Florida Nurse Practice Act: Laws and Rules for Florida Nurses

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The Florida Board of Nursing is the regulatory body that ensures individuals are qualified to practice nursing in Florida. The essential functions include initial licensing, enforcing disciplinary actions, and overseeing continuing education for nurses. Additionally, the board monitors compliance with settlement agreements in cases of infractions and supervises the rehabilitation of disciplined members seeking to resume their nursing practice.

The Florida Board of Nursing establishes minimum standards of care for nurses to ensure safe and competent healthcare delivery across various settings. Failure to meet these standards may result in the forfeiture of licensure and the inability to practice nursing in Florida. The Nurse Practice Act, enacted by the Florida Legislature, provides a framework for delivering safe, professional nursing care and offers essential protection for patients seeking such services.[2024 Florida Statutes]

The Florida Department of State Administrative Code, Register, and Laws Section serves as the rulemaking authority for state regulatory agencies. Agency rulemaking is governed by Chapter 120 of the Florida Statutes and the Administrative Procedures Act, with regulations published in the Florida Administrative Code (FLrules.org, About Us). Florida Administrative Code section 64B9, overseen by the Florida Department of State, outlines laws and information governing essential aspects of nursing licensure and professional conduct.[2024 Florida Statutes]

Nurse Practice Acts, enacted by all states and territories in the United States over 100 years ago, were designed to protect the public and establish nursing boards with the authority to develop specific regulations. These regulations ensure that laws are tailored to the nursing profession, providing clarity for license holders. Board rules must align with the legislation enacted and adopted under the Nurse Practice Act in each state or territory. The rules and regulations set forth by nursing boards carry the full force of the law and are enforceable.[NCSBN.org]

Nursing professionals must be familiar with their state's specific Nurse Practice Act as mandated by law. Healthcare professionals are responsible for staying informed about current regulations and cannot claim ignorance in legal matters. A misunderstanding or lack of knowledge of the law does not absolve them of responsibility and is not considered a valid excuse.