Essay On Unsafe Practice

Topic #2
a. In the state of TN, are nurses mandated to report unsafe, illegal, or unethical practices of nursing colleagues or physicians? (Should be in Nurse Practice Act)
Yes, nurses are mandated to report unsafe, illegal, or unethical practices of nursing colleagues or physicians. The RULES OF THE TENNESSEE BOARD OF NURSING, CHAPTER 1000-01-.13(s) UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND NEGLIGENCE, HABITS OR OTHER CAUSE states that it is considered unprofessional conduct and negligence if a nurse, "Fails to report, through proper channels, facts known to the individual regarding incompetent, unethical or illegal practice of any health care provider." Also, 1000-01-.14 STANDARDS OF NURSING COMPETENCE, section 1,B,5 states that nurses should, "Report unsafe practice and unsafe practice conditions to recognized legal authorities and to the Board where appropriate."

In the state of TN, is a nurse required to report victims of domestic violence or interpersonal violence? Does the victim have to consent?
Yes, nurses are required to report victims of domestic violence or interpersonal violence. The nurse should first have reasonable suspicion and a good faith belief that injuries are the result of abuse or neglect. It must be reported with or without the victim's consent. If the nurse fails to report domestic violence or interpersonal violence, they could possibly face disciplinary action by the state board of nursing, a loss of license, and criminal prosecution.
Talk to an ER nurse or ER nurse manager. What types of injuries does TN require be reported to legal authorities?
I spoke with my Cousin, she has been an ER nurse for 20 years. She talked to me about the obvious injuries and incidence like gunshot wounds, stabbings, poisoning, child abuse, and rape. For a more complete list she referred me to Tennessee Code TCA 38-1-101, posted