Barry University professors Ann-Lynn Denker, PhD, ARNP and Jessie Colin, PhD, RN were recognized with the dedication of service award for many years of devotion as a member of the Florida Board of Nursing (BON).
“Serving on the BON takes a large commitment of time, however, it is very rewarding to contribute to the quality of nursing regulation in Florida,” said Denker, PhD, ARNP, who served for six years, which included two years as the chairperson.
One of the Board’s purposes, is the protection of the public.
“Nursing is an awesome profession,” said Colin, PhD, RN. “By regulating ourselves we communicate integrity, responsibility and commitment to society and to our profession.”
Colin served on the Florida BON for 10 years. During her tenure, she served in positions such as the vice chair of the board and chair of the education committee of the board. She explains that nursing regulation is important. Nurses who have had the honor to serve have a responsibility to mentor novice nurses and to instill in them the tremendous role of advocacy, commitment and responsibility.
“The public trusts us and so we have an obligation to protect them,” Colin said.
The BON is responsible for licensing, monitoring, disciplining, educating and, when appropriate, rehabilitating its licensees to assure their fitness and competence in providing health care services for the people of Florida.
The sole legislative purpose in enacting the Nurse Practice Act is to ensure that every nurse practicing in Florida meets the minimum requirements for safe practice. It is the legislative intent that nurses who fall below minimum competency, or who otherwise present a danger to the public, shall be prohibited from practicing in the State of Florida.
As indicated, the Board focuses on the need to educate. Members of the Board educate by providing continuous communication relative to every aspect of the practice of Nursing. This includes encouraging nurses in their quest for higher education and training, since lifelong learning is critical to meeting and exceeding expectations as a professional.
The Board challenges nurses to routinely self-assess and encourages them to examine every aspect of practice, considering strengths and opportunities for improvement. By designing and implementing a refinement and enhancement plan, the nurses can continue to “practice with purpose” and provide outstanding health care services to the people of Florida.