I am planning on becoming a licensed nurse in Massachusetts which is not considered a compact state. However, I live pretty close to New Hampshire and most likely will be applying to jobs there as well. To become licensed by examination in MA, an application can be submitted online through the state board of nursing website. This application requires a student who has graduated from a board-approved nursing program, of good moral character as defined my state law, and have passed the NCLEX. I could not find anything on the website about the process of a criminal background check, but considering the applicant needs to be in good moral standing, I assume this is required.
I have been able to find some more information about being a nurse in the state of Massachusetts. The website states that the state has authorized the board of nursing to investigate any complaints filed against nurses. To keep their license, the nurse must be able to demonstrate that they can practice safely and competently. For disciplinary action to take place, the board must determine that the nurse has not violated the law. A nurse in this state is required to report any signs of abuse and can fill out the form that’s linked on the website. I have also discovered that Massachusetts is a state that has a substance abuse and rehabilitation program for nurses. To enter this abstinence-based program, a nurse must sign a legally binding document to participate.
Working as a nurse, many legal issues can arise. To protect myself and my license, the first thing I will do is get insurance. When I start practicing as a nurse, I will make sure to always work in my scope of practice. I will make sure I fulfill my duties as a mandated reporter, advocate for my patients, verify orders with the providers, and ask questions if there is something that I do not know. As a new graduate nurse, there are plenty of things that I will not know. Because of this, I will make sure that I will not be afraid to ask for help if I need it.
