IDFPR Enforcement of Nursing Laws and Regulations

As medical professionals, nurses are highly regulated. The primary statute that applies to the profession is the Illinois Nurse Practice Act. There are also extensive administrative regulations. The law and regulations include:

• Licensing standards and requirements
• Scope of nursing practice and standards of care
• Education program requirements and standards
• Disciplinary action for violations of laws and regulations

The significant degree of regulation for the nursing profession reflects the government’s interest in protecting the health, safety, and welfare of citizens. Only nurses who meet specific requirements are permitted to practice in Illinois. Nursing professionals licensed and regulated by IDFPR include:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)
• Advanced Practice Nurses (APN)
• APN Controlled Substance
• Medication Aide
• RN, LPN, and APN Continuing Education Sponsors

When Can a Nurse Lose His or Her License — or Face Professional Discipline — in Illinois?

The Illinois Nurse Practice Act contains numerous types of conduct that can warrant disciplinary action. Examples of some common issues that arise with nurse licenses include:

• Deception in providing information to IDFPR;
• Violation of any provision of the Illinois Nurse Practice Act or regulations;
• Conviction of certain crimes;
• Conduct that demonstrates incapacity or incompetence in the practice of nursing;
• Dishonorable, unprofessional, or unethical conduct;
• Unlawful acts relating to drugs;
• Addiction to or excessive use of drugs or alcohol;
• Failure to file required reports or maintain records;
• Making false reports or records;
• Violating patient confidentiality; and
• Violating state or federal laws and regulations relating to controlled substances.