reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.027 - Board—Officers—Meetings—Quorum.

RCW 18.74.027
Board—Officers—Meetings—Quorum.
The board shall elect from its members a chairperson and vice chairperson-secretary, who shall serve for one year and until their successors are elected. The board shall meet at least once a year and upon the call of the chairperson at such times and places as the chairperson designates. A majority of the board members appointed and serving constitutes a quorum for the transaction of board business. The affirmative vote of a majority of a quorum of the board is required to carry a motion or resolution, to adopt a rule, or to pass a measure. Meetings of the board shall be open and public, except the board may hold executive sessions to the extent permitted by chapter 42.30 RCW.
[ 2022 c 240 § 6; 1983 c 116 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.029 - Application of Uniform Disciplinary Act.

RCW 18.74.029
Application of Uniform Disciplinary Act.
The Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice, the issuance and denial of licenses and interim permits, and the discipline of licensees and holders of interim permits under this chapter.
[ 1993 c 133 § 2; 1987 c 150 § 47; 1986 c 259 § 123.]
NOTES:
Severability—1987 c 150: See RCW 18.122.901.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.030 - Qualifications of applicants.

RCW 18.74.030
Qualifications of applicants.
(1) An applicant for a license as a physical therapist shall have the following minimum qualifications:
(a) Be of good moral character; and
(b) Have obtained either (i) a baccalaureate degree in physical therapy from an institution of higher learning approved by the board or (ii) a baccalaureate degree from an institution of higher learning and a certificate or advanced degree from a school of physical therapy approved by the board.
(2) An applicant for a license as a physical therapist assistant must have the following minimum qualifications:
(a) Be of good moral character; and
(b) Have successfully completed a board-approved physical therapist assistant program.
(3) The applicant shall present proof of qualification to the board in the manner and on the forms prescribed by the board.
[ 2007 c 98 § 3; 1983 c 116 § 6; 1961 c 64 § 2; 1949 c 239 § 3; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.033 - Qualifications—Military training and experience.

RCW 18.74.033
Qualifications—Military training and experience.
An applicant with military training or experience satisfies the training and experience requirements of this chapter unless the board determines that the military training or experience is not substantially equivalent to the standards of this state.
[ 2011 c 32 § 8.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.035 - Examinations—Scope—Time and place.

RCW 18.74.035
Examinations—Scope—Time and place.
(1) All qualified applicants for a license as a physical therapist shall be examined by the board at such time and place as the board may determine. The board may approve an examination prepared or administered by a private testing agency or association of licensing authorities. The examination shall embrace the following subjects: The applied sciences of anatomy, neuroanatomy, kinesiology, physiology, pathology, psychology, physics; physical therapy, as defined in this chapter, applied to medicine, neurology, orthopedics, pediatrics, psychiatry, surgery; medical ethics; technical procedures in the practice of physical therapy as defined in this chapter; and such other subjects as the board may deem useful to test the applicant's fitness to practice physical therapy. Examinations shall be held within the state at least once a year, at such time and place as the board shall determine. An applicant who fails an examination may apply for reexamination upon payment of a reexamination fee determined by the secretary.
(2) All qualified applicants for a license as a physical therapist assistant must be examined by the board at such a time and place as the board may determine. The board may approve an examination prepared or administered by a private testing agency or association of licensing authorities.
[ 2014 c 116 § 4; 2007 c 98 § 4; 1995 c 198 § 10; 1991 c 3 § 176; 1983 c 116 § 7; 1961 c 64 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2014 c 116: See note following RCW 18.74.190.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.038 - Physical therapist assistants—Waiver of examination.

RCW 18.74.038
Physical therapist assistants—Waiver of examination.
The board shall waive the examination and grant a license to a person who meets the commonly accepted standards for practicing as a physical therapist assistant, as adopted by rule. Persons eligible for licensure as a physical therapist assistant under this section must apply for a license within one year of July 1, 2008.
[ 2007 c 98 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.040 - Licenses.

RCW 18.74.040
Licenses.
(1) The secretary shall license as a physical therapist, and shall furnish a license to, each applicant who successfully passes the examination for licensure as a physical therapist.
(2) The secretary shall license as a physical therapist assistant, and shall furnish a license to, each applicant who successfully passes the examination for licensure as a physical therapist assistant.
[ 2007 c 98 § 5; 1991 c 3 § 177; 1983 c 116 § 8; 1949 c 239 § 4; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.050 - Licenses—Fees.

RCW 18.74.050
Licenses—Fees.
(1) The secretary shall furnish a license upon the authority of the board to any person who applies and who has qualified under the provisions of this chapter. At the time of applying, the applicant shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees established pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. No person registered or licensed on July 24, 1983, as a physical therapist shall be required to pay an additional fee for a license under this chapter.
(2) No fees collected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section may be used to meet the state's monetary obligations as a member state to the physical therapy licensure compact.
[ 2017 c 108 § 4; 1996 c 191 § 59; 1991 c 3 § 178; 1985 c 7 § 63; 1983 c 116 § 9; 1975 1st ex.s. c 30 § 65; 1961 c 64 § 4; 1949 c 239 § 5; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.060 - Licensure by endorsement.

RCW 18.74.060
Licensure by endorsement.
Upon the recommendation of the board, the secretary shall license as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant and shall furnish a license to any person who is a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant registered, certified, or licensed under the laws of another state or territory, or the District of Columbia, if the qualifications for such registration, certification, or license required of the applicant were substantially equal to the requirements under this chapter. At the time of making application, the applicant shall comply with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees established pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
[ 2007 c 98 § 6; 1996 c 191 § 60; 1991 c 3 § 179; 1985 c 7 § 64; 1983 c 116 § 10; 1975 1st ex.s. c 30 § 66; 1961 c 64 § 5; 1949 c 239 § 6; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.065 - Licenses—Issuance to persons licensed or registered before July 24, 1983.

RCW 18.74.065
Licenses—Issuance to persons licensed or registered before July 24, 1983.
Any person holding a valid license or certificate of registration to practice physical therapy issued by authority of this state prior to July 24, 1983, shall be issued a license under this chapter.
[ 1983 c 116 § 11.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.070 - Renewal of license.

RCW 18.74.070
Renewal of license.
Every licensed physical therapist and physical therapist assistant shall apply to the secretary for a renewal of the license and pay to the state treasurer a fee determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
[ 2007 c 98 § 8; 1996 c 191 § 61; 1991 c 3 § 180; 1983 c 116 § 12; 1975 1st ex.s. c 30 § 67; 1971 ex.s. c 266 § 13; 1961 c 64 § 6; 1949 c 239 § 7; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.073 - Licenses—Inactive status—Fees.

RCW 18.74.073
Licenses—Inactive status—Fees.
Any physical therapist or physical therapist assistant licensed under this chapter not practicing physical therapy or providing services may place his or her license in an inactive status. The board shall prescribe requirements for maintaining an inactive status and converting from an inactive or active status. The secretary may establish fees for alterations in license status.
[ 2007 c 98 § 9; 1998 c 143 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.075 - Interim permits.

RCW 18.74.075
Interim permits.
(1) The department, upon approval by the board, shall issue an interim permit authorizing an applicant for licensure who meets the minimum qualifications stated in RCW 18.74.030 to practice physical therapy under graduate supervision pending notification of the results of the first licensure examination for which the applicant is eligible, but not to exceed six months.
(2) For purposes of this section, "graduate supervision" means supervision of a holder of an interim permit by a licensed physical therapist who is on the premises at all times. Graduate supervision shall include consultation regarding evaluation, treatment plan, treatment program, and progress of each assigned patient at appropriate intervals and be documented by cosignature of notes by the licensed physical therapist. RCW 18.74.012 is not applicable for holders of interim permits.
(3) If the holder of the interim permit fails the examination, the permit expires upon notification and is not renewable.
[ 1993 c 133 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.085 - Types of advertising prohibited.

RCW 18.74.085
Types of advertising prohibited.
(1) Physical therapists shall not advertise that they perform spinal manipulation, manipulative mobilization of the spine, chiropractic adjustment, spinal adjustment, maintenance or wellness manipulation, or chiropractic care of any kind.
(2) A violation of this section is unprofessional conduct under this chapter and chapter 18.130 RCW.
[ 2014 c 116 § 5; 1988 c 185 § 4.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2014 c 116: See note following RCW 18.74.190.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.090 - False advertising—Use of name and words—License required—Prosecutions of violations.

RCW 18.74.090
False advertising—Use of name and words—License required—Prosecutions of violations.
(1) A person who is not licensed with the secretary of health as a physical therapist under the requirements of this chapter shall not represent him or herself as being so licensed and shall not use in connection with his or her name the words or letters "P.T.", "R.P.T.", "L.P.T.", "physical therapy", "physiotherapy", "physical therapist" or "physiotherapist", or any other letters, words, signs, numbers, or insignia indicating or implying that he or she is a physical therapist. No person may practice physical therapy without first having a valid license. Nothing in this chapter prohibits any person licensed in this state under any other act from engaging in the practice for which he or she is licensed. It shall be the duty of the prosecuting attorney of each county to prosecute all cases involving a violation of this chapter arising within his or her county. The attorney general may assist in such prosecution and shall appear at all hearings when requested to do so by the board.
(2) No person assisting in the practice of physical therapy may use the title "physical therapist assistant," the letters "PTA," or any other words, abbreviations, or insignia in connection with his or her name to indicate or imply, directly or indirectly, that he or she is a physical therapist assistant without being licensed in accordance with this chapter as a physical therapist assistant.
(3) Subsections (1) and (2) of this section do not apply to an individual who is authorized to practice as a physical therapist or work as a physical therapist assistant by compact privilege as defined in RCW 18.74.500.
[ 2017 c 108 § 5; 2007 c 98 § 10; 1991 c 3 § 181; 1987 c 150 § 48; 1986 c 259 § 125; 1983 c 116 § 18; 1961 c 64 § 8; 1949 c 239 § 9; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-9.]
NOTES:
Severability—1987 c 150: See RCW 18.122.901.
Severability—1986 c 259: See note following RCW 18.130.010.
False advertising: Chapter 9.04 RCW.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.095 - False advertising—Injunctions.

RCW 18.74.095
False advertising—Injunctions.
If any person violates the provisions of this chapter, the attorney general, prosecuting attorney, the secretary, the board, or any citizen of the same county, may maintain an action in the name of the state to enjoin such person from practicing or holding himself or herself out as practicing physical therapy. The injunction shall not relieve criminal prosecution but the remedy by injunction shall be in addition to the liability of such offender for criminal prosecution and the suspension or revocation of his or her license.
[ 1991 c 3 § 182; 1983 c 116 § 19; 1961 c 64 § 9.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.120 - Record of proceedings—Register.

RCW 18.74.120
Record of proceedings—Register.
The secretary of health shall keep a record of proceedings under this chapter and a register of all persons licensed under it. The register shall show the name of every living licensed physical therapist and physical therapist assistant, his or her last known place of residence, and the date and number of his or her license as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.
[ 2007 c 98 § 11; 1991 c 3 § 183; 1983 c 116 § 21; 1979 c 158 § 63; 1977 c 75 § 11; 1949 c 239 § 12; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 10163-12.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.125 - Construction of chapter—Activities not prohibited—Use of letters or words in connection with name.

RCW 18.74.125
Construction of chapter—Activities not prohibited—Use of letters or words in connection with name.
Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit any person licensed in this state under any other act from engaging in the practice for which he or she is licensed. Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit any person who, at any time prior to January 1, 1961, was practicing any healing or manipulative art in the state of Washington and designating the same as physical therapy or physiotherapy, from continuing to do so after the passage of this amendatory act: PROVIDED, That no such person shall represent himself or herself as being registered and shall not use in connection with his or her name the words or letters "registered" or "licensed" or "R.P.T."
[ 2011 c 336 § 498; 1961 c 64 § 10.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: The language "after the passage of this amendatory act" refers to chapter 64, Laws of 1961 which passed the House March 1, 1961, passed the Senate February 27, 1961, approved by the governor March 6, 1961, and became effective at midnight June 7, 1961.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.128 - Construction of chapter—Health carrier contracts with physical therapist assistants.

RCW 18.74.128
Construction of chapter—Health carrier contracts with physical therapist assistants.
Nothing in this chapter may be construed to require that a health carrier defined in RCW 48.43.005 contract with a person licensed as a physical therapist assistant under this chapter.
[ 2007 c 98 § 17.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.130 - Exemptions.

RCW 18.74.130
Exemptions.
This chapter does not prohibit or regulate:
(1) The practice of physical therapy by students enrolled in approved schools as may be incidental to their course of study so long as such activities do not go beyond the scope of practice defined by this chapter.
(2) Auxiliary services provided by physical therapy aides carrying out duties necessary for the support of physical therapy including those duties which involve minor physical therapy services when performed under the direct supervision of licensed physical therapists so long as such activities do not go beyond the scope of practice defined by this chapter.
(3) The practice of physical therapy by licensed or registered physical therapists of other states or countries while appearing as clinicians of bona fide educational seminars sponsored by physical therapy, medical, or other healing art professional associations so long as such activities do not go beyond the scope of practice defined by this chapter.
(4) The practice of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in the armed services or employed by any other branch of the federal government.
[ 2007 c 98 § 12; 1983 c 116 § 22.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.135 - Insurance coverage and benefits not required or regulated.

RCW 18.74.135
Insurance coverage and benefits not required or regulated.
This chapter shall not be construed to restrict the ability of any insurance entity regulated by Title 48 RCW, or any state agency or program from limiting or controlling the utilization of physical therapy services by the use of any type of gatekeeper function; nor shall it be construed to require or prohibit that individual or group policies or contracts of an insurance carrier, health care service contractor, or health maintenance organization provide benefits or coverage for services and supplies provided by a person licensed under this chapter. For the purpose of this chapter, "gatekeeper function" means any provision in a contract which establishes a threshold requirement, such as a recommendation from a case manager or a primary care provider, which must be satisfied before a covered person is eligible to receive benefits under the contract.
[ 1988 c 185 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.150 - Unlawful activities—Persons exempt from licensure under chapter.

RCW 18.74.150
Unlawful activities—Persons exempt from licensure under chapter.
(1) It is unlawful for any person to practice or in any manner hold himself or herself out to practice physical therapy or designate himself or herself as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, unless he or she is licensed in accordance with this chapter or has unencumbered compact privilege as defined in RCW 18.74.500.
(2) This chapter does not restrict persons licensed under any other law of this state from engaging in the profession or practice for which they are licensed, if they are not representing themselves to be physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, or providers of physical therapy.
(3) The following persons are exempt from licensure as physical therapists under this chapter when engaged in the following activities:
(a) A person who is pursuing a course of study leading to a degree as a physical therapist in an approved professional education program and is satisfying supervised clinical education requirements related to his or her physical therapy education while under direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist;
(b) A physical therapist while practicing in the United States armed services, United States public health service, or veterans administration as based on requirements under federal regulations for state licensure of health care providers; and
(c) A physical therapist licensed in another United States jurisdiction, or a foreign-educated physical therapist credentialed in another country, performing physical therapy as part of teaching or participating in an educational seminar of no more than sixty days in a calendar year.
(4) The following persons are exempt from licensure as physical therapist assistants under this chapter when engaged in the following activities:
(a) A person who is pursuing a course of study leading to a degree as a physical therapist assistant in an approved professional education program and is satisfying supervised clinical education requirements related to his or her physical therapist assistant education while under direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist or licensed physical therapist assistant;
(b) A physical therapist assistant while practicing in the United States armed services, United States public health service, or veterans administration as based on requirements under federal regulations for state licensure of health care providers; and
(c) A physical therapist assistant licensed in another United States jurisdiction, or a foreign-educated physical therapist assistant credentialed in another country, or a physical therapist assistant who is teaching or participating in an educational seminar of no more than sixty days in a calendar year.
[ 2017 c 108 § 6; 2013 c 280 § 1; 2007 c 98 § 13; 2005 c 501 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.160 - Authorization to practice—Referral to appropriate practitioner—Standards of ethics—Electroneuromyographic examinations—Authorization to purchase, store, and administer certain drugs or medication.

RCW 18.74.160
Authorization to practice—Referral to appropriate practitioner—Standards of ethics—Electroneuromyographic examinations—Authorization to purchase, store, and administer certain drugs or medication.
(1) A physical therapist licensed under this chapter is fully authorized to practice physical therapy as defined in this chapter.
(2) A physical therapist shall refer persons under his or her care to appropriate health care practitioners if the physical therapist has reasonable cause to believe symptoms or conditions are present that require services beyond the scope of practice under this chapter or when physical therapy is contraindicated.
(3) Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants shall adhere to the recognized standards of ethics of the physical therapy profession and as further established by rule.
(4) A physical therapist may perform electroneuromyographic examinations for the purpose of testing neuromuscular function only by referral from an authorized health care practitioner identified in *RCW 18.74.010(7) and only upon demonstration of further education and training in electroneuromyographic examinations as established by rule. Within two years after July 1, 2005, the secretary shall waive the requirement for further education and training for those physical therapists licensed under this chapter who perform electroneuromyographic examinations.
(5) A physical therapist licensed under this chapter may purchase, store, and administer medications such as hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, topical anesthetics, silver sulfadiazine, lidocaine, magnesium sulfate, zinc oxide, and other similar medications, and may administer such other drugs or medications as prescribed by an authorized health care practitioner for the practice of physical therapy. A pharmacist who dispenses such drugs to a licensed physical therapist is not liable for any adverse reactions caused by any method of use by the physical therapist.
[ 2007 c 98 § 14; 2005 c 501 § 5.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 18.74.010 was alphabetized pursuant to RCW 1.08.015(2)(k), changing subsection (7) to subsection (1), effective July 1, 2015.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.170 - Delegation.

RCW 18.74.170
Delegation.
(1) Physical therapists are responsible for patient care given by assistive personnel under their supervision. A physical therapist may delegate to assistive personnel and supervise selected acts, tasks, or procedures that fall within the scope of physical therapy practice but do not exceed the education or training of the assistive personnel.
(2) Nothing in this chapter may be construed to prohibit other licensed health care providers from using the services of physical therapist assistants, as long as the title "physical therapist assistant" is not used in violation of RCW 18.74.090, physical therapist aides, or other assistive personnel as long as the licensed health care provider is responsible for the activities of such assistants, aides, and other personnel and provides appropriate supervision.
[ 2007 c 98 § 15; 2005 c 501 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.510 - Physical therapy licensure compact—Compact privilege—Fees.

RCW 18.74.510
Physical therapy licensure compact—Compact privilege—Fees.
(1) The secretary, in consultation with the board, shall establish fees pursuant to RCW 43.70.250 for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants seeking to practice in this state by use of compact privilege as defined in RCW 18.74.500. At the time of applying for compact privilege in this state, the applicant shall comply with established fee requirements.
(2) The fees established in subsection (1) of this section must be an amount sufficient to cover the state's monetary obligations as a member state to the physical therapy licensure compact.
[ 2017 c 108 § 2.]
NOTES:
Short title—2017 c 108 §§ 1 and 2: See note following RCW 18.74.500.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.520 - Physical therapy licensure compact—Criminal history information.

RCW 18.74.520
Physical therapy licensure compact—Criminal history information.
The board shall not disseminate any criminal history information gained through a federal background check, ordered pursuant to RCW 18.74.500, the physical therapy licensure compact, to the physical therapy compact commission or another state or state licensure board.
[ 2017 c 108 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.74 - Physical Therapy. › 18.74.912 - Effective dates—2007 c 98.

RCW 18.74.912
Effective dates—2007 c 98.
(1) Sections 1 and 3 through 18 of this act take effect July 1, 2008.
(2) Section 2 of this act takes effect December 1, 2008.
[ 2007 c 98 § 19.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.010 - Purpose.

RCW 18.76.010
Purpose.
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 § 1; 1987 c 214 § 16; 1980 c 178 § 1. Formerly RCW 18.73.210.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.020 - Definitions.

RCW 18.76.020
Definitions.
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 § 7; 1991 c 3 § 184; 1987 c 214 § 19.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.030 - Poison information center—Statewide program.

RCW 18.76.030
Poison information center—Statewide program.
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 § 2; 1987 c 214 § 17; 1980 c 178 § 2. Formerly RCW 18.73.220.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.041 - Consulting with other poison programs.

RCW 18.76.041
Consulting with other poison programs.
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 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.050 - Rules and standards.

RCW 18.76.050
Rules and standards.
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 § 21; 1987 c 214 § 20.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 18.73.050 was repealed by 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 § 23.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.060 - Poison center medical director—Poison information specialist—Certification required.

RCW 18.76.060
Poison center medical director—Poison information specialist—Certification required.
(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 § 8; 1993 c 343 § 4; 1987 c 214 § 21.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1996 c 178: See note following RCW 18.35.110.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.070 - Immunity from liability.

RCW 18.76.070
Immunity from liability.
(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 § 22.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.080 - Department to defend personnel.

RCW 18.76.080
Department to defend personnel.
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 § 23.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.090 - Use of gifts and grants.

RCW 18.76.090
Use of gifts and grants.
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 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.76 - Poison Information Centers. › 18.76.110 - Certificate suspension—Noncompliance with support order—Reissuance.

RCW 18.76.110
Certificate suspension—Noncompliance with support order—Reissuance.
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 § 825.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: 1997 c 58 § 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.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.79 - Nursing Care. › 18.79.010 - Purpose.

RCW 18.79.010
Purpose.
It is the purpose of the *nursing care quality assurance commission 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 *commission must promote the delivery of quality health care to the residents of the state of Washington.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 9 § 401.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The reference to "nursing care quality assurance commission" was changed to "board of nursing" by 2023 c 123.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.79 - Nursing Care. › 18.79.020 - Definitions.

RCW 18.79.020
Definitions.
Unless a different meaning is plainly required by the context, the definitions set forth in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Board" means the Washington state board of nursing.
(2) "Department" means the department of health.
(3) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
(4) "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.
(5) "Diploma" means written official verification of completion of an approved nursing education program.
(6) "Nurse" or "nursing," unless otherwise specified as a practical nurse or practical nursing, means a registered nurse or registered nursing.
[ 2023 c 123 § 17; 1994 sp.s. c 9 § 402.]
NOTES:
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.79 - Nursing Care. › 18.79.030 - Licenses required—Titles.

RCW 18.79.030
Licenses required—Titles.
(1) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as a registered nurse in this state unless that 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 may assume those titles or use the abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person using them is a registered nurse.
(2) It is unlawful for a person to practice or to offer to practice as an advanced registered nurse practitioner or as a nurse practitioner in this state unless that person has been licensed under this chapter. A person who holds a license to practice as an advanced registered nurse practitioner in this state may use the titles "advanced registered nurse practitioner," "nurse practitioner," and "nurse" and the abbreviations "A.R.N.P." and "N.P." No other person may assume those titles or use those abbreviations or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person using them is an advanced registered nurse practitioner or 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 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 may assume those titles or use that abbreviation or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person 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, nurse practitioner, or licensed practical nurse, unless otherwise authorized by law to do so.
[ 2023 c 123 § 19; 1997 c 177 § 1; 1994 sp.s. c 9 § 403.]
NOTES:
Short title—2023 c 123: See RCW 18.80.900.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.79 - Nursing Care. › 18.79.040 - "Registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions.

RCW 18.79.040
"Registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions.
(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 *commission to be performed by registered nurses licensed under this chapter and that are authorized by the *commission 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.
[ 2020 c 80 § 15; 2012 c 13 § 1; 2003 c 140 § 1; 1995 1st sp.s. c 18 § 50; 1994 sp.s. c 9 § 404.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The reference to "nursing care quality assurance commission" was changed to "board of nursing" by 2023 c 123.
Effective date—2020 c 80 §§ 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 § 13.]
Conflict with federal requirements—Severability—Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 18: See notes following RCW 74.39A.030.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.79 - Nursing Care. › 18.79.050 - "Advanced registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions.

RCW 18.79.050
"Advanced registered nursing practice" defined—Exceptions.
"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 *commission. Upon approval by the *commission, 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.
[ 2000 c 64 § 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 § 405.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The reference to "nursing care quality assurance commission" was changed to "board of nursing" by 2023 c 123.
Effective date—2000 c 64 §§ 1-3: "Sections 1 through 3 of this act take effect July 1, 2000." [ 2000 c 64 § 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 § 9.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 18 - Businesses and Professions › Chapter 18.79 - Nursing Care. › 18.79.060 - "Licensed practical nursing practice" defined—Exceptions.

RCW 18.79.060
"Licensed practical nursing practice" defined—Exceptions.
"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 § 16; 2012 c 13 § 2; 1994 sp.s. c 9 § 406.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 80 §§ 12-59: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Intent—2020 c 80: See note following RCW 18.71A.010.