Is caring for my own port-a-cath and managing my Dad's care considered practicing as an RN?

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I'm in the process of renewing my RN license with the state of Texas.  I've been on disability (SSDI) since July 2020 when I contracted Covid and went into respiratory failure and severe cytokine storm.  My disability is likely permanent but I'm not quite ready to retire/inactivate my license on the hope I might still be able to use it in the future (call me an eternal optimist).  I have overcome bigger health crises in the past.  

Anyway, one of the two-part questions is:  Have you practiced nursing by using your nursing knowledge, skills and abilities within the past four (4) years?  Indicate the month and year that you last practiced as a Registered Nurse.  The first part I feel I could probably answer yes and technically be truthful.  I access my own port for monthly for IV infusions.  I do weekly biologic injections.  I set up my dad's medications (plus mine & my husband's).  I take my dad to his appointments and advocate for his care.  I also advocate for my own care.  And many other examples using my nursing knowledge, skills and abilities.  

However, I am not compensated for any of it and I am not signing RN behind my name for it so it seems almost disingenuous to claim I've "practiced" nursing in the last 4 years and to answer yes.  Texas does not have a minimum number of hours you must practice to keep you license current, just a requirement of CEUs.  I don't recall this question being asked the last time I renewed my license 2 years ago.  Any advice?

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2 Answers

Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

Hi!

Texas does not require payment for nursing services to qualify for a license.  

Current Practice and Refresher Course Questions

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the Board Rules do not require that an individual be compensated financially for provision of nursing services to be considered "practice". Therefore, volunteer work or caregiving to family members completed using nursing knowledge and skills can be considered practice for the purpose of this requirement.

 

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Excellent! Thank you @NRSKarenRN

 

 

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