WA nurses keeping the license active question?

U.S.A. Washington

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I was wondering once you have the licencse how do you keep it active if you can't find a job???

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I think if you keep paying the renewal fees and getting the required CEs then it stays active. At least that's what I'm hoping (jobless too!).

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In addittion, In WA you also have to fulfil the 531 hours of clinical practice every 3 years to keep you rn license active..thats what I was told..

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And where do we get these clinical hours without jobs? haha

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I think volunteering also counts..I am in the process of getting my RN license active (taking refresher) so trying to find out all the details..somewhere in this site..I read that volunteering also counts towards those hours..don't quote me on that though..:)

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Specializes in cardiac, PAR.
I was wondering once you have the licencse how do you keep it active if you can't find a job???

I have concerns about this new WA state law, especially for unemployed nurses who may not be informed. I emailed someone from the State Board of licensing, who agreed that volunteer work is allowed for the 531 hours/three years, as long as it is nursing practice, and it must be documented.

Does anyone know if CE can be training time at a new position? For example, the Blood Pathogen hour (with post test) and the like? Also I am in a learning role -- would on-the-job training be considered CE? Thanks.

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Specializes in L & D; Postpartum.

That 531 hour requirement is going to reach out and bite them....imho. What about a nurse who must take an extended leave from nursing due to illness, or to raise a family......volunteering for your own family doesn't count.

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Specializes in Certified Med/Surg tele, and other stuff.
That 531 hour requirement is going to reach out and bite them....imho. What about a nurse who must take an extended leave from nursing due to illness, or to raise a family......volunteering for your own family doesn't count.

What I don't understand is how a nurse can legally volunteer his/her services? Who protects you if something goes wrong?

Also, where can you even find volunteering type jobs? I would like to know what they are!

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