The law was drafted this way to protect those nurse licensees who work in potentially violent health care settings, for example, reproductive health clinics and emergency departments. This language does not accurately reflect the critical nature of direct observation by the licensed nurse in assessing patients. It does not recognize the importance of observing the conditions, signs and symptoms of a patient. The regulatory language should be clear, precise and consistent with other regulations that outline the responsibilities of the licensed nurse in relation to the direct care of patients. Further, when continued care is required for the patient s condition, the nurse shall transfer responsibilities to an appropriate caregiver.
Nurses have no control over staffing patterns or reimbursement mechanisms.
Refusal to accept an assignment or other patient cares beyond the pre-designated period of time shall not constitute leaving a nursing assignment . Patient abuse requires an immediate response by the licensed nurse and the licensed facility. Nurses need to follow operational guidelines that are required by institutional settings that address patient abuse. Additionally, nurses are already ethically, professional and legally obligated to report these abuses. Facilities have a legal mandate to report patient abuse.