The Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN) is responsible for regulating the practice of nursing in Oregon, ensuring that nurses meet the necessary qualifications and standards to provide safe and effective care to patients. The licensure requirements for nurses in Oregon are outlined below, providing a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to become licensed nurses in the state.
Nursing is a vital profession that requires a strong foundation in education, clinical practice, and licensure. In Oregon, the OSBN oversees the licensure process, which involves meeting specific requirements, submitting an application, and passing a licensing exam. This guide will walk you through the licensure requirements, application process, and exam requirements, providing you with the information you need to become a licensed nurse in Oregon.
The OSBN is committed to ensuring that nurses in Oregon are qualified and competent to provide high-quality care to patients. To achieve this, the board has established strict licensure requirements that must be met by all applicants. These requirements include completing an approved nursing education program, passing a licensing exam, and meeting specific background and character requirements.
Oregon Nursing Licensure Requirements
To become a licensed nurse in Oregon, you must meet the following requirements:
- Complete an approved nursing education program
- Pass a licensing exam (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN)
- Meet specific background and character requirements
- Submit a completed application to the OSBN
Education Requirements
The OSBN requires that all applicants complete an approved nursing education program. These programs must be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency and provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice nursing safely and effectively.
Approved Nursing Education Programs
The OSBN has approved several nursing education programs in Oregon, including:
| Program | Location |
|---|---|
| Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing | Portland, OR |
| University of Oregon School of Nursing | Eugene, OR |
| Clackamas Community College Nursing Program | Wilsonville, OR |
Licensure by Examination
To become a licensed nurse in Oregon, you must pass a licensing exam. The OSBN requires that all applicants pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN).
NCLEX-RN Exam Requirements
The NCLEX-RN exam is a computerized exam that tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as:
- Safe and effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial integrity
- Physiological integrity
Licensure by Endorsement
If you are already a licensed nurse in another state, you may be eligible for licensure by endorsement in Oregon. To be eligible, you must:
- Hold a current nursing license in another state
- Meet the OSBN's requirements for licensure by endorsement
- Pass a background check
Key Points
- The Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN) regulates the practice of nursing in Oregon.
- To become a licensed nurse in Oregon, you must complete an approved nursing education program, pass a licensing exam, and meet specific background and character requirements.
- The OSBN has approved several nursing education programs in Oregon.
- The NCLEX-RN exam is a computerized exam that tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
- If you are already a licensed nurse in another state, you may be eligible for licensure by endorsement in Oregon.
Application Process
To apply for licensure in Oregon, you must submit a completed application to the OSBN. The application process includes:
- Submitting a completed application form
- Providing transcripts from your nursing education program
- Passing a background check
- Paying the required fees
Fees and Costs
The OSBN charges several fees and costs associated with the licensure process, including:
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $75 |
| Licensure fee | $150 |
| Background check fee | $50 |
Maintaining Licensure
To maintain licensure in Oregon, nurses must:
- Complete continuing education requirements
- Meet the OSBN's requirements for licensure renewal
- Pay the required fees
Continuing Education Requirements
The OSBN requires that nurses complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. These hours must be approved by the OSBN and can be completed through various providers.
What are the education requirements for nursing licensure in Oregon?
+The Oregon State Board of Nursing requires that all applicants complete an approved nursing education program. These programs must be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency and provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice nursing safely and effectively.
What is the NCLEX-RN exam?
+The NCLEX-RN exam is a computerized exam that tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Can I apply for licensure by endorsement if I am already a licensed nurse in another state?
+Yes, if you are already a licensed nurse in another state, you may be eligible for licensure by endorsement in Oregon. To be eligible, you must hold a current nursing license in another state, meet the OSBN’s requirements for licensure by endorsement, and pass a background check.