A revolution is defined as “a fundamental change in political power or organizational structures that take place in a relatively short period of time when the population rises up and revolts against current authority.”

This definition of revolution contemplates that the population rises up, not just one person. If one wants to start a revolution, start with the end in mind.

What do you want to accomplish?

I want to accomplish 3 things. First is to limit the timeframe in which a matter is to be investigated before a complaint is filed. The longer that the investigation takes, the harder the experience for the nurse under investigation. The nurse can’t sleep at night and the emotional toll is immense.

Secondly, if a license is renewed, information is disclosed to the Board and the Board then renews the license, then action can’t be taken later on the same facts. It’s sort of like double jeopardy would be in a criminal matter.

Lastly, I ask that if someone is on probation or suspension that the matter be set for review and a hearing quickly to get them off probation or suspension. In other words, the nurse has a right to a speedy trial!

Identify the needs for reform!

It is important to explain why these legislative issues are significant. Nurses in Indiana who have been put on probation or suspension and have complied with everything the BON has ordered, should be allowed a speedy hearing to withdraw the probation or suspension. Enduring additional months of probation or suspension while waiting for a hearing date to be scheduled adds to their stress and worry. They should not be forced to be on probation or suspension for any longer than it was originally ordered. This gets nurses back in the workforce quicker.

Create concrete goals.

Develop an action plan of how you want to achieve those goals and then implement the plan. It is so interesting that all of these processes are similar to the nursing process. We assess the situation, we plan, implement the plan and then evaluate. In my case, I would like legislation by the next session.

If the legislature then does not take action, what would be next?

At this time, I don’t have a “back door” to what would be next because I am hoping that we will be able to accomplish this through legislation.

NOW … I need your help! If you’ve had issues with the Board, please contact your legislator with your concerns. Just because nurses are service providers does not mean that advantage can be taken of us.

I am hopeful that I will be successful in making this change and helping more nurses through this process.

Do you want to create a revolution? If so, in what areas? How would you go about doing it?

I would love to hear your comments below.