1A. The development of nursing standards of practice in the state of Illinois involves a systematic process that ensures the incorporation of evidence-based practices and the input of various entities. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) is responsible for overseeing the development of nursing standards. The process begins with the identification of the need for new or revised standards, which can be initiated by the IDFPR or by stakeholders within the nursing profession.
Once the need for new standards is identified, the IDFPR forms a committee consisting of nursing professionals, educators, researchers, and other experts in the field. This committee is responsible for conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature, research, and best practices to inform the development of the new standards. The committee may also seek input from stakeholders such as nursing associations, healthcare organizations, and the public through public hearings or surveys.
Based on the review and input gathered, the committee drafts the proposed nursing standards of practice. These draft standards are then reviewed by a broader group of professionals and experts in the field for feedback and suggestions for improvement. This review process ensures that the standards reflect current knowledge and practices in nursing. Once the standards have been refined and finalized, they are presented to the IDFPR for approval.
1B. The entities involved in developing the nursing standards of practice in Illinois include the IDFPR, the committee responsible for drafting the standards, and various stakeholders within the nursing profession. The IDFPR provides oversight and guidance throughout the development process to ensure that the standards align with state regulations and policies.
The committee, consisting of nursing professionals, educators, researchers, and experts, plays a crucial role in reviewing existing evidence and developing the standards. Their expertise and diverse perspectives contribute to the development of comprehensive and evidence-based standards.
Stakeholders within the nursing profession, such as nursing associations and healthcare organizations, also play a significant role in the development process. They provide valuable input, feedback, and recommendations to ensure that the standards represent the needs and priorities of the nursing profession and the healthcare system.
1C. The nursing standards of practice influence the nursing process in the field of behavioral health by providing a framework for delivering high-quality, safe, and effective care. These standards guide nurses in their decision-making, assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient care.
In behavioral health nursing, the standards of practice address specific considerations and best practices for the care of individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders. They outline guidelines for assessing and managing psychiatric symptoms, promoting therapeutic relationships, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. The standards also emphasize the importance of cultural competency, ethical considerations, and advocating for the rights and dignity of individuals with behavioral health issues.
By adhering to the nursing standards of practice, nurses in the field of behavioral health ensure that their care is evidence-based, patient-centered, and aligned with professional and regulatory requirements. The standards serve as a benchmark for evaluating and improving the quality of care provided and contribute to the overall advancement of the field of behavioral health nursing.
2A. Professional accountability is a fundamental concept in nursing that refers to the responsibility nurses have for their actions, decisions, and outcomes in providing patient care. It encompasses ethical and legal obligations, as well as professional standards and guidelines. Professional accountability requires nurses to be aware of and adhere to their scope of practice, to practice within accepted standards, and to be accountable for their own professional development and continuous learning.
