen under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician and surgeon, dentist, osteopathic physician and surgeon, physician assistant, podiatric physician and surgeon, advanced registered nurse practitioner, registered nurse, or midwife.
Nothing in this section prohibits a person from practicing a profession for which a license has been issued under the laws of this state or specifically authorized by any other law of the state of Washington.
This section does not prohibit the nursing care of the sick, without compensation, by an unlicensed person who does not hold himself or herself out to be a licensed practical nurse.
[ 2020 c 80 s 16; 2012 c 13 s 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 406.]
Notes:
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
PDF
RCW 18.79.060
"Licensed practical nursing practice" defined—Exceptions. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
"Licensed practical nursing practice" means the performance of services requiring the knowledge, skill, and judgment necessary for carrying out selected aspects of the designated nursing regimen under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician and surgeon, dentist, osteopathic physician and surgeon, physician assistant, podiatric physician and surgeon, advanced practice registered nurse, registered nurse, or midwife.
Nothing in this section prohibits a person from practicing a profession for which a license has been issued under the laws of this state or specifically authorized by any other law of the state of Washington.
This section does not prohibit the nursing care of the sick, without compensation, by an unlicensed person who does not hold himself or herself out to be a licensed practical nurse.
[ 2024 c 239 s 4; 2020 c 80 s 16; 2012 c 13 s 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 406.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.

catchline: "Licensed practical nursing practice" defined—Exceptions. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.070

text:
(1) The state ((nursing care quality assurance commission))board of nursing is established, consisting of fifteen members to be appointed by the governor to four-year terms. The governor shall consider nursing members who are recommended for appointment by the appropriate professional associations in the state. No person may serve as a member of the ((commission))board for more than two consecutive full terms.
(2) There must be seven registered nurse members, two advanced registered nurse practitioner members, three licensed practical nurse members, and three public members on the ((commission))board. Each member of the ((commission))board must be a resident of this state.
(3)(a) Registered nurse members of the ((commission))board must:
(i) Be licensed as registered nurses under this chapter; and
(ii) Have had at least three years' experience in the active practice of nursing and have been engaged in that practice within two years of appointment.
(b) In addition:
(i) At least one member must be on the faculty at a four-year university nursing program;
(ii) At least one member must be on the faculty at a two-year community college nursing program;
(iii) At least two members must be staff nurses providing direct patient care; and
(iv) At least one member must be a nurse manager or a nurse executive.
(4) Advanced registered nurse practitioner members of the ((commission))board must:
(a) Be licensed as advanced registered nurse practitioners under this chapter; and
(b) Have had at least three years' experience in the active practice of advanced registered nursing and have been engaged in that practice within two years of appointment.
(5) Licensed practical nurse members of the ((commission))board must:
(a) Be licensed as licensed practical nurses under this chapter; and
(b) Have had at least three years' actual experience as a licensed practical nurse and have been engaged in practice as a practical nurse within two years of appointment.
(6) Public members of the ((commission))board may not be a member of any other health care licensing board or commission, or have a fiduciary obligation to a facility rendering health services regulated by the ((commission))board, or have a material or financial interest in the rendering of health services regulated by the ((commission))board.
In appointing the initial members of the ((commission))board, it is the intent of the legislature that, to the extent possible, the governor appoint the existing members of the board of nursing and the board of practical nursing repealed under chapter 9, Laws of 1994 sp. sess. The governor may appoint initial members of the ((commission))board to staggered terms of from one to four years. Thereafter, all members shall be appointed to full four-year terms. Members of the ((commission))board hold office until their successors are appointed.
When the secretary appoints pro tem members, reasonable efforts shall be made to ensure that at least one pro tem member is a registered nurse who is currently practicing and, in addition to meeting other minimum qualifications, has graduated from an associate or baccalaureate nursing program within three years of appointment.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5006; 2022 c 240 s 32; 2005 c 17 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 407.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: RCW 18.79.070 was amended twice during the 2025 legislative session, each without reference to the other. For rule of construction concerning sections amended more than once during the same legislative session, see RCW 1.12.025.
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.070
Board of nursing established—Membership—Qualifications (as amended by 2025 c 5). (Effective until June 30, 2027.)
(1) The state ((nursing care quality assurance commission))board of nursing is established, consisting of ((fifteen))17 members to be appointed by the governor to four-year terms. The governor shall consider nursing members who are recommended for appointment by the appropriate professional associations in the state. No person may serve as a member of the ((commission))board for more than two consecutive full terms.
(2) There must be seven registered nurse members, two advanced registered nurse practitioner members, ((three))two licensed practical nurse members, two certified nursing assistant members, a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse member, and three public members on the ((commission))board. Each member of the ((commission))board must be a resident of this state.
(3)(a) Registered nurse members of the ((commission))board must:
(i) Be licensed as registered nurses under this chapter; and
(ii) Have had at least three years' experience in the active practice of nursing and have been engaged in that practice within two years of appointment.
(b) In addition:
(i) At least one member must be on the faculty at a four-year university nursing program;
(ii) At least one member must be on the faculty at a two-year community college nursing program;
(iii) At least two members must be staff nurses providing direct patient care; and
(iv) At least one member must be a nurse manager or a nurse executive.
(4) Advanced registered nurse practitioner members of the ((commission))board must:
(a) Be licensed as advanced registered nurse practitioners under this chapter; and
(b) Have had at least three years' experience in the active practice of advanced registered nursing and have been engaged in that practice within two years of appointment.
(5) Licensed practical nurse members of the ((commission))board must:
(a) Be licensed as licensed practical nurses under this chapter; and
(b) Have had at least three years' actual experience as a licensed practical nurse and have been engaged in practice as a practical nurse within two years of appointment.
(6) Certified nursing assistant members of the board must:
(a) Be currently employed as certified nursing assistants, licensed under chapter 18.88A RCW; and
(b) Have at least two years' experience as a certified nursing assistant.
(7) The registered nurse or licensed practical nurse member must be currently either a program director or educator in an approved nursing assistant training program.
(8) Public members of the ((commission))board may not be a member of any other health care licensing board or commission, or have a fiduciary obligation to a facility rendering health services regulated by the ((commission))board, or have a material or financial interest in the rendering of health services regulated by the ((commission))board.
((In appointing the initial members of the *commission, it is the intent of the legislature that, to the extent possible, the governor appoint the existing members of the board of nursing and the board of practical nursing repealed under chapter 9, Laws of 1994 sp. sess. The governor may appoint initial members of the commission to staggered terms of from one to four years. Thereafter, all members shall be appointed to full four-year terms.)) Members of the ((commission))board hold office until their successors are appointed.
When the secretary appoints pro tem members, reasonable efforts shall be made to ensure that at least one pro tem member is a registered nurse who is currently practicing and, in addition to meeting other minimum qualifications, has graduated from an associate or baccalaureate nursing program within three years of appointment.
[ 2025 c 5 s 1; 2022 c 240 s 32; 2005 c 17 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 407.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2025 c 5 s 1: "Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2027." [ 2025 c 5 s 22.]
Effective dates—2025 c 5: "(1) Sections 1 and 3 through 20 of this act take effect July 1, 2026.
(2) Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2027." [ 2025 c 5 s 21.]
PDF
RCW 18.79.070
Board of nursing established—Membership—Qualifications. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) The state board of nursing is established, consisting of 17 members to be appointed by the governor to four-year terms. The governor shall consider nursing members who are recommended for appointment by the appropriate professional associations in the state. No person may serve as a member of the board for more than two consecutive full terms.
(2) There must be seven registered nurse members, two advanced practice registered nurse members, two licensed practical nurse members, two certified nursing assistant members, a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse member, and three public members on the board. Each member of the board must be a resident of this state.
(3)(a) Registered nurse members of the board must:
(i) Be licensed as registered nurses under this chapter; and
(ii) Have had at least three years' experience in the active practice of nursing and have been engaged in that practice within two years of appointment.
(b) In addition:
(i) At least one member must be on the faculty at a four-year university nursing program;
(ii) At least one member must be on the faculty at a two-year community college nursing program;
(iii) At least two members must be staff nurses providing direct patient care; and
(iv) At least one member must be a nurse manager or a nurse executive.
(4) Advanced practice registered nurse members of the board must:
(a) Be licensed as advanced practice registered nurses under this chapter; and
(b) Have had at least three years' experience in the active practice of advanced practice registered nursing and have been engaged in that practice within two years of appointment.
(5) Licensed practical nurse members of the board must:
(a) Be licensed as licensed practical nurses under this chapter; and
(b) Have had at least three years' actual experience as a licensed practical nurse and have been engaged in practice as a practical nurse within two years of appointment.
(6) Certified nursing assistant members of the board must:
(a) Be currently employed as certified nursing assistants, licensed under chapter 18.88A RCW; and
(b) Have at least two years' experience as a certified nursing assistant.
(7) The registered nurse or licensed practical nurse member must be currently either a program director or educator in an approved nursing assistant training program.
(8) Public members of the board may not be a member of any other health care licensing board or commission, or have a fiduciary obligation to a facility rendering health services regulated by the board, or have a material or financial interest in the rendering of health services regulated by the board.
Members of the board hold office until their successors are appointed.
When the secretary appoints pro tem members, reasonable efforts shall be made to ensure that at least one pro tem member is a registered nurse who is currently practicing and, in addition to meeting other minimum qualifications, has graduated from an associate or baccalaureate nursing program within three years of appointment.
[ 2025 c 5 s 2; 2024 c 239 s 5; 2022 c 240 s 32; 2005 c 17 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 407.]
Notes:
Effective dates—2025 c 5: "(1) Sections 1 and 3 through 20 of this act take effect July 1, 2026.
(2) Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2027." [ 2025 c 5 s 21.]
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.

catchline: Board established—Membership—Qualifications (as amended by 2025 c 58). (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.080

text:
The governor may remove a member of the board for neglect of duty, misconduct, malfeasance or misfeasance in office, or for incompetency or unprofessional conduct as defined in chapter 18.130 RCW. Whenever the governor is satisfied that a member of the board has been guilty of neglect of duty, misconduct, malfeasance or misfeasance in office, or of incompetency or unprofessional conduct, the governor shall file with the secretary of state a statement of the causes for and the order of removal from office, and the secretary shall forthwith send a certified copy of the statement of causes and order of removal to the last known post office address of the member. If a vacancy occurs on the board, the governor shall appoint a replacement member to fill the remainder of the unexpired term.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5007; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 408.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.

catchline: Board—Order of removal—Vacancy.


title: RCW 18.79.090

text:
Each board member shall be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.265 and shall be paid travel expenses when away from home in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5008; 1999 c 366 s 5; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 409.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.

catchline: Board—Compensation.


title: RCW 18.79.100

text:
The board shall annually elect officers from among its members. The board shall meet at least quarterly at times and places it designates. It shall hold such other meetings during the year as may be deemed necessary to transact its business. A majority of the board members appointed and serving constitutes a quorum at a meeting. All meetings of the board must be open and public, except that the board may hold executive sessions to the extent permitted by chapter 42.30 RCW.
Carrying a motion or resolution, adopting a rule, or passing a measure requires the affirmative vote of a majority of a quorum of the board. The board may appoint panels consisting of at least three members. A quorum for transaction of any business by a panel is a minimum of three members. A majority vote of a quorum of the panel is required to transact business delegated to it by the board.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5009; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 410.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.

catchline: Board—Officers—Meetings.


title: RCW 18.79.110

text:
(1) The board shall keep a record of all of its proceedings and make such reports to the governor as may be required. The board shall define by rules what constitutes specialized and advanced levels of nursing practice as recognized by the medical and nursing profession. The board may adopt rules or issue advisory opinions in response to questions put to it by professional health associations, nursing practitioners, and consumers in this state concerning the authority of various categories of nursing practitioners to perform particular acts.
(2) The board shall approve curricula and shall establish criteria for minimum standards for schools preparing persons for licensing as registered nurses, advanced registered nurse practitioners, and licensed practical nurses under this chapter. The board shall approve such schools of nursing as meet the requirements of this chapter and the board, and the board shall approve establishment of basic nursing education programs and shall establish criteria as to the need for and the size of a program and the type of program and the geographical location. The board shall establish criteria for proof of reasonable currency of knowledge and skill as a basis for safe practice after three years' inactive or lapsed status. The board shall establish criteria for licensing by endorsement. The board shall determine examination requirements for applicants for licensing as registered nurses, advanced registered nurse practitioners, and licensed practical nurses under this chapter, and shall certify to the secretary for licensing duly qualified applicants. The board shall adopt rules which allow for one hour of simulated learning to be counted as equivalent to two hours of clinical placement learning, with simulated learning accounting for up to a maximum of 50 percent of the required clinical hours.
(3) The board shall adopt rules on continuing competency. The rules must include exemptions from the continuing competency requirements for registered nurses seeking advanced nursing degrees. Nothing in this subsection prohibits the board from providing additional exemptions for any person credentialed under this chapter who is enrolled in an advanced education program.
(4) The board shall adopt such rules under chapter 34.05 RCW as are necessary to fulfill the purposes of this chapter.
(5) The board is the successor in interest of the board of nursing and the board of practical nursing. All contracts, undertakings, agreements, rules, regulations, decisions, orders, and policies of the former board of nursing or the board of practical nursing continue in full force and effect under the board until the board amends or rescinds those rules, regulations, decisions, orders, or policies.
(6) The members of the board are immune from suit in an action, civil or criminal, based on its disciplinary proceedings or other official acts performed in good faith as members of the board.
(7) Whenever the workload of the board requires, the board may request that the secretary appoint pro tempore members of the board. When serving, pro tempore members of the board have all of the powers, duties, and immunities, and are entitled to all of the emoluments, including travel expenses, of regularly appointed members of the board.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5010; 2023 c 126 s 8; 2013 c 229 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 411.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Findings—2023 c 126: See note following RCW 28B.50.800.
PDF
RCW 18.79.110
Board—Duties and powers—Rules—Successor to boards. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) The board shall keep a record of all of its proceedings and make such reports to the governor as may be required. The board shall define by rules what constitutes specialized and advanced levels of nursing practice as recognized by the medical and nursing profession. The board may adopt rules or issue advisory opinions in response to questions put to it by professional health associations, nursing practitioners, and consumers in this state concerning the authority of various categories of nursing practitioners to perform particular acts.
(2) The board shall approve curricula and shall establish criteria for minimum standards for schools preparing persons for licensing as registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses under this chapter. The board shall approve such schools of nursing as meet the requirements of this chapter and the board, and the board shall approve establishment of basic nursing education programs and shall establish criteria as to the need for and the size of a program and the type of program and the geographical location. The board shall establish criteria for proof of reasonable currency of knowledge and skill as a basis for safe practice after three years' inactive or lapsed status. The board shall establish criteria for licensing by endorsement. The board shall determine examination requirements for applicants for licensing as registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses under this chapter, and shall certify to the secretary for licensing duly qualified applicants. The board shall adopt rules which allow for one hour of simulated learning to be counted as equivalent to two hours of clinical placement learning, with simulated learning accounting for up to a maximum of 50 percent of the required clinical hours.
(3) The board shall adopt rules on continuing competency. The rules must include exemptions from the continuing competency requirements for registered nurses seeking advanced nursing degrees. Nothing in this subsection prohibits the board from providing additional exemptions for any person credentialed under this chapter who is enrolled in an advanced education program.
(4) The board shall adopt such rules under chapter 34.05 RCW as are necessary to fulfill the purposes of this chapter.
(5) The board is the successor in interest of the board of nursing and the board of practical nursing. All contracts, undertakings, agreements, rules, regulations, decisions, orders, and policies of the former board of nursing or the board of practical nursing continue in full force and effect under the board until the board amends or rescinds those rules, regulations, decisions, orders, or policies.
(6) The members of the board are immune from suit in an action, civil or criminal, based on its disciplinary proceedings or other official acts performed in good faith as members of the board.
(7) Whenever the workload of the board requires, the board may request that the secretary appoint pro tempore members of the board. When serving, pro tempore members of the board have all of the powers, duties, and immunities, and are entitled to all of the emoluments, including travel expenses, of regularly appointed members of the board.
[ 2024 c 239 s 6; 2023 c 126 s 8; 2013 c 229 s 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 411.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Findings—2023 c 126: See note following RCW 28B.50.800.

catchline: Board—Duties and powers—Rules—Successor to boards. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.120

text:
The Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice, the issuance and denial of licenses, and the discipline of licensees under this chapter.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 412.]

catchline: Application of Uniform Disciplinary Act.


title: RCW 18.79.140

text:
The executive director must be a graduate of a college or university, with a masters' degree.
[ 2022 c 240 s 33; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 414.]

catchline: Executive director—Qualifications.


title: RCW 18.79.150

text:
An institution desiring to conduct a school of registered nursing or a school or program of practical nursing, or both, shall apply to the board and submit evidence satisfactory to the board that:
(1) It is prepared to carry out the curriculum approved by the board for basic registered nursing or practical nursing, or both; and
(2) It is prepared to meet other standards established by law and by the board.
The board shall make, or cause to be made, such surveys of the schools and programs, and of institutions and agencies to be used by the schools and programs, as it determines are necessary. If in the opinion of the board, the requirements for an approved school of registered nursing or a school or program of practical nursing, or both, are met, the board shall approve the school or program. The board may grant approval to baccalaureate nursing education programs where the nurse administrator holds a graduate degree with a major in nursing and has sufficient experience as a registered nurse but does not hold a doctoral degree.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5011; 2023 c 126 s 7; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 415.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Findings—2023 c 126: See note following RCW 28B.50.800.


title: RCW 18.79.160

text:
(1) An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner, or licensed practical nurse shall submit to the board:
(a) An attested written application on a department form; and
(b) Any other official records specified by the board.
(2) An applicant for a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse shall also submit to the board written official evidence that the applicant is over the age of 18.
(3) At the time of submission of the application, the applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner, or licensed practical nurse must not be in violation of chapter 18.130 RCW or this chapter.
(4) The board shall establish by rule the criteria for evaluating the education of all applicants.
[ 2026 c 139 s 5; 2025 c 58 s 5012; 2004 c 262 s 6; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 416.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2026 c 139 ss 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Findings—2004 c 262: See note following RCW 18.06.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.160
Applicants—Required documentation—Criteria—Rules. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, or licensed practical nurse shall submit to the board:
(a) An attested written application on a department form; and
(b) Any other official records specified by the board.
(2) An applicant for a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse shall also submit to the board written official evidence that the applicant is over the age of 18.
(3) At the time of submission of the application, the applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, or licensed practical nurse must not be in violation of chapter 18.130 RCW or this chapter.
(4) The board shall establish by rule the criteria for evaluating the education of all applicants.
[ 2026 c 139 s 6; 2024 c 239 s 7; 2004 c 262 s 6; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 416.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 139 ss 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Findings—2004 c 262: See note following RCW 18.06.050.

catchline: Applicants—Required documentation—Criteria—Rules. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.170

text:
An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner, or licensed practical nurse must pass an examination in subjects determined by the board. The examination may be supplemented by an oral or practical examination. The board shall establish by rule the requirements for applicants who have failed the examination to qualify for reexamination.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5013; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 417.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.170
Examination—Rules. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, or licensed practical nurse must pass an examination in subjects determined by the board. The examination may be supplemented by an oral or practical examination. The board shall establish by rule the requirements for applicants who have failed the examination to qualify for reexamination.
[ 2024 c 239 s 8; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 417.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.

catchline: Examination—Rules. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.180

text:
The board may issue an interim permit authorizing the applicant to practice registered nursing, advanced registered nursing, or licensed practical nursing, as appropriate, from the time of verification of the completion of the school or training program until notification of the results of the examination. Upon the applicant passing the examination, and if all other requirements established by the board for licensing are met, the department shall issue the applicant a license to practice registered nursing, advanced registered nursing, or licensed practical nursing, as appropriate. If the applicant fails the examination, the interim permit expires upon notification to the applicant, and is not renewable. The holder of an interim permit is subject to chapter 18.130 RCW.
[ 2026 c 139 s 7; 2025 c 58 s 5014; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 418.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2026 c 139 ss 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.180
Interim permits—License—Expiration upon failure. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
The board may issue an interim permit authorizing the applicant to practice registered nursing, advanced practice registered nursing, or licensed practical nursing, as appropriate, from the time of verification of the completion of the school or training program until notification of the results of the examination. Upon the applicant passing the examination, and if all other requirements established by the board for licensing are met, the department shall issue the applicant a license to practice registered nursing, advanced practice registered nursing, or licensed practical nursing, as appropriate. If the applicant fails the examination, the interim permit expires upon notification to the applicant, and is not renewable. The holder of an interim permit is subject to chapter 18.130 RCW.
[ 2026 c 139 s 8; 2024 c 239 s 9; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 418.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 139 ss 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.

catchline: Interim permits—License—Expiration upon failure. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.190

text:
Upon approval of the application by the board, the department shall issue a license by endorsement without examination to practice as a registered nurse or as a licensed practical nurse to a person who is licensed as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse under the laws of another state, territory, or possession of the United States, and who meets all other qualifications for licensing.
An applicant who has graduated from a school or program of nursing outside the United States and is licensed as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse, or their equivalents, outside the United States must meet all qualifications required by this chapter and pass examinations as determined by the board.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5015; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 419.]
Notes:
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.


title: RCW 18.79.200

text:
An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced registered nurse practitioner, or licensed practical nurse shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees as determined under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
[ 1996 c 191 s 62; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 420.]
PDF
RCW 18.79.200
License procedures, requirements, fees. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
An applicant for a license to practice as a registered nurse, advanced practice registered nurse, or licensed practical nurse shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees as determined under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
[ 2024 c 239 s 10; 1996 c 191 s 62; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 420.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.

catchline: License procedures, requirements, fees. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.202

text:
(1) In addition to the licensing fee for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses licensed under this chapter and for nurses who hold a valid multistate license issued by the state of Washington under chapter 18.80 RCW, the department shall impose an additional surcharge of eight dollars per year on all initial licenses and renewal licenses for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses issued under this chapter. *Advanced registered nurse practitioners are only required to pay the surcharge on their registered nurse licenses.
(2) The department, in consultation with the board and the workforce training and education coordinating board, shall use the proceeds from the surcharge imposed under subsection (1) of this section to provide grants to a central nursing resource center. The grants may be awarded only to a not-for-profit central nursing resource center that is comprised of and led by nurses. The central nursing resource center will demonstrate coordination with relevant nursing constituents including professional nursing organizations, groups representing nursing educators, staff nurses, nurse managers or executives, and labor organizations representing nurses. The central nursing resource center shall have as its mission to contribute to the health and wellness of Washington state residents by ensuring that there is an adequate nursing workforce to meet the current and future health care needs of the citizens of the state of Washington. The grants may be used to fund the following activities of the central nursing resource center:
(a) Maintain information on the current and projected supply and demand of nurses through the collection and analysis of data regarding the nursing workforce, including but not limited to education level, race and ethnicity, employment settings, nursing positions, reasons for leaving the nursing profession, and those leaving Washington state to practice elsewhere. This data collection and analysis must complement other state activities to produce data on the nursing workforce and the central nursing resource center shall work collaboratively with other entities in the data collection to ensure coordination and avoid duplication of efforts;
(b) Monitor and validate trends in the applicant pool for programs in nursing. The central nursing resource center must work with nursing leaders to identify approaches to address issues arising related to the trends identified, and collect information on other states' approaches to addressing these issues;
(c) Facilitate partnerships between the nursing community and other health care providers, licensing authority, business and industry, consumers, legislators, and educators to achieve policy consensus, promote diversity within the profession, and enhance nursing career mobility and nursing leadership development;
(d) Evaluate the effectiveness of nursing education and articulation among programs to increase access to nursing education and enhance career mobility, especially for populations that are underrepresented in the nursing profession;
(e) Provide consultation, technical assistance, data, and information related to Washington state and national nursing resources;
(f) Promote strategies to enhance patient safety and quality patient care including encouraging a safe and healthy workplace environment for nurses; and
(g) Educate the public including students in K-12 about opportunities and careers in nursing.
(3) The nursing resource center account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the surcharge in subsection (1) of this section must be deposited in the account. Expenditures from the account may be used only for grants to an organization to conduct the specific activities listed in subsection (2) of this section and to compensate the department for the reasonable costs associated with the collection and distribution of the surcharge and the administration of the grant provided for in subsection (2) of this section. No money from this account may be used by the recipient towards administrative costs of the central nursing resource center not associated with the specific activities listed in subsection (2) of this section. No money from this account may be used by the recipient toward lobbying. Only the secretary or the secretary's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. Grants will be awarded on an annual basis and funds will be distributed quarterly. The department shall distribute the funds no more than 30 days after the central nursing resource center submits to the department an invoice and any additional documentation required by the department. The first distribution after awarding the first grant shall be made no later than six months after July 24, 2005. The central nursing resource center shall report to the department on meeting the grant objectives annually.
(4) The central nursing resource center shall submit a report of all progress, collaboration with other organizations and government entities, and activities conducted by the center to the relevant committees of the legislature by November 30, 2011. The department shall conduct a review of the program to collect funds to support the activities of a nursing resource center and make recommendations on the effectiveness of the program and whether it should continue. The review shall be paid for with funds from the nursing resource center account. The review must be completed by June 30, 2012.
(5) The department may adopt rules as necessary to implement chapter 268, Laws of 2005.
[ 2025 c 399 s 2; 2023 c 123 s 18; 2005 c 268 s 4.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The term "advanced registered nurse practitioner" was changed to "advanced practice registered nurse" by 2024 c 239 s 1, effective June 30, 2027.
Effective dates—2025 c 399 ss 1-13, 15, and 17: See note following RCW 72.09.092.
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.
Finding—2005 c 268: "Washington state is experiencing a critical shortage of registered nurses. To safeguard and promote patient safety and quality of care, the legislature finds that a central resource center for the nursing workforce is critical and essential in addressing the nursing shortage and ensuring that the public continue to receive safe, quality care." [ 2005 c 268 s 1.]

catchline: License fee surcharge—Use of proceeds—Nursing resource center account—Report to the legislature—Review—Rules.


title: RCW 18.79.210

text:
A license issued under this chapter must be renewed, except as provided in this chapter. The licensee shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees as determined under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
[ 1996 c 191 s 63; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 421.]

catchline: License renewal—Procedures, requirements, fees.


title: RCW 18.79.230

text:
A person licensed under this chapter who desires to retire temporarily from registered nursing practice, advanced registered nursing practice, or licensed practical nursing practice in this state shall send a written notice to the secretary.
Upon receipt of the notice the department shall place the name of the person on inactive status. While remaining on this status the person shall not practice in this state any form of nursing provided for in this chapter. When the person desires to resume practice, the person shall apply to the board for renewal of the license and pay a renewal fee to the state treasurer. Persons on inactive status for three years or more must provide evidence of knowledge and skill of current practice as required by the board or as provided in this chapter.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5016; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 423.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.230
Temporary retirement—Renewal—Fee—Qualification. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
A person licensed under this chapter who desires to retire temporarily from registered nursing practice, advanced practice registered nursing, or licensed practical nursing practice in this state shall send a written notice to the secretary.
Upon receipt of the notice the department shall place the name of the person on inactive status. While remaining on this status the person shall not practice in this state any form of nursing provided for in this chapter. When the person desires to resume practice, the person shall apply to the board for renewal of the license and pay a renewal fee to the state treasurer. Persons on inactive status for three years or more must provide evidence of knowledge and skill of current practice as required by the board or as provided in this chapter.
[ 2024 c 239 s 11; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 423.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.

catchline: Temporary retirement—Renewal—Fee—Qualification. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.240

text:
(1) In the context of the definition of registered nursing practice and advanced registered nursing practice, this chapter shall not be construed as:
(a) Prohibiting the incidental care of the sick by domestic servants or persons primarily employed as housekeepers, so long as they do not practice registered nursing within the meaning of this chapter;
(b) Preventing a person from the domestic administration of family remedies or the furnishing of nursing assistance in case of emergency;
(c) Prohibiting the practice of nursing by students enrolled in approved schools as may be incidental to their course of study or prohibiting the students from working as nursing technicians;
(d) Prohibiting auxiliary services provided by persons carrying out duties necessary for the support of nursing services, including those duties that involve minor nursing services for persons performed in hospitals, nursing homes, or elsewhere under the direction of licensed physicians or the supervision of licensed registered nurses;
(e) Prohibiting the practice of nursing in this state by a legally qualified nurse of another state or territory whose engagement requires him or her to accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state during the period of one such engagement, not to exceed six months in length, if the person does not represent or hold himself or herself out as a registered nurse licensed to practice in this state;
(f) Prohibiting nursing or care of the sick, with or without compensation, when done in connection with the practice of the religious tenets of a church by adherents of the church so long as they do not engage in the practice of nursing as defined in this chapter;
(g) Prohibiting the practice of a legally qualified nurse of another state who is employed by the United States government or a bureau, division, or agency thereof, while in the discharge of his or her official duties;
(h) Permitting the measurement of the powers or range of human vision, or the determination of the accommodation and refractive state of the human eye or the scope of its functions in general, or the fitting or adaptation of lenses for the aid thereof;
(i) Permitting the prescribing or directing the use of, or using, an optical device in connection with ocular exercises, visual training, vision training, or orthoptics;
(j) Permitting the prescribing of contact lenses for, or the fitting and adaptation of contact lenses to, the human eye;
(k) Prohibiting the performance of routine visual screening;
(l) Permitting the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene as defined in chapters 18.32 and 18.29 RCW, respectively;
(m) Permitting the practice of chiropractic as defined in chapter 18.25 RCW including the adjustment or manipulation of the articulation of the spine;
(n) Permitting the practice of podiatric medicine and surgery as defined in chapter 18.22 RCW;
(o) Permitting the performance of major surgery, except such minor surgery as the board may have specifically authorized by rule adopted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW;
(p) Permitting the prescribing of controlled substances as defined in Schedule I of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW;
(q) Prohibiting the determination and pronouncement of death;
(r) Prohibiting advanced registered nurse practitioners, approved by the board as certified registered nurse anesthetists and who have not obtained prescriptive authority prior to July 1, 2026, from selecting, ordering, or administering controlled substances as defined in Schedules II through IV of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, consistent with their board-recognized scope of practice; subject to facility-specific protocols, and subject to a request for certified registered nurse anesthetist anesthesia services issued by a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, a dentist licensed under chapter 18.32 RCW, or a podiatric physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.22 RCW; the authority to select, order, or administer Schedule II through IV controlled substances being limited to those drugs that are to be directly administered to patients who require anesthesia for diagnostic, operative, obstetrical, or therapeutic procedures in a hospital, clinic, ambulatory surgical facility, or the office of a practitioner licensed under chapter 18.71, 18.22, 18.36, 18.36A, 18.57, or 18.32 RCW; "select" meaning the decision-making process of choosing a drug, dosage, route, and time of administration; and "order" meaning the process of directing licensed individuals pursuant to their statutory authority to directly administer a drug or to dispense, deliver, or distribute a drug for the purpose of direct administration to a patient, under instructions of the certified registered nurse anesthetist. "Protocol" means a statement regarding practice and documentation concerning such items as categories of patients, categories of medications, or categories of procedures rather than detailed case-specific formulas for the practice of nurse anesthesia;
(s) Prohibiting advanced registered nurse practitioners from ordering or prescribing controlled substances as defined in Schedules II through IV of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, if and to the extent that doing so is permitted by their scope of practice;
(t) Prohibiting the practice of registered nursing or advanced registered nursing by a student enrolled in an approved school if:
(i) The student performs services without compensation or expectation of compensation as part of a volunteer activity;
(ii) The student is under the direct supervision of a registered nurse or advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under this chapter, a pharmacist licensed under chapter 18.64 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW;
(iii) The services the student performs are within the scope of practice of: (A) The nursing profession for which the student is receiving training; and (B) the person supervising the student;
(iv) The school in which the student is enrolled verifies the student has demonstrated competency through his or her education and training to perform the services; and
(v) The student provides proof of current malpractice insurance to the volunteer activity organizer prior to performing any services.
(2) In the context of the definition of licensed practical nursing practice, this chapter shall not be construed as:
(a) Prohibiting the incidental care of the sick by domestic servants or persons primarily employed as housekeepers, so long as they do not practice practical nursing within the meaning of this chapter;
(b) Preventing a person from the domestic administration of family remedies or the furnishing of nursing assistance in case of emergency;
(c) Prohibiting the practice of practical nursing by students enrolled in approved schools as may be incidental to their course of study or prohibiting the students from working as nursing assistants;
(d) Prohibiting auxiliary services provided by persons carrying out duties necessary for the support of nursing services, including those duties that involve minor nursing services for persons performed in hospitals, nursing homes, or elsewhere under the direction of licensed physicians or the supervision of licensed registered nurses;
(e) Prohibiting or preventing the practice of nursing in this state by a legally qualified nurse of another state or territory whose engagement requires him or her to accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state during the period of one such engagement, not to exceed six months in length, if the person does not represent or hold himself or herself out as a licensed practical nurse licensed to practice in this state;
(f) Prohibiting nursing or care of the sick, with or without compensation, when done in connection with the practice of the religious tenets of a church by adherents of the church so long as they do not engage in licensed practical nurse practice as defined in this chapter;
(g) Prohibiting the practice of a legally qualified nurse of another state who is employed by the United States government or any bureau, division, or agency thereof, while in the discharge of his or her official duties.
[ 2026 c 139 s 9; 2025 c 58 s 5017; 2020 c 80 s 17; 2019 c 270 s 4; 2005 c 28 s 1; 2003 c 258 s 6; 2000 c 64 s 3; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 424.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2026 c 139 ss 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Severability—Effective date—2003 c 258: See notes following RCW 18.79.330.
Effective date—2000 c 64 ss 1-3: See note following RCW 18.79.050.
Severability—2000 c 64: See note following RCW 18.79.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.240
Construction. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) In the context of the definition of registered nursing practice and advanced practice registered nursing, this chapter shall not be construed as:
(a) Prohibiting the incidental care of the sick by domestic servants or persons primarily employed as housekeepers, so long as they do not practice registered nursing within the meaning of this chapter;
(b) Preventing a person from the domestic administration of family remedies or the furnishing of nursing assistance in case of emergency;
(c) Prohibiting the practice of nursing by students enrolled in approved schools as may be incidental to their course of study or prohibiting the students from working as nursing technicians;
(d) Prohibiting auxiliary services provided by persons carrying out duties necessary for the support of nursing services, including those duties that involve minor nursing services for persons performed in hospitals, nursing homes, or elsewhere under the direction of licensed physicians or the supervision of licensed registered nurses;
(e) Prohibiting the practice of nursing in this state by a legally qualified nurse of another state or territory whose engagement requires him or her to accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state during the period of one such engagement, not to exceed six months in length, if the person does not represent or hold himself or herself out as a registered nurse licensed to practice in this state;
(f) Prohibiting nursing or care of the sick, with or without compensation, when done in connection with the practice of the religious tenets of a church by adherents of the church so long as they do not engage in the practice of nursing as defined in this chapter;
(g) Prohibiting the practice of a legally qualified nurse of another state who is employed by the United States government or a bureau, division, or agency thereof, while in the discharge of his or her official duties;
(h) Permitting the measurement of the powers or range of human vision, or the determination of the accommodation and refractive state of the human eye or the scope of its functions in general, or the fitting or adaptation of lenses for the aid thereof;
(i) Permitting the prescribing or directing the use of, or using, an optical device in connection with ocular exercises, visual training, vision training, or orthoptics;
(j) Permitting the prescribing of contact lenses for, or the fitting and adaptation of contact lenses to, the human eye;
(k) Prohibiting the performance of routine visual screening;
(l) Permitting the practice of dentistry or dental hygiene as defined in chapters 18.32 and 18.29 RCW, respectively;
(m) Permitting the practice of chiropractic as defined in chapter 18.25 RCW including the adjustment or manipulation of the articulation of the spine;
(n) Permitting the practice of podiatric medicine and surgery as defined in chapter 18.22 RCW;
(o) Permitting the performance of major surgery, except such minor surgery as the board may have specifically authorized by rule adopted in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW;
(p) Permitting the prescribing of controlled substances as defined in Schedule I of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW;
(q) Prohibiting the determination and pronouncement of death;
(r) Prohibiting advanced practice registered nurses, approved by the board as certified registered nurse anesthetists and who have not obtained prescriptive authority prior to July 1, 2026, from selecting, ordering, or administering controlled substances as defined in Schedules II through IV of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, consistent with their board-recognized scope of practice; subject to facility-specific protocols, and subject to a request for certified registered nurse anesthetist anesthesia services issued by a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, a dentist licensed under chapter 18.32 RCW, or a podiatric physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.22 RCW; the authority to select, order, or administer Schedule II through IV controlled substances being limited to those drugs that are to be directly administered to patients who require anesthesia for diagnostic, operative, obstetrical, or therapeutic procedures in a hospital, clinic, ambulatory surgical facility, or the office of a practitioner licensed under chapter 18.71, 18.22, 18.36, 18.36A, 18.57, or 18.32 RCW; "select" meaning the decision-making process of choosing a drug, dosage, route, and time of administration; and "order" meaning the process of directing licensed individuals pursuant to their statutory authority to directly administer a drug or to dispense, deliver, or distribute a drug for the purpose of direct administration to a patient, under instructions of the certified registered nurse anesthetist. "Protocol" means a statement regarding practice and documentation concerning such items as categories of patients, categories of medications, or categories of procedures rather than detailed case-specific formulas for the practice of nurse anesthesia;
(s) Prohibiting advanced practice registered nurses from ordering or prescribing controlled substances as defined in Schedules II through IV of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, if and to the extent that doing so is permitted by their scope of practice;
(t) Prohibiting the practice of registered nursing or advanced practice registered nursing by a student enrolled in an approved school if:
(i) The student performs services without compensation or expectation of compensation as part of a volunteer activity;
(ii) The student is under the direct supervision of a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse licensed under this chapter, a pharmacist licensed under chapter 18.64 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW;
(iii) The services the student performs are within the scope of practice of: (A) The nursing profession for which the student is receiving training; and (B) the person supervising the student;
(iv) The school in which the student is enrolled verifies the student has demonstrated competency through his or her education and training to perform the services; and
(v) The student provides proof of current malpractice insurance to the volunteer activity organizer prior to performing any services.
(2) In the context of the definition of licensed practical nursing practice, this chapter shall not be construed as:
(a) Prohibiting the incidental care of the sick by domestic servants or persons primarily employed as housekeepers, so long as they do not practice practical nursing within the meaning of this chapter;
(b) Preventing a person from the domestic administration of family remedies or the furnishing of nursing assistance in case of emergency;
(c) Prohibiting the practice of practical nursing by students enrolled in approved schools as may be incidental to their course of study or prohibiting the students from working as nursing assistants;
(d) Prohibiting auxiliary services provided by persons carrying out duties necessary for the support of nursing services, including those duties that involve minor nursing services for persons performed in hospitals, nursing homes, or elsewhere under the direction of licensed physicians or the supervision of licensed registered nurses;
(e) Prohibiting or preventing the practice of nursing in this state by a legally qualified nurse of another state or territory whose engagement requires him or her to accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state during the period of one such engagement, not to exceed six months in length, if the person does not represent or hold himself or herself out as a licensed practical nurse licensed to practice in this state;
(f) Prohibiting nursing or care of the sick, with or without compensation, when done in connection with the practice of the religious tenets of a church by adherents of the church so long as they do not engage in licensed practical nurse practice as defined in this chapter;
(g) Prohibiting the practice of a legally qualified nurse of another state who is employed by the United States government or any bureau, division, or agency thereof, while in the discharge of his or her official duties.
[ 2026 c 139 s 10; 2024 c 239 s 12; 2020 c 80 s 17; 2019 c 270 s 4; 2005 c 28 s 1; 2003 c 258 s 6; 2000 c 64 s 3; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 424.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 139 ss 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Effective date—2020 c 80 ss 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.
Severability—Effective date—2003 c 258: See notes following RCW 18.79.330.
Effective date—2000 c 64 ss 1-3: See note following RCW 18.79.050.
Severability—2000 c 64: See note following RCW 18.79.050.

catchline: Construction. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.250

text:
An advanced registered nurse practitioner under his or her license may perform for compensation nursing care, as that term is usually understood, of the ill, injured, or infirm, and in the course thereof, she or he may do the following things that shall not be done by a person not so licensed, except as provided in RCW 18.79.260 and 18.79.270:
(1) Perform specialized and advanced levels of nursing as recognized by the nursing profession, as defined by the board;
(2) Prescribe legend drugs and Schedule V controlled substances, as defined in the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, and Schedules II through IV subject to RCW 18.79.240(1) (r) or (s) within the scope of practice defined by the board;
(3) Perform all acts provided in RCW 18.79.260;
(4) Hold herself or himself out to the public or designate herself or himself as an advanced registered nurse practitioner, certified nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, certified registered nurse anesthetist, or certified clinical nurse specialist.
[ 2026 c 139 s 11; 2025 c 58 s 5018; 2000 c 64 s 4; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 425.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2026 c 139 ss 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Expiration date—2025 c 58 ss 5004, 5005, 5006, 5010, 5012, 5013, 5014, 5016, 5017, 5018, 5019, 5020, 5024, 5029, 5030, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5053, and 5055: See note following RCW 18.79.040.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.
Severability—2000 c 64: See note following RCW 18.79.050.
PDF
RCW 18.79.250
Advanced practice registered nurse—Activities allowed. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
An advanced practice registered nurse under his or her license may perform for compensation nursing care, as that term is usually understood, of the ill, injured, or infirm, and in the course thereof, she or he may do the following things that shall not be done by a person not so licensed, except as provided in RCW 18.79.260 and 18.79.270:
(1) Perform specialized and advanced levels of nursing as recognized by the nursing profession, as defined by the board;
(2) Prescribe legend drugs and Schedule V controlled substances, as defined in the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, chapter 69.50 RCW, and Schedules II through IV subject to RCW 18.79.240(1) (r) or (s) within the scope of practice defined by the board;
(3) Perform all acts provided in RCW 18.79.260;
(4) Hold herself or himself out to the public or designate herself or himself as an advanced practice registered nurse, certified nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, certified registered nurse anesthetist, or certified clinical nurse specialist.
[ 2026 c 139 s 12; 2024 c 239 s 13; 2000 c 64 s 4; 1994 sp.s. c 9 s 425.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 139 ss 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12: See note following RCW 18.79.020.
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.
Severability—2000 c 64: See note following RCW 18.79.050.

catchline: Advanced registered nurse practitioner—Activities allowed. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.79.256

text:
An advanced registered nurse practitioner may sign and attest to any certificates, cards, forms, or other required documentation that a physician may sign, so long as it is within the advanced registered nurse practitioner's scope of practice.
[ 2015 c 104 s 1.]
PDF
RCW 18.79.256
Advanced practice registered nurse—Scope of practice—Document attestation. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
An advanced practice registered nurse may sign and attest to any certificates, cards, forms, or other required documentation that a physician may sign, so long as it is within the advanced practice registered nurse's scope of practice.
[ 2024 c 239 s 14; 2015 c 104 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2024 c 239: See note following RCW 18.79.030.

catchline: Advanced registered nurse practitioner—Scope of practice—Document attestation. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)