The bill introduces a new section to chapter 18.79 RCW that establishes standards for nursing education programs in Washington. It stipulates that the board will not impose requirements beyond those necessary for national accreditation and will accept documentation submitted to national accreditation bodies as sufficient for meeting board requirements. Additionally, the board is restricted from demanding extra corrective actions beyond what national accreditation bodies determine, while also providing technical assistance to programs with low licensure exam pass rates.
Furthermore, the bill allows for expedited approval of new nursing education program applications from institutions with existing accredited programs and specifies that only the simulation director and lead nurse educator need to be certified in clinical simulation. It also mentions that continued professional development for nurse educators may be required, contingent on available resources. Definitions for "national nursing education accreditation body" and "nursing education program" are included to clarify the terms used in the legislation.