Discuss the differences between the Nurse Practice Act’s definition of the practice of practical nursing (LPN) stated in F.S. 464.003 (17) and the definition of the practice of professional nursing (RN) stated in F.S.464.003 (18)

1. After comparing the current Scope and Standards (2015) with the 2010 version (the 2010 edition is found in the 2015 book in Appendix A), discuss pertinent changes made between 2010 and 2015 to Standards One (Assessment) and Standards Two (Diagnosis), and to the competencies listed for those first two Standards. Notice words that have been changed or competencies added. Discuss your evaluation of the changes made – do you agree or disagree with them. 2. (A) Describe the legislative purpose and intent of Florida Statute 464 (Florida Nurse Practice Act). (B) Discuss the differences between the Nurse Practice Act’s definition of the practice of practical nursing (LPN) stated in F.S. 464.003 (17) and the definition of the practice of professional nursing (RN) stated in F.S.464.003 (18) (a), (b) & (c). (C) After reviewing the list of authorized duties of the certified nursing assistant stated in F.A.C. 64B9-15.002, discuss your thoughts as to whether the list is too broad or not broad enough. Are the certified assistants being given too much or too little responsibility? Be specific. 3. After reading Chapter 8 in Burkhardt & Nathaniel, discuss: What are the six components that must be proven in a malpractice claim according to Burkhardt & Nathaniel? Apply those 6 elements to the following scenario to determine whether the nurse could be accused of malpractice: A nurse has been assigned to take care of Mr. Jones who is one day post hip replacement and has a history of asthma. The nurse does not educate the patient about the need to use the incentive spirometer or to do coughing and deep breathing exercises. The patient develops pneumonia and nearly dies. His hospitalization was extended by a week. 4. After reading the malpractice article written by Kevin Giordano, discuss at least three of the common causes of malpractice cases against nurses. Also, discuss how Mr. Giordano believes most malpractice can be avoided. 5. After reviewing this week’s readings, including the Florida Nurse Practice Act, ANA’s Scope and Standards of Nursing practice, and elements of malpractice, discuss what you perceive as the most important factors that would impede a nurse’s ability to competently practice professional nursing and avoid malpractice claims. In other words, if we know what we should do, what factors in the workplace prevent a nurse from being able to carry out duties on any given day.