As I’ve mentioned my love for Maine in previous posts, I plan on attaining my nursing license in the state of Maine which is where I’ll be taking the NCLEX too. After moving to this state eight years ago, I immediately fell in love with nature. It supports my love for hiking, swimming and adventuring. The application process seemed overwhelming at a first glance. After a very informative lecture, I was relieved to hear it’s not as difficult as it appears. The application is completed online at Maine.gov, which makes things much easier for the applicant. Maine is a part of the Nurse Licensure compact which allows nurses to safely practice within 34 states that are also participating in the NLC legislation. The application requires a handful of signatures but most importantly requires a sign off by the director of nursing at UNE. My transcript will be uploaded to the Maine State Board of Nursing and this will allow me to register. I will then be expected to register through Pearson Vue, which will show I am eligible to test. I’m able to schedule my NCLEX after completing all of the previous requirements. The state of Maine also requires a background check and fingerprinting screening.
My number one priority as a practicing nurse is to give high quality nursing care to all of my patients. By doing so, I will be protecting myself, coworkers, and patients. I will not perform any malpractice which includes abuse and neglect. I am a mandated reporter, meaning that if I suspect any malpractice I will immediately report it to whom it may concern. I take an oath to be a mandated reporter when I apply to become a registered nurse. If i’m questioning a practice, I will be sure to get a confirmation that it is the correct thing to do. There are a lot of ethical dilemmas that can occur in the hospital, but I do understand that I will be following hospital protocols in all scenarios to ensure I am protecting my license. Communication is key, if I’m unsure of a certain protocol/practice I will be communicating with my team to ensure the best patient outcome. Another example of mandated reporting includes the nurses’ own practices. It is my job to self-report any issue with alcoholism or illicit drug misuse. It would be my own responsibility to fill out a suspicion incident checklist which includes the nature of incident, behavioral indicators, physical signs, work patterns, absenteeism, use of controlled substances, and a written summary of why it is concerning. This information should be factual based, it will not include any “gossip”. This case will then move onto the EAP or the Board of Nursing, from there on there may be a need for further involvement in the state. This can lead to suspension or even termination depending on the severity of the case.
Kassaundra, application for licensure by examination in Maine does not require transcripts since you are graduating from a Maine nursing program. What provisions are provided in Maine for impaired nurses, specifically resources to support recovery?