Nurse Reporter Winter 2007 - Wyoming State Board of Nursing

Nurse
R E P O R T E R
Winter 2007
WYOMING
VOL. 2 NUMBER 4
Compact Nursing—
What Is It and What It
Would Mean to You
Koski Appointed
to NCSBN Board
of Directors

Nurse
R E P O R T E R
Winter 2007
WYOMING
VOL. 2 NUMBER 4
Compact Nursing—
What Is It and What It
Would Mean to You
Koski Appointed
to NCSBN Board
of Directors

WYOMING
Published by the
Wyoming State Board of Nursing
1810 Pioneer Ave.
Cheyenne, Wyoming 82002
Phone: 307-777-7601
Fax: 307-777-3519
Web Address: http://nursing.state.wy.us
Agency Mission: The Wyoming State Board of
Nursing is responsible for the protection of the public’s
health, welfare, and safety through the regulation of
nursing, nursing education, nursing practice, and disciplinary
standards. The responsibility of the Board of
Nursing is to implement a cost-effective and efficient
system of regulation , which meets the consumer
demand for safe, competent, ethical practitioners of
nursing which includes advanced practice nurses, registered
professional nurses, licensed practical nurses, and
certified nursing assistants.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Cheryl Koski, MN, RN
PRACTICE AND EDUCATION CONSULTANT AND
ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Vacant
COMPLIANCE CONSULTANT
Karen Ouzts, PhD, RN
FINANCIAL AND HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Deebs Sullivan
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
JoAnn Reid
EXAMINATION COORDINATOR
Trish Newberry
LICENSING COORDINATOR
LaVelle Ojeda
PARALEGAL
Gayle Chesney
Wyoming Nurse Reporter does not necessarily
endorse advertisements contained herein. The
publisher reserves the right to accept or reject
advertisements for Wyoming Nurse Reporter.
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:
Greg Jones
gjones@pcipublishing.com
501.221.9986 or 800.561.4686
CREATED BY:
Publishing Concepts, Inc.
Virginia Robertson, President
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Publishing Concepts, Inc.
14109 Taylor Loop Road
Little Rock, AR 72223
Nurse W
Winter 2007
VOL. 2 NUMBER 4
R E P O R T E R
“protecting the public through excellence in nursing...”
BOARD OF NURSING MEMBERS
Parry Davison, MSN, CRNA, RN President
Shirley Harris, MSN, MBA, RN Vice-President
Kim Williamson, LPN
Secretary
Baerbel Merrill, MS, BSN, RNC Member
Janet Harp, MSN, RN
Member
Kellie Clausen, FNP, WHCNP, RN Member
CONSUMER - VACANT
T ABLE OF C ONTENTS
4 Notice of Board Vacancies
6 Compact Nursing
8 Scope of Practice Issues
10 Koski Appointed To Board Of Directors, NCSBN
10 Philippines Selected Testing Site For NCLEX ® Examinations
11 CGFNS Denies Visascreen® Certificates for Philippine Nurses
11 Board Agrees To NURSYS ® License Verification System
12 Leveling the Roles of a CNA through Expanded Training
13 Disciplinary Actions
13 On-Line License Verification
14 From The Licensing Department
Greetings
FROM
C HERYL
Iwould like to take this opportunity to
thank each and every one of you for
your patience during the past few
months during the renewal period. We
know it can get very frustrating when you
are trying to call and find all the lines are
busy and your call goes to voice mail.
During this past renewal period
(October 01, 2006 – December 31, 2006),
the Board renewed the licenses of 10,352
licensees which is a 17% increase over the
last renewal period in 2004 (9,642
licensees). In addition, since January 1,
2007, the Board has licensed another 778
licensees bringing our current totals to
11,130 (349 advanced practice registered
nurses, 5859 registered professional nurses,
1045 licensed practical nurses, and 3877
certified nursing assistants).
The Board is also looking at promulgating
new Administrative Rules and
K OSKI, MN, RN
THE
E XECUTIVE
D IRECTOR
Regulations. The Board hopes to have
these out for Public Comment in April
2007. One of the areas the Board is looking
at expanding is the role of the certified
nursing assistant. In this publication, you
will see a survey which we ask you to
complete and mail or fax back to Dr.
Marcia Dale or to the Board Office. This
survey requests licensed nurses to identify
what specific tasks/functions you would
like to see additionally delegated to the
certified nursing assistant following additional
education and training. Your input
is extremely valuable to us and I encourage
you to take a moment and complete
the survey.
The Board looks forward to the coming
year and welcomes comments, suggestions
or questions. Please do not hesitate to visit
our web site at http://nursing .state.wy.us,
e-mail us at wynursing@state.wy.us or telephone
us at 307-777-7601.
EDITION 8
W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R 3

NOTICE OF
BOARD
VACANCIES
Cheryl L. Koski, MN, RN
Executive Director
The Wyoming State Board of Nursing will have
three (3) vacancies occurring February 28, 2007.
All three of the vacancies are for a three year term.
Board Members are appointed by the Governor
and must meet the statutory and eligibility requirements
for each specific vacancy in order to serve.
Members appointed may be re-appointed to
serve an additional three year term. Board
Members appointed to fill an unexpired term may
be re-appointed to serve two additional consecutive
three year terms. Membership on the Board is
restricted to no more than one person who is associated
with a particular agency, educational institution,
corporation or other enterprise or subsidiary
at one time.
Complete statutes detailing the qualifying
requirements for membership on the Board of
Nursing can be found at http://legisweb.state.wy.us/
statutes/statutes.htm or at the Board of Nursing
web site at http://nursing.state.wy.us. The
Governor is very interested in giving as many citizens
as possible the opportunity to participate on
Boards and Commissions. Geographic diversity is a
priority with the Governor.
The following positions are vacant on the
Board of Nursing:
1) Registered Nurse — the RN position must be
a resident of the state, licensed in good standing,
currently engaged in the practice of registered
nursing with no less than five years
experience in this position, at least three of
which immediately precede appointment.
This applicant shall have at least two years of
experience in an administrative or teaching
position in a nursing education program.
2) Registered Nurse — the RN position must be
a resident of the state, licensed in good standing,
currently engaged in the practice of registered
nursing with no less than five years
experience in this position, at least three of
which immediately precede appointment.
This applicant shall be appointed from various
areas of nursing.
3) Consumer — the public representative position
must be a resident of the state, must have
attained the age of majority, must be interested
in consumer health concerns and shall not be,
nor ever have been, licensed or employed as a
provider of health care services or be enrolled
in any health related educational program.
Persons interested in applying for one of the
vacancies on the Board or for an application
should contact Patti Burns in the Governor’s
Office at 307-777-5647 or visit the Governor’s web
site at http://www.state.wy.us/governor. Completed
applications must be in to the Governor’s Office
one month before the vacancy date. Persons may
also contact Cheryl Koski at the Board Office at
307-777-6121 or ckoski@state.wy.us for further
information regarding these vacancies.
4 W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
OF
CARBON COUNTY
PROUD TO HAVE THE
BEST OF THE BEST…
Wendy Thorvaldson, RN, BSN
Only one nurse is recognized annually within the State of Wyoming to receive this prestigious award.
Candidates must have demonstrated concern for the profession and its improvement, improved
skills and knowledge, respect by peers, compassion for patients and family members, creativity and
innovation in nursing care, dedication to providing the highest quality care possible, and a positive
work approach to superiors, peers, and subordinates.
We are fortunate to have Wendy on our staff—serving our community through dedication and hard
work as manager of our ICU Department. Wendy is a visionary and dynamic leader who excels in
her field, taking pride in her career and the nursing profession.
We congratulate Wendy on this tremendous accomplishment!
To work with someone like Wendy—take the next step...
For information about employment at Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, Preceptor
and Internship opportunities, or our Nursing Scholarship Program Please contact:
Stormy Lower
HR/PR Retention & Recruitment Coordinator
1-800-967-1817 ext. 290 or
e-mail: slower@imhcc.com
Your career is important to you, and it is important to us…
Great opportunities to learn a variety of skills
Excellent internship and preceptor programs
Local opportunities for education
Exceptional benefits package
Advancement opportunities
And most importantly… Great staff!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: www.imhcc.com
W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R 5

Compact Nursing
What Is It and What It
Would Mean To You
Compact nursing was a topic considered
in this year’s Wyoming
Legislature. It did not progress
through the system, however, it is an
issue that the Board of Nursing has
been working on for the past few
years. Nurses in Wyoming need to
be knowledgeable about the term
and what it would mean to them, if
the law were passed and rules and
regulations were written to implement
the Nurse Licensure Compact
(NLC). The NLC is administered by
the Nurse Licensure Compact
Administrators (NLCA).
■ What is it: According to the
Nurse Licensure Compact, the NLC
is a mutual recognition model of
nurse licensure that allows a nurse
to have one license in his/her state
of residency and to practice in other
states who are part of the Compact.
This practice may be physical or
electronic. So, you, the nurse,
would be licensed in the state in
which you live, but you could practice
in states that belong to the
NLC, knowing that you are subject
to each state’s practice laws and discipline.
Currently, there are 23
states that belong; 20 have implemented
the compact. States
around Wyoming that have implemented
the Compact are Nebraska,
Idaho, Utah, and South Dakota.
WSBN, Memorandum August,
2006). Colorado has passed legislation
regarding the Compact but has
not begun implementation.
■ Why have it: The purposes of
the NLC are to: facilitate the states’
responsibility to protect the public’s
health and safety; ensure and
encourage the cooperation of party
states in the areas of nurse licensure
and regulation; facilitate the
exchange of information between
states; promote compliance with the
laws governing the practice of nursing;
invest all party states with the
authority to hold a nurse accountable
for meeting all state practice
laws in the state in which the
patient is located at the time care is
rendered. (Nurse Licensure
Compact, November,1998).
■ How is it implemented: In
order to achieve mutual recognition,
each state must enact legislation
authorizing the NLC. Once the
Wyoming Legislature enacts law
authorizing a NLC, the Wyoming
State Board of Nursing (WSBN)
would then need to adopt and promulgate
the Rules and Regulations for
the NLC that have been established
by the NLCA to implement the law.
The NLC and the Rules and
Regulations may not be modified
without consent of the member
states. Both the home state and the
states in the agreement may take
disciplinary actions. The home state
may take licensure action while the
remote state may limit or deny the
privilege to practice in their state.
■ What problems, concerns, or
issues does NLC present: The
WSBN works to protect the public
against unsafe practice. To do this,
the State requires all licensees in
Wyoming to undergo a Criminal
Background Check. If Wyoming
were to become a member of the
Compact, licensees from some of the
Compact states could practice in
Wyoming without having had a
Criminal Background Check. That
means that some licensees might
have been convicted of such things
as drug diversion, sexual assault,
fraud, or abuse and yet still practice
in Wyoming.
If a complaint is filed against a
nurse in a remote state, that state
6 W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R

must investigate the complaint and
decide whether or not the nurse can
continue to practice in that state.
In addition, Wyoming, where the
nurse is licensed, is required to
investigate the complaint and
decide whether or not the nurse can
continue to be licensed. This means
that two states are investigating
incidents across state lines and the
cost of discipline is doubled.
In order to investigate the disciplinary
cases, states are required to
share information. However, even
though NLC is based on trust, flexibility,
communication, and collaboration,
the sharing of information is
also based on state laws. State laws
governing the sharing of information
regarding disciplinary actions
are not consistent. Because NLC
allows increased mobility of nurses,
the ability to evade discipline exists,
and states have difficulty tracking
the nurses.
Educational preparation and standards
related to licensure are also
concerns of the Board of Nursing.
The NLC means that the lowest
common denominator of standards
would exist. Wyoming must unconditionally
accept nurses’ licenses
from other states regardless of
whether those states require equally
rigorous licensure standards.
An issue the healthcare agencies in
Wyoming may need to be concerned
about is the possible depletion of the
nursing pool in Wyoming. Nurses
would be able to live in Wyoming but
work in adjoining states that pay
higher wages and have lower licensure
fees resulting in a migration of
nurses to bordering states.
The final concern of the WSBN
is the loss of revenue to the Board.
The loss is based on verification of
licensure, endorsement fees, and
renewal fees. There is also an
increased cost associated with the
NLCA and maintenance of
NURSYS, the database system all
states are required to use.
Additional costs include the need
for staff who must be employed to
oversee the implementation of the
NLC and assist with the increased
disciplinary workload. The only way
for the Board to recoup these costs is
to increase licensure fees for the
nurses in Wyoming.
■ What benefits are associated
with the NLC: It is common
knowledge that nurses now extend
their practices across state lines due
to electronic medicine, consolidated
health care agencies, and managed
care. All licensed nurses would
have increased mobility between
states, so traveling nurses would be
free to move about. There could be
an increase in the nursing workforce,
as nurses would be able to
practice in a state without licensure
barriers. Nurses would be readily
available to assist during times of
disaster. Telenursing could be utilized
across state lines via telephone,
videoconferencing, etc. Nurses
could receive rapid licensure verification
because NURSYS provides
online access.
■ How to achieve success of
NLC: The concept of the NLC has
been discussed since 1996. It officially
began in January, 2000, when
five states passed it into law. The
Board has been working towards the
goal of Compact implementation
over the past couple of years.
However, this would be a new system
of licensure in Wyoming if
adopted by the legislature in the
future. The key to success in
Wyoming is communication, collaboration,
information sharing, education,
technical assistance, and standardization.
All those involved need
to be made aware of the benefits and
the problems.
■ Summary: The Nurse Licensure
Compact is a state nursing license
recognized nationally and enforced
locally. You, the nurse, would have
a license in your home state, in this
case, Wyoming, but would be able to
practice in other states within the
Compact. In order for this to happen,
the Wyoming Legislature must
pass a statute allowing Wyoming to
enter into the Nurse Licensure
Compact. The Wyoming State
Board of Nursing would then adopt
Rules and Regulations, implementing
the agreement between the compact
states. You need to be aware
that there are benefits to nurses, the
public, health care institutions, and
governing bodies. You also need to
know the concerns and problems
associated with a NLC such as
depletion of the nursing pool, revenue
loss to the WSBN, increased
costs in maintaining the NLC, discipline
issues, and timely sharing of
information between states.
The information for this article came
from the Wyoming State Board of
Nursing, a memorandum written by
Cheryl Koski, Executive Director,
Wyoming State Board of Nursing, to
the Honorable Governor Dave
Freudenthal, August, 2006; Slides of the
Wyoming State Board of Nursing; the
Nurse Licensure Compact
Administrators, Final Version,
November 6, 1998, and the National
Council of State Boards of Nursing.
W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R 7

S COPE OF P RACTICE I SSUES
Cheryl Koski, MN, RN, Executive Director
The following Advisory Opinions were
issued at the October 9-12, 2006
Board Meeting.
STERILE SPECULUM EXAM
TO DETERMINE PREMATURE
RUPTURE OF MEMBRANES – RN
Advisory Opinion Number:
06 - 165
Board Meeting Date:
October 9-10, 2006
The Practice Committee reviewed a
request from Penny Blount, RNC,
Director of Obstetric Unit,
Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater
County, Rock Springs, WY. Ms.
Blount requested an Advisory
Opinion regarding whether or not a
Register Professional Nurse may perform
a sterile speculum examination
for the purpose of determining premature
rupture of membranes in a
pregnant patient.
The Practice Committee reviewed
the original request and the additional
materials you sent. Upon the
recommendation from the Practice
Committee, the Board voted after
discussion that it is within the
scope of the Registered Professional
Nurse to perform sterile speculum
exams to determine premature rupture
of membranes in a pregnant
patient with the guidelines listed
below and according to the protocol
in the facility.
• The nurse must have the proper
education and training and documented
demonstrated competency
in the performance of
sterile speculum procedures;
• There must be a follow-up by
the licensed independent
healthcare provider within
twelve (12) hours following
the speculum examination by
the nurse regardless of the outcome
of the test results.
Approved: October 10, 2006
Reviewed:
Revised:
USE OF MEDIPLANNERS IN
SCHOOLS – RN
Advisory Opinion Number:
06 - 166
Board Meeting Date:
October 9-10, 2006
The Practice Committee reviewed a
request from Susie Delger RN, FNP,
Nursing Coordinator at Natrona
Count School District 1, Casper,
WY. Ms. Delger requested an
Advisory Opinion regarding the use
of mediplanners in schools in place
of the current practice of administering
medications from the original
container marked with the correct
information (child name, dosage,
and physician/APRN/PA name).
Upon recommendation of the
Practice Committee the Board voted
that school nurses should follow the
existing state medication policy and
procedures and administer medications
from the original container.
Approved: October 10, 2006
Reviewed:
Revised:
CLARIFICATION OF PROPOFOL
ADVISORY OPINIONS - RN
Advisory Opinion Number:
06 - 167
Board Meeting Date:
October 9-10, 2006
The Practice Committee reviewed
a request for clarification of propofol
Advisory Opinions from
Baerbel Merrill, MS, RNC,
Campbell County Memorial
Hospital, Gillette, WY.
Upon recommendation of the
Practice Committee the Board
voted that the Advisory Opinion
06-163 (Administration of
Anesthetic Agents such as
Propofol, Etomindate and
Ketamine by RNs for IV Conscious
Sedation) does not negate 03-124
(Propofol - RN) or 00-102 (Rapid
Sequence Intubation - RN). In
those situations the RN should follow
those Advisory Opinions.
Approved: October 10, 2006
Reviewed:
Revised:
GASTROSTOMY TUBE
REINSERTION INTO A
MATURE SITE – RN
Advisory Opinion Number:
06 - 168
Board Meeting Date:
October 9-10, 2006
The Practice Committee reviewed a
request from Marilyn Connor, RN,
Central Wyoming Hospice Program,
Casper, WY 82601. Ms. Connor
requested an Advisory Opinion
regarding whether or not is it is
within the scope of practice to
change a Gastrostomy Tube in a
mature stoma site upon the order of
a qualified provider.
Upon recommendation of the
Practice Committee the Board
voted that it is within the scope of
nursing practice for an RN to
change a Gastrostomy Tube in a
mature stoma site upon the order
of a qualified provider. The nurse
must be educationally prepared
and clinically competent in the
performance of the procedure. If
the nurse has any questions as to
the safe performance of the procedure,
the nurse should consult
with the patient’s medical provider
prior to the reinsertion of the
Gastrostomy tube.
Approved: October 10, 2006
Reviewed:
Revised:
8 W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R

TEACHING ADMINISTRATION
OF GLUCAGON TO NON-
LICENSED PERSONNEL IN AN
EMERGENCY - RN
Advisory Opinion Number:
06 - 169
Board Meeting Date:
October 9-10, 2006
The Practice Committee reviewed a
request for reconsideration of a previous
Advisory Opinion (05-147) on
administration of Rhogam by LPNs
from Baerbel Merrill, MS, RNC,
Campbell County Memorial
Hospital, Gillette, WY.
Upon review of additional research
the Practice Committee recommended
and the Board voted that it
is within the scope of LPNs to
administer Rhogam and other IM
blood products.
Approved: October 10, 2006
Reviewed:
Revised:
The Practice Committee reviewed
a request from Susie Delger RN,
FNP, Nursing Coordinator at
Natrona Count School District 1,
Casper, WY. Ms. Delger requested
an Advisory Opinion regarding
whether or not school nurses can
teach someone to administer
glucagon in an emergency (as delegated
by the principle to a willing
person.)
Upon recommendation of the
Practice Committee the Board
voted that it is not within the
scope of practice for a school nurse
to teach an unlicensed, third party
to administer glucagon. In an
emergency, the school personnel
should activate the emergency
response system. The American
Nurses Association recommends
that only routine care be taught to
an unlicensed third party. It is the
practice committee’s opinion that
this teaching be done by a diabetic
educator or physician involved in
the patient’s care.
Approved: October 10, 2006
Reviewed:
Revised:
ADMINISTRATION OF
RHOGAM – LPN
Advisory Opinion Number:
06 - 170
Board Meeting Date:
October 9-10, 2006
Winter 2007
Nurse
VOL. 2 NUMBER 4
WYOMING
Compact Nursing—
What Is It and What It
Would Mean to You
R E P O R T E R
Koski Appointed
to NCSBN Board
of Directors
For Advertising
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Publishing Concepts, Inc.
1.800.561.4686
gjones@pcipublishing.com
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W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R 9

Koski Appointed To Board Of
Directors, National Council
of State Boards of Nursing
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing
(NCSBN) appointed Cheryl Koski, MN, RN,
Executive Director of the Wyoming State Board of
Nursing, as Director at Large of the Board of
Directors of the NCSBN effective December 18,
2006. Ms. Koski’s appointment is effective until
August 31, 2007. The NCSBN is comprised of a
nine-member Board of Directors, and the Executive
Director of the NCSBN who serves as the corporate
secretary. The goal of the NCSBN is to provide leadership
to advance regulatory excellence for public
protection along with the Delegate Assembly, which
is comprised of 60 boards of nursing (NCSBN web
site, http://ncsbn.org/242.htm). Ms. Koski stated that
she is very excited to be appointed to the leadership
team of the NCSBN and looks forward to working
with the Board and the Delegate Assembly in advancing
nursing regulation.
NCSBN Selects The Philippines
As An International Testing Site
For NCLEX ® Examinations
The National Council of State
Boards of Nursing (NCSBN ® ) has
selected Manila, the capital city of
the Philippines, as a new site for the
administration of the NCLEX ®
examinations. NCSBN's Board of
Directors made the decision to
expand the number of sites at its
Feb. 8, 2007, meeting.
Faith Fields, MSN, RN, president,
NCSBN Board of Directors,
comments, “The Philippine government
has shown a deep commitment
to ensuring a secure test center
in Manila and has been very
responsive to NCSBN concerns.
Placing a test site in the Philippines
will allow for greater customer service
to nurses without compromising
the goal of safeguarding the public
health, safety and welfare of
patients in the U.S.”
Offered abroad since January
2005, the current international sites
for NCLEX examinations are in
London, England; Seoul, South
Korea; Hong Kong; Sydney,
Australia; Toronto, Montreal, and
Vancouver, Canada; Frankfurt,
Germany; Mumbai, New Delhi,
Hyderabad, Bangalore, and
Chennai, India; Mexico City,
Mexico; Taipei, Taiwan; and
Chiyoda-ku and Yokohama, Japan.
Intended for the purposes of
domestic nurse licensure in U.S.
states and territories, all security
policies and procedures currently
used to administer the NCLEX
examination domestically will be
fully implemented at this new site.
At this time, no schedule of implementation
has been set.
The National Council of State Boards
of Nursing, Inc. (NCSBN) is a notfor-profit
organization whose membership
comprises the boards of nursing in
the 50 states, the District of Columbia
and four U.S. territories.
Mission: The National Council of
State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN),
composed of Member Boards, provides
leadership to advance regulatory excellence
for public protection.
Media inquiries may be directed to
the contact listed above. Technical
inquiries about the NCLEX examination
may be directed to the
NCLEX information line at
1.866.293.9600 (domestic)
or nclexinfo@ncsbn.org.
+1.312.525.3750 (international)
NCSBN Web site
http://www.ncsbn.org/
Pearson VUE Web site
http://www.pearsonvue.com/
10 W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R

CGFNS Denies Visascreen ® Certificates
for Philippine Nurses Who Passed
the Compromised June 2006
Philippine Licensure Examination
After careful consideration, the
Commission on Graduates of Foreign
Nursing Schools (CGFNS
International) has decided that those
Philippine nurses who were sworn in
as licensed nurses in the Philippines
following their passing the compromised
licensure exam of June 2006
are not eligible for a VisaScreen
Certificate. CGFNS began investigating
this issue soon after the first
reports of irregularities were received
and sent a fact-finding mission to the
Philippines in September 2006.
CGFNS has concluded that the
licensure process for those who
received their license as a result of
passing the compromised June 2006
licensure examination raises significant
questions about the accurate
assessment of the competencies of
many of those individuals.
Therefore, CGFNS is unable to
certify that the licensure is comparable
to a U.S. license. In this instance,
applicable U.S. immigration law will
not permit CGFNS to issue the
VisaScreen Certificate required of
internationally educated health care
workers to those nurses who obtained
Philippine licensure on the basis of
passing the June 2006 nursing licensure
examination. CGFNS notes,
however, that the June 2006 passers
are able to overcome this bar and
qualify for a VisaScreen Certificate
by taking the equivalent of Tests 3
and 5 on a future licensing examination
administered by Philippine regulatory
authorities and obtaining a
passing score.
Consequently, CGFNS urges the
Philippine authorities to provide an
opportunity for re-take of those tests
without surrender of licensure so that
the June 2006 passers may qualify for
the VisaScreen Certificate. The
integrity of foreign licensing systems
ultimately affects the health and safety
of patients in the United States, a
primary consideration of CGFNS in
its role in evaluating candidates under
U.S. immigration law. The decision
announced today is made in support
of this critical mission of CGFNS.
CGFNS is an internationally recognized
authority on credentials evaluation
and verification pertaining to
the education, registration and licensure
of nurses and healthcare professionals
worldwide. CGFNS is an
immigration-neutral, nonprofit organization
with 30 years of experience in
certifying the credentials of over
450,000 internationally educated
nurses and other healthcare workers.
Board Agrees To Particpate —
NURSYS ® License Verification System
The Wyoming Board of Nursing signed a
“Participation Request Agreement” to participate in the
Nursys® database during the January 9-11, 2007 Board
Meeting. In signing this agreement, the Board agreed to
submit Wyoming’s nurse licensing and disciplinary data
to Nursys®. According to the Nursys® web site,
Nursys® is a computer database system that contains
licensure and disciplinary information that has been provided
by member boards of nursing in the United States
and its territories. The purpose of Nursys® is threefold:
(1) verification of applicant licensure information; (2)
entering and review of disciplinary actions; and (3) provide
electronic communication between member boards
of nursing. The public is provided access to Nursys® for
the purpose of licensure verification.
Once the Board completes the process of conversion
to the Nursys® database system with the National
Council of State Boards of Nursing, the Wyoming
Board of Nursing will no longer perform licensure verification
for applicants for licensure. Verification of licensure
will occur through the National Council of State
Boards of Nursing at a fee of $30.00 per applicant. The
Board will keep you apprised of its conversion to this
system as we progress.
W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R 11

Leveling the Roles of a CNA
through Expanded Training
The Wyoming Board of Nursing along with the Wyoming Nurses Association
and other interested nursing groups have been working this past year formulating a
plan to expand the role of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to meet the
needs of nurses and healthcare in the state. The Board would like to have the proposed
“Expanded Role of the CNA” incorporated into their Board Administrative
Rules and Regulations which will be promulgated in April 2007. To meet our goal,
we are asking your assistance.
CNAs are invaluable team members, without a doubt. Expanding their duties
and responsibilities through further training and safe delegation of nursing tasks by
registered nurses may assist in the provision of quality nursing care in this era of low
nursing supply. The Board is proposing two levels of CNA’s. A Level 1 CNA
would perform basic nursing skills and personal care activities currently in the
Wyoming Rules and Regulations and as required by the Code of Federal
Regulations. A Level II CNA would perform additional nursing tasks/skills such as
elimination, oxygenation, and nutrition and administration of specified medications
consistent with rules and regulations to be developed. All training for Level
II CNA would be given in an institution of higher education and the certification
and registry would be maintained by the WSBN.
What are your reactions to this plan? The WSBN is interested in your ideas. You
can have input into the next phase of this project by answering the following questions.
Survey to Registered Nurses Concerning your interest in Delegation
to a Certified Nurse’s Assistant in an Expanded Role
Please answer all questions as thoroughly as possible in order that the WSBN may act to
implement ideas that might improve your work satisfaction and improve patient care.
1. In what kind of health care facility do you work?
2. How many years have you worked as a registered nurse?
3. How many patients/residents are you assigned in a typical shift?
Is this reasonable? If not, how many are reasonable?
4. Would you be comfortable delegating designated duties/tasks to a CNA
prepared for that duty/task?
5. What tasks/duties would you like to be able to delegate to a prepared CNA?
6. Do you view delegation and those responsibilities inherent in delegation
as a benefit?
7. Do you view delegation to a CNA in an expanded role as an increasing liability?
8. What non-nursing tasks do you perform that detract from nursing functions?
9. Keeping in mind cost containment, what kind of changes in staffing would
you recommend that would lead to improved patient care?
We Currently
Have Openings
for Neuro,
Critical Care,
Med/Surg and
OR Nurses
WYOMING
MEDICAL
CENTER
Wyoming’s Regional Medical Center
offers greater career opportunities for
Nurses who are seeking an environment
where they are encouraged to
grow within their profession. Currently
on the path to Magnet Status and
incorporating the Theory of Human
Caring WYOMING MEDICAL CENTER
believes and adheres to a Shared
Governance Model empowering Nurses
in autonomous decision making.
Wyoming Medical Center provides
the perfect opportunity to challenge
your career and spread your wings.
Through our laddering programs and
continuing education assistance you
will find support and incentives to
become the best you can be.
Become a member of our Nursing
team today. We currently have openings
for NEURO, CRITICAL CARE,
MED/SURG AND OR Nurses as well
as opportunities in other departments
and positions. WYOMING MEDICAL
CENTER offers competitive pay and
exceptional benefits including relocation
and educational assistance. Visit
our website for a complete listing of
career opportunities and apply online
at www.wyomingmedicalcenter.com
WYOMING MEDICAL CENTER IS
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Please send responses to marcia@uwyo.edu or to the WSBN at 1800 W.
Pioneer Street, Cheyenne, WY 82001 by April 15.
12 W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
WYOMING STATE BOARD OF NURSING
Kevin Franke, RN
5 year Conditional License Diversion/Impairment 10/10/06
Stephanie Barto Hicks, CNA
Letter of Reprimand Misappropriation flu vaccine Misadministration flu vaccine 10/10/06
Kathy Halvorsen, RN
Suspension, Stayed 2 years Impairment 11/03/06
Jaime Smith, RN
Voluntary Surrender Diversion/Impairment 11/03/06
Barbara Schulz, RN
Voluntary Surrender Diversion/Impairment 01/09/07
Kari (Rounkles, Anderson) Egbert, RN
Voluntary Surrender Diversion/Impairment 01/09/07
Sara Russell, RN
5 year Conditional License Diversion/Impairment 01/09/07
Mary Boley, CNA
Letter of Reprimand Impairment/Endangering patient safety 01/09/07
Cynthia Wittman, CNA
Letter of Reprimand Fraudulently obtaining prescription for work release 01/09/07
Mary Ferguson, RN
Letter of Reprimand Working without a license 01/09/07
ON-LINE LICENSE VERIFICATION
The Wyoming State Board of Nursing implemented
on-line license verification in October 2006. This allows
facilities to look up on-line any person holding a license
or certification with the Wyoming Board of Nursing.
Information regarding a licensee may be accessed by either
entering the person’s name and licensure type or by entering
their license type and license number. Once this is
entered the licensee’s name will appear. By clicking on the
name, all information regarding the licensee including
method of original licensure, original issue date, last
renewal date, expiration date and disciplinary history is
displayed. The on-line verification system may be
accessed at our web site: http://nursing.state.wy.us, click
on “Verifications”.
The Board also has an automated Voice Verification
System. This system may be accessed by dialing 1-877-
626-2681. Information regarding a licensee may be
accessed by entering the licensee/certificate holder’s social
security number. The Board plans to eliminate this system
effective June 30, 2007. All verifications will be accessed
effective July 1, 2007 via the on-line verification system.
If you have any questions regarding the licensure verification
systems, please do not hesitate to contact the
Board Office at 307-777-7601.
W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R 13

FROM THE LICENSING
DEPARTMENT
Trish Newberry
Examination Coordinator
The most frequently asked question posed to me by CNAs
during a renewal year is whether or not they should renew their
certificates if they plan on taking their NCLEX exams to
become licensed nurses during that same renewal period. Here
are some things to consider. By renewing your certificate for
$50.00, you are keeping not only your certificate current in case
you need to use it prior to becoming a licensed nurse, but you
are also keeping your fingerprint cards active which will save
you time and money when applying for your next license,
whether it’s an LPN or an RN license. By renewing your certificate
and keeping it current it will not be necessary to be
reprinted which will ultimately save you $10.00 and a lot of
hassle. Keeping your certificate current will also allow you to
work as a C.N.A should you fail your NCLEX exam and no
longer be allowed to work with your temporary permit as a
result. Renewing your certificate is definitely a good idea.
WYOMING
job opportunities
NEXT CLASS BEGINS JUNE 4, 2007
Online
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Latest updates in nursing care and
Self-paced learning resources and activities
complement content presentations
Preceptored clinical experience in your
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Learner support available via
Web, e-mail, phone, and fax
Approved by the
Wyoming Board
of Nursing
For complete info, visit www.udel.edu/DSP/rnrefresher
For Advertising Information
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gjones@pcipublishing.com
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Jacksonville University’s School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission
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CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES AT LEARNINGEXT.COM
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Diversity: Building Cultural Competence
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Documentation: A Critical Aspect of Client Care
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End-of-Life Care and Pain Management
3.0 Contact Hours | $18
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Acclimation of International Nurses
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6.6 Contact Hours | $40
Confronting Colleague Chemical Dependency
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Delegating Effectively
4.2 Contact Hours | $25
Respecting Professional Boundaries
3.9 Contact Hours | $23
Nurse Practice Acts CE Courses
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14 W Y O M I N G N U R S E R E P O R T E R

It’s never been easier to find your perfect fit!
At Banner Health, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit health care systems, we want you to find
the career that’s right for you. Many of the communities we serve are experiencing considerable
growth, and with that comes the need for more health care services and a chance for you to enhance
your career. Banner Health prides itself on creating an environment that balances excellent patient
care, a strong sense of professionalism, career growth, and the best in outcomes at every facility. It's no
wonder we attract and retain some of the best talent in health care.
We have excellent RN opportunities available in these Wyoming Banner Health facilities:
Platte County Memorial Hospital
& Nursing Home
Wheatland, WY
Washakie Medical Center
Worland, WY
Community Hospital &
Goshen Care Center
Torrington, WY
Apply online by visiting BannerHealth.com,
keyword: Choices. To speak to a recruiter
Monday–Friday, call 866-377-JOBS (5627) between
7am – 6pm MST.
Banner Health facilities are located in:
ALASKA ARIZONA CALIFORNIA COLORADO
NEBRASKA NEVADA WYOMING
EOE. Banner Health supports a drug free work environment.

WYOMING STATE BOARD OF NURSING
1810 Pioneer Ave.
Cheyenne, Wyoming 82002
Presorted Standard
U.S. Postage Paid
Little Rock, AR
Permit No. 2437