The Hawaii Board of Nursing plays a crucial role in ensuring that nursing professionals in the state meet the necessary standards for safe and effective practice. As a prospective or current nursing professional in Hawaii, it is essential to understand the licensure requirements and stay updated on any changes. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Hawaii Board of Nursing's licensure requirements and recent updates.
The Hawaii Board of Nursing is responsible for regulating the practice of nursing in the state, which includes setting standards for nursing education, licensure, and practice. The board is comprised of experienced nursing professionals and is dedicated to protecting the public's health, safety, and welfare.
Licensure Requirements for Nursing Professionals in Hawaii
To practice nursing in Hawaii, individuals must obtain a license from the Hawaii Board of Nursing. The licensure requirements include:
- Graduation from an approved nursing program
- Passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
- Submission of a completed application and required documentation
- Payment of the licensure fee
Types of Nursing Licenses in Hawaii
The Hawaii Board of Nursing issues several types of nursing licenses, including:
- Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license
Each type of license has its own set of requirements and qualifications. For example, RNs must have a minimum of an associate's degree in nursing, while APRNs must have a master's or doctoral degree in a specialized area of practice.
Recent Updates to Licensure Requirements
The Hawaii Board of Nursing regularly reviews and updates its licensure requirements to ensure that they align with national standards and best practices. Some recent updates include:
In 2020, the Hawaii Board of Nursing implemented new requirements for APRN licensure, which include:
- Completion of a master's or doctoral degree in a specialized area of practice
- Passing a national certification exam in the APRN role
- Submission of a completed application and required documentation
Continuing Education Requirements
Nursing professionals in Hawaii are required to complete continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain their licensure. The Hawaii Board of Nursing requires:
- 12 hours of CE per year for RNs and LPNs
- 16 hours of CE per year for APRNs
CE courses must be approved by the Hawaii Board of Nursing and relate to the nurse's area of practice.
| Licensure Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| RN | Associate's degree in nursing, passing NCLEX, and completion of CE requirements |
| LPN | Diploma or certificate in practical nursing, passing NCLEX-PN, and completion of CE requirements |
| APRN | Master's or doctoral degree in a specialized area of practice, passing national certification exam, and completion of CE requirements |
Key Points
- The Hawaii Board of Nursing regulates the practice of nursing in the state.
- Nursing professionals must meet specific licensure requirements, including graduation from an approved program, passing the NCLEX, and completing CE requirements.
- The Hawaii Board of Nursing issues several types of nursing licenses, including RN, LPN, and APRN licenses.
- Recent updates to licensure requirements include new APRN licensure requirements and CE requirements.
- Nursing professionals must complete CE courses to maintain their licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for obtaining a nursing license in Hawaii?
+To obtain a nursing license in Hawaii, individuals must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), submit a completed application and required documentation, and pay the licensure fee.
How do I maintain my nursing license in Hawaii?
+To maintain your nursing license in Hawaii, you must complete continuing education (CE) requirements, which include 12 hours of CE per year for RNs and LPNs, and 16 hours of CE per year for APRNs.
What are the requirements for APRN licensure in Hawaii?
+The requirements for APRN licensure in Hawaii include completion of a master’s or doctoral degree in a specialized area of practice, passing a national certification exam in the APRN role, and submission of a completed application and required documentation.