1. Where do you intend to become licensed by examination, and is this a Nurse Licensure Compact state?

I intend to become licensed to practice as a nurse in the state of New Hampshire. I just recently accepted a job working as a registered nurse at the Elliot in Manchester, NH in the CICU, and am very excited to start my career. New Hampshire is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, which means my license can be given to me by the state of New Hampshire, but I can travel to and practice under the same license in other states that have the Nurse Licensure Compact. I can sign up to test at a location in NH through the Pearson Vue portal.

2. How is the application completed and submitted (web-based, manual/paper-based, or either), and does the application you are filing require official transcripts, verification sign off by the director of the program, or both?

The state of New Hampshire allows applications for registered nurse licensure to be completed and submitted online, making this process easy and quick. The prompts can be filled out, and documents that are needed are clearly indicated. New Hampshire does require official transcripts from the University of New England to show degree completion. Verification sign off by the director of the program is not needed.

3. Does the state where you intend to become licensed require criminal background checks and/or fingerprinting? If so, what is the process?

New Hampshire requires criminal background checks and fingerprinting in order to complete licensure. Criminal background checks can be completed in Concord, NH at the State Criminal Records Unit. It costs $25, and payment can be in the form of a check or credit card. Fingerprinting can also be done at this location, but usually is also available at local police stations. However, my plan will most likely be to get these done together in Concord.

4. Reflecting on presentations from the Attorney General’s Office and the Medical Professionals Health Program, consider the following:

1. Describe any provisions for impaired nurses in the state where you intend to become licensed as described on or linked from the State Board of Nursing website, including any mandatory reporting requirements for suspected impairment, disciplinary measures, and resources for recovery.

Impaired practicing nurses in the state of New Hampshire can face severe consequences. It is important to note that nurses that suspect other nurses of impaired practice, such as practicing while using illicit substances, can submit an anonymous form to the NH Board of Nursing. This form will be reviewed by the Board and action can be taken. NH offers a recovery monitoring program, which I think is great and decreases a stigma because truly, these nurses need support through their substance disorder.

2. Some of the most commonly occurring legal issues that impact nursing and nursing practice relate to informed consent and refusing treatment, licensure, the safeguarding of clients’ personal possessions and valuables, malpractice, negligence, mandatory reporting, abuse, and unsafe practices.  How will you protect yourself and your license from these legal issues?

I will protect myself and my license by always practicing within my scope of my nursing license. I will also ensure I am up to date on all policies, procedure, and guidelines that are updated or changed throughout my career. I know most hospitals require RN skills day just to ensure proper techniques and updates, and I will be sure to attend. This will allow to me reevaluate my skills and any updates to hospital guidelines and procedures to stay in my scope of practice.