1.  I heard that continuing education is now mandatory for RNs and LPNs. Is this
      true?

Answer: The new Illinois Nurse Practice Act was signed into law by the Governor on October 5, 2007. The law mandates that RNs and LPNs obtain 20 continuing education contact hours per licensure cycle. RNs may begin obtaining credit 6/1/10.  Their required hours are due 5/31/12.  LPNs may begin obtaining credit 1/1/11.  Their required hours are due with the 2013 renewal.  For specific information, read the Nurse Practice Act Rules. 

2. Can an LPN hang IV antibiotics?

Answer: An LPN who possesses the proper education, training and experience may in fact administer antibiotic medications through a peripheral IV line via IV piggyback for a continuous infusion of fluids, with or without medications, through an IV access device. A peripheral IV line is defined as a short catheter inserted through the skin into a peripheral vein. Antibiotics may also be administered through peripheral access for intermittent infusions. The medication should be premeasured and prepacked. Also, as has been past practice, the administration of chemotherapeutic agents via intravenous routes, starting or adding blood or blood components, administration of medications via intravenous push and adding medication to existing intravenous infusions, including heparin in heparin locks, is not allowed.

3. I'm moving to another state, will my Illinois license be accepted there?

Answer: It would be best for you to check with that state's board of nursing to determine licensure requirements. All state boards of nursing have a website which will list contact information.

4. Can a CNA administer medications to patients in a hospital, nursing home or
     assisted living center?

Answer: As per the changes to the nurse practice act regarding delegation, a registered nurse shall not delegate any nursing activity that requires the specialized knowledge, judgment and skill of a licensed nurse (such as medication administration) to any unlicensed person or cna.

5. I wish to place my license on inactive status; will it be difficult to reactivate?

Answer: If you place your license on an inactive status or you fail to renew for 5 years, you must re-sit for the NCLEX exam. The exceptions to this rule would be proof of active practice in another jurisdiction and active military service.

6. Can an LPN admit a patient?

Answer: The LPN has a basic scope of nursing practice. RNs have a full scope of practice which include comprehensive nursing assessments and development of the plan of care. Therefore, the RN must be the person to perform the initial assessment and care plan development. The LPN may assist by asking questions regarding the patient’s history and then implementing the plan of care developed by the RN.

7.  What's the Difference between The Illinois Nurses Association (INA) and the
      Illinois Board of Nursing (IBON)

Answer: The Illinois Nurses Association (INA) and the Illinois Board of Nursing (IBON) are often confused because they almost sound the same. Do you know the difference?

Illinois Nurses Association	Illinois Board of Nursing
Address: 105 W. Adams, Suite 2101 Chicago, IL 60603	Address: 320 W. Washington St. Springfield, IL 62786
About INA: Professional Membership Association composed of registered nurses Board of Directores elected by membership Founded in 1901 Associate of the American Nurses Association (ANA)	About IBON: Legally constituted body, state agency which regulates nursing practice (LPN, RN, CM, CNP, CNS, CRNA) in Illinois. Created in 1907 Member of the National Council of Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
President: Pam Robbins, RN	Chair Person: Julio Santiago, RN
Executive Director: Susan Swart, MS, RN	Nursing Coordinator: Michelle Bromberg, MSN, APN, BC
Mission Statement: INA, the organization of registered professional nurses, will improve health standards and influence the delivery of quality health care services for all people.  They will foster high standards for nursing practice, stimulate and promote the professional development of nurses and advance their economic and general welfare.  They will empower nurses and influence health policy through political action.	Mission Statement: Provide leadership to advance regulatory excellence for public protection
Functions: To promote standards of nursing practice, nursing eduation and nursing services as defined by ANA To promote the adherence to ANA code of ethical conduct To act and speak for the nursing profession in Illinois in regard to legislation, governmental programs, and health policy. To promote and protect economic and general welfare of nurses To represent nurses and serve as a spokesperson with allied professional community, governmental groups and the public. To assume an active role as consumer advocate To promote relationships and collaboration with the Student Nurses Association of Illinois Nurses Association	Functions: License & maintain records for RNs, LPNs, and APNs Interpret the Nurse Practice Act Approve nursing education programs in Illinois Introduce and monitor legislation Impacting nursing regulation; promulgation administrative rules Collaborate with other nursing organizations, governmental agencies & public regarding nursing regulation Investigate complaints against nurses and carryout appropriate disciplinary actions