This presentation by a gastroenterology nurse and attorney seeks to educate nurses about the legal and regulatory influences on the practice of nursing and includes a discussion of: (1) some key demographics of the nursing profession; (2) the extent of state/federal regulation of the nursing profession; (3) common violations of most Nurse Practice Acts; (4) the disciplinary process for nurses (with examples from cases in the news); and (5) some basic recommendations that will best protect the license to practice nursing. This presentation is designed to appeal to all endoscopy nurses, regardless of skill level. It includes information that is of interest to all nurses but is, when feasible, tailored to the practice of gastrointestinal nurses in endoscopy suites. The presentation starts with a 'test-your-knowledge' quiz which is a brief 11 question assessment of the attendee's knowledge of professional nursing and its rules, regulations, and associated issues. Each quiz question is addressed and answered in the body of the presentation.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 33rd Annual Course, SGNA on a Mission: Exceeding Expectations. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.