Ind. Code ch. 25-23-1

Ind. Code ch. 25-23-1
in effect

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-0.1 Application of certain amendments to chapter

Sec. 0.1. The amendments made to this chapter by P.L.185-1993 shall not be construed to limit the authority of a registered nurse to perform services that a registered nurse was authorized to perform under this article before April 30, 1993. As added by P.L.220-2011, SEC.408.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1 Definitions

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter: (a) "Board" means the Indiana state board of nursing. (b) "Advanced practice registered nurse" means: (1) a nurse practitioner; (2) a certified nurse midwife; (3) a clinical nurse specialist; or (4) a certified registered nurse anesthetist; who is a registered nurse qualified to practice nursing in a specialty role based upon the additional knowledge and skill gained through a formal organized program of study and clinical experience, or the equivalent as determined by the board, which does not limit but extends or expands the function of the nurse which may be initiated by the client or provider in settings that shall include hospital outpatient clinics and health maintenance organizations. Notwithstanding any other law, this subsection does not add to the powers and duties or scope of practice of certified registered nurse anesthetists as described in section 30 of this chapter. (c) "Human response" means those signs, symptoms, behaviors, and processes that denote the individual's interaction with the environment. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.1; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.1; Acts 1974, P.L.119, SEC.1. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.228, SEC.1; P.L.169-1985, SEC.63; P.L.185-1993, SEC.2; P.L.232-2013, SEC.18; P.L.58-2014, SEC.7; P.L.129-2018, SEC.28.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1.1 Additional definitions

Sec. 1.1. (a) As used in this chapter, "registered nurse" means a person who holds a valid license issued under this chapter or IC 25-42 and who bears primary responsibility and accountability for nursing practices based on specialized knowledge, judgment, and skill derived from the principles of biological, physical, and behavioral sciences. (b) As used in this chapter, "registered nursing" means performance of services which include but are not limited to: (1) assessing health conditions; (2) deriving a nursing diagnosis; (3) executing a nursing regimen through the selection, performance, and management of nursing actions based on nursing diagnoses; (4) advocating the provision of health care services through collaboration with or referral to other health professionals; (5) executing regimens delegated by a physician with an unlimited license to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine, a licensed dentist, a licensed chiropractor, a licensed optometrist, or a licensed podiatrist; (6) teaching, administering, supervising, delegating, and evaluating nursing practice; (7) delegating tasks which assist in implementing the nursing, medical, or dental regimen; or (8) performing acts which are approved by the board or by the board in collaboration with the medical licensing board of Indiana. (c) As used in this chapter, "assessing health conditions" means the collection of data through means such as interviews, observation, and inspection for the purpose of: (1) deriving a nursing diagnosis; (2) identifying the need for additional data collection by nursing personnel; and (3) identifying the need for additional data collection by other health professionals. (d) As used in this chapter, "nursing regimen" means preventive, restorative, maintenance, and promotion activities which include meeting or assisting with self-care needs, counseling, and teaching. (e) As used in this chapter, "nursing diagnosis" means the identification of needs which are amenable to nursing regimen. As added by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.158. Amended by P.L.169-1985, SEC.64; P.L.181-2002, SEC.3; P.L.1-2007, SEC.170; P.L.134-2008, SEC.26; P.L.156-2020, SEC.101.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1.2 "Licensed practical nurse"

Sec. 1.2. As used in this chapter, "licensed practical nurse" means a person who holds a valid license issued under this chapter or IC 25-42 and who functions at the direction of: (1) a registered nurse; (2) a physician with an unlimited license to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine; (3) a licensed dentist; (4) a licensed chiropractor; (5) a licensed optometrist; or (6) a licensed podiatrist; in the performance of activities commonly performed by practical nurses and requiring special knowledge or skill. As added by P.L.169-1985, SEC.65. Amended by P.L.181-2002, SEC.4; P.L.1-2007, SEC.171; P.L.134-2008, SEC.27; P.L.156-2020, SEC.102.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1.3 "Practical nursing"

Sec. 1.3. As used in this chapter, "practical nursing" means the performance of services commonly performed by practical nurses, including: (1) contributing to the assessment of the health status of individuals or groups; (2) participating in the development and modification of the strategy of care; (3) implementing the appropriate aspects of the strategy of care; (4) maintaining safe and effective nursing care; and (5) participating in the evaluation of responses to the strategy of care. As added by P.L.169-1985, SEC.66.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1.4 "Certified registered nurse anesthetist"

Sec. 1.4. As used in this chapter, "certified registered nurse anesthetist" means a registered nurse who: (1) is a graduate of a nurse anesthesia educational program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs or its predecessor; (2) is properly certified by successfully completing the certification examination administered by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists or its predecessor; and (3) is properly certified and in compliance with criteria for biennial recertification, as defined by the Council on Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists. As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.177-2009, SEC.42.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1.5 "INSPECT program"

Sec. 1.5. As used in this chapter, "INSPECT program" means the Indiana scheduled prescription electronic collection and tracking program established by IC 25-1-13-4. As added by P.L.82-2016, SEC.5.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-1.6 "Forensic nurse"

Sec. 1.6. As used in this chapter, "forensic nurse" means a registered nurse licensed under section 11 of this chapter who meets the requirements of section 35 of this chapter. As added by P.L.90-2021, SEC.1.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-2 Board established; members

Sec. 2. (a) There is established the Indiana state board of nursing consisting of eleven (11) members appointed by the governor as follows, each to serve a term under IC 25-1-6.5: (1) Subject to IC 25-1-6.5-3, eight (8) of the board members must be registered nurses who are committed to advancing and safeguarding the nursing profession as a whole. Two (2) of the members appointed under this subdivision must be an advanced practice registered nurse with at least one (1) member who has, or has had, prescriptive authority. One (1) of the members appointed under this subdivision must be a current faculty member of a prelicensure nursing program who has: (A) administrative leadership responsibilities; and (B) at least one (1) year of experience as a faculty member with the responsibilities described in clause (A). (2) Two (2) of the board's members must be licensed practical nurses. (3) One (1) member of the board, to represent the general public, must be a resident of this state and not be associated with nursing in any way other than as a consumer. (b) A member of the board may be removed under IC 25-1-6.5-4. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.2; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.2. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.159; P.L.169-1985, SEC.67; P.L.185-1993, SEC.4; P.L.158-2003, SEC.4; P.L.249-2019, SEC.99; P.L.131-2020, SEC.8; P.L.45-2025, SEC.1.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-3 Vacancies

Sec. 3. At any time there is a vacancy or expiration of a term, the Indiana State Nurses Association shall recommend to the governor a list of qualified nurses for appointment to the board in the number of not less than twice the number of: (1) nurse vacancies to be filled; or (2) nurse appointments to be made. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.3; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.3. As amended by P.L.249-2019, SEC.100; P.L.148-2023, SEC.12; P.L.89-2026, SEC.1.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-4 Qualifications of members of board; oath

Sec. 4. (a) Each registered nurse member of the board required by section 2 of this chapter must: (1) be a citizen of the United States; (2) be a resident of Indiana; and (3) have: (A) graduated from an accredited educational program for the preparation of practitioners of professional nursing; (B) been licensed as a registered nurse in Indiana; (C) had at least five (5) years successful experience since graduation in administering, teaching, or practicing in an educational program to prepare practitioners of nursing or in administering or practicing in nursing service; and (D) been actively engaged in the activities described in clause (C) at any time during the five (5) years immediately preceding the member's initial appointment to the board. (b) Each licensed practical nurse member of the board required by section 2 of this chapter must: (1) be a citizen of the United States; (2) be a resident of Indiana; and (3) have: (A) graduated from an accredited educational program for the preparation of practitioners of practical nursing; (B) been licensed as a licensed practical nurse in Indiana; (C) had at least five (5) years successful experience as a practitioner of practical nursing since graduation; and (D) been actively engaged in practical nursing at any time during the five (5) years immediately preceding the member's initial appointment to the board. (c) Before entering upon the discharge of official duties, each member of the board shall file the constitutional oath of office in the office of the secretary of state. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.4; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.4. As amended by P.L.169-1985, SEC.68; P.L.131-2020, SEC.9.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-5 Meetings; officers; quorum

Sec. 5. (a) The board shall meet annually. At its first meeting of the calendar year, it shall elect from the membership a president, a vice president, and a secretary. It shall hold such other meetings during the year as may be necessary for the transaction of its business. (b) Six (6) members of the board constitute a quorum. An affirmative vote of a majority of the members appointed to the board is required for action of the board. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.5; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.5. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.160; P.L.169-1985, SEC.69; P.L.149-1987, SEC.56; P.L.158-2003, SEC.5; P.L.45-2025, SEC.2.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-7 Powers and duties of board

Sec. 7. (a) The board shall do the following: (1) Adopt under IC 4-22-2 rules necessary to enable it to carry into effect this chapter. (2) Prescribe standards and approve curricula for nursing education programs preparing persons for licensure under this chapter. (3) Provide for surveys of such programs at such times as it considers necessary. (4) Accredit such programs as meet the requirements of this chapter and of the board. (5) Deny or withdraw accreditation from nursing education programs for failure to meet prescribed curricula or other standards. (6) Examine, license, and renew the license of qualified applicants. (7) Issue subpoenas, compel the attendance of witnesses, and administer oaths to persons giving testimony at hearings. (8) Cause the prosecution of all persons violating this chapter and have power to incur necessary expenses for these prosecutions. (9) Adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 that do the following: (A) Prescribe standards for the competent practice of registered, practical, and advanced practice registered nursing. (B) Establish with the approval of the medical licensing board created by IC 25-22.5-2-1 requirements that advanced practice registered nurses must meet to be granted authority to prescribe legend drugs and to retain that authority. (C) Establish, with the approval of the medical licensing board created by IC 25-22.5-2-1, requirements for the renewal of a practice agreement under section 19.4 of this chapter, which shall expire on October 31 in each odd-numbered year. (10) Keep a record of all its proceedings. (11) Collect and distribute annually demographic information on the number and type of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses employed in Indiana. (12) Adopt rules and administer the interstate nurse licensure compact under IC 25-42. (13) Adopt or amend rules to implement the nursing licensure by endorsement available for foreign nursing school graduates under sections 11 and 12 of this chapter. (b) The board may do the following: (1) Create ad hoc subcommittees representing the various nursing specialties and interests of the profession of nursing. Persons appointed to a subcommittee serve for terms as determined by the board. (2) Utilize the appropriate subcommittees so as to assist the board with its responsibilities. The assistance provided by the subcommittees may include the following: (A) Recommendation of rules necessary to carry out the duties of the board. (B) Recommendations concerning educational programs and requirements. (C) Recommendations regarding examinations and licensure of applicants. (3) Appoint nurses to serve on each of the ad hoc subcommittees. (c) Nurses appointed under subsection (b) must: (1) be committed to advancing and safeguarding the nursing profession as a whole; and (2) represent nurses who practice in the field directly affected by a subcommittee's actions. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.7; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.6. As amended by Acts 1977, P.L.172, SEC.29; Acts 1979, P.L.17, SEC.46; Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.161; P.L.169-1985, SEC.70; P.L.149-1987, SEC.57; P.L.185-1993, SEC.5; P.L.127-1994, SEC.1; P.L.181-2002, SEC.5; P.L.158-2003, SEC.6; P.L.1-2007, SEC.172; P.L.134-2008, SEC.28; P.L.138-2014, SEC.9; P.L.129-2018, SEC.29; P.L.135-2019, SEC.1; P.L.69-2022, SEC.3.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-7.1 Rules and regulations

Sec. 7.1. The board may adopt rules and regulations applicable to nurse practitioners. As added by Acts 1981, P.L.228, SEC.2.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-7.2 Nursing education programs

Note: This version of section effective until 7-1-2027. See also following version of this section, effective 7-1-2027. Sec. 7.2. (a) As used in this section, "nursing education program" means a nursing education program that is required to be authorized by the board for proprietary education (established by IC 21-18.5-5-1). (b) The board may not prohibit a nursing education program from submitting an application for accreditation to the board before being authorized by the board for proprietary education (established by IC 21-18.5-5-1). (c) The board shall review and approve or deny a nursing education program's application for accreditation within ninety (90) days of being authorized by the board for proprietary education (established by IC 21-18.5-5-1) unless the nursing education program, after receiving authorization from the board of proprietary education, requests additional time from the board before the board's review of the application. As added by P.L.148-2023, SEC.13.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-7.2 Nursing education programs

Note: This version of section effective 7-1-2027. See also preceding version of this section, effective until 7-1-2027. Sec. 7.2. (a) As used in this section, "nursing education program" means a nursing education program that is required to be authorized by the commission for higher education established by IC 21-18-2-1. (b) The board may not prohibit a nursing education program from submitting an application for accreditation to the board before being authorized by the commission for higher education established by IC 21-18-2-1. (c) The board shall review and approve or deny a nursing education program's application for accreditation within ninety (90) days of being authorized by the commission for higher education established by IC 21-18-2-1 unless the nursing education program, after receiving authorization from the commission for higher education, requests additional time from the board before the board's review of the application. As added by P.L.148-2023, SEC.13. Amended by P.L.152-2026, SEC.445.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-7.3 Requirements for nurse faculty member without master's degree to teach clinical courses in eligible associate degree registered nursing program

Sec. 7.3. (a) The following definitions apply throughout this section: (1) "Eligible associate degree registered nursing program" means an associate degree registered nursing program that: (A) is accredited by the board; and (B) has an annual rate of successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) score of at least eighty percent (80%). (2) "Qualified nurse educator certificate program" means a nurse educator certificate program that: (A) is provided by an accredited institution; and (B) requires at least fifteen (15) credit hours for completion. (b) Notwithstanding 848 IAC 1-2-13(b), and subject to the approval of the board, an individual who holds a bachelor of science in nursing without having attained a master's degree in nursing may teach clinical courses in an eligible associate degree registered nursing program if: (1) subject to subsection (c), the individual: (A) is enrolled in a qualified nurse educator certificate program; and (B) completes the qualified nurse educator certificate program within two (2) years after the individual's hire date; (2) the individual has completed a qualified nurse educator certificate program; or (3) the individual is enrolled in a master's degree nursing program. (c) An individual described in subsection (b)(1) must: (1) show progress toward completion of the qualified nurse educator certificate program throughout the two (2) year period beginning on the individual's hire date; and (2) upon completion of the qualified nurse educator certificate program, enroll in a master's degree nursing program. As added by P.L.174-2018, SEC.42. Amended by P.L.216-2021, SEC.48; P.L.69-2022, SEC.4.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-8 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.8; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.7. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.162. Repealed by P.L.169-1985, SEC.97.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-9 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.9; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.8. Repealed by P.L.169-1985, SEC.97.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-10 Compensation of board members

Sec. 10. (a) Each member of the board who is not a state employee is entitled to the minimum salary per diem provided by IC 4-10-11-2.1(b). Such a member is also entitled to reimbursement for traveling expenses and other expenses actually incurred in connection with the member's duties, as provided in the state travel policies and procedures established by the department of administration and approved by the state budget agency. (b) Each member of the board who is a state employee but who is not a member of the general assembly is entitled to reimbursement for traveling expenses and other expenses actually incurred in connection with the member's duties, as provided in the state travel policies and procedures established by the department of administration and approved by the state budget agency. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.10; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.9. As amended by P.L.149-1987, SEC.58.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-10.5 Temporary permits

Sec. 10.5. (a) The board may issue a temporary permit to practice as a nurse to a nurse licensed to practice in another state or territory of the United States, who has applied to the board for licensure by endorsement and submitted proof of current licensure to the board. The permit is valid for ninety (90) days after issuance or upon denial of licensure by the board. The permit may be renewed by the board, for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days, if, in the determination of the board, it is not possible to complete the application process in that time period. (b) Persons holding a temporary permit to practice as a nurse are subject to the disciplinary provisions of this chapter and IC 25-1-9. (c) The board may establish by rule under IC 4-22-2 application procedures and requirements for the issuance of temporary permits under this section. As added by P.L.169-1985, SEC.71. Amended by P.L.149-1987, SEC.59; P.L.152-1988, SEC.16; P.L.48-1991, SEC.38; P.L.243-1995, SEC.1.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-11 Requirements for registered nurse applicants; temporary permits; endorsement license; fees; use of title

Sec. 11. (a) Any person who applies to the board for a license to practice as a registered nurse must: (1) not have: (A) been convicted of a crime that has a direct bearing on the person's ability to practice competently; or (B) committed an act that would constitute a ground for a disciplinary sanction under IC 25-1-9; (2) have completed: (A) the prescribed curriculum and met the graduation requirements of a state accredited program of registered nursing that only accepts students who have a high school diploma or its equivalent as determined by the board; or (B) the prescribed curriculum and graduation requirements of a nursing education program in a foreign country that is substantially equivalent to a board approved program as determined by the board. The board may by rule adopted under IC 4-22-2 require an applicant under this subsection to successfully complete an examination approved by the board to measure the applicant's qualifications and background in the practice of nursing and proficiency in the English language; and (3) be physically and mentally capable of and professionally competent to safely engage in the practice of nursing as determined by the board. The board may not require a person to have a baccalaureate degree in nursing as a prerequisite for licensure. An applicant meets the English proficiency requirement under subdivision (2) if the applicant passes an English course as certified in the transcript from the board's approved nursing education program or submits proof of passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) that was taken in only the English language. (b) The applicant must pass an examination in such subjects as the board may determine. (c) The board may issue a temporary registered nurse permit to practice as a registered nurse applicant to a person who has initially applied for license by examination, after the board receives the necessary materials to determine compliance with subsection (a). The temporary registered nurse permit is valid until the earlier of six (6) months after issuance or the registered nurse applicant's examination results under subsection (b) are received. If the registered nurse applicant does not receive a passing score on the first examination under subsection (b), the temporary registered nurse permit is no longer valid. (d) A registered nurse applicant must: (1) practice under the supervision of a registered nurse; and (2) use the abbreviation "RNG" after the registered nurse graduate's name. (e) The board may issue by endorsement a license to practice as a registered nurse to an applicant who has been licensed as a registered nurse, by examination, under the laws of another state if the applicant presents proof satisfactory to the board that, at the time that the applicant applies for an Indiana license by endorsement, the applicant holds a current license in another state and possesses credentials and qualifications that are substantially equivalent to requirements in Indiana for licensure by examination. The board may specify by rule what constitutes substantial equivalence under this subsection. (f) The board may issue by endorsement a license to practice as a registered nurse to an applicant who: (1) has completed the English version of the: (A) Canadian Nurse Association Testing Service Examination (CNAT); or (B) Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE); (2) achieved the passing score required on the examination at the time the examination was taken; (3) is currently licensed in a Canadian province or in another state; and (4) meets the other requirements under this section. (g) The board shall issue by endorsement or examination a license to practice as a registered nurse to an applicant who: (1) is a graduate of a foreign nursing school; (2) has successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX); (3) provides: (A) documentation that the applicant has: (i) taken an examination prepared by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools International, Inc. (CGFNS); and (ii) achieved the passing score required on the examination at the time the examination was taken; (B) a satisfactory Credentials Evaluation Service Professional Report issued by CGFNS; (C) a satisfactory VisaScreen Certificate verification letter issued by CGFNS; or (D) a satisfactory credential verification assessment from an organization that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services or any other organization approved by the board; and (4) meets the other requirements of this section. (h) Each applicant for examination and registration to practice as a registered nurse shall pay: (1) a fee set by the board; and (2) if the applicant is applying for a multistate license (as defined in IC 25-42-1-11) under IC 25-42 (Nurse Licensure Compact), a fee of twenty-five dollars ($25) in addition to the fee under subdivision (1); a part of which must be used for the rehabilitation of impaired registered nurses and impaired licensed practical nurses. Payment of the fee or fees shall be made by the applicant prior to the date of examination. (i) The lesser of the following amounts from fees collected under subsection (h) shall be deposited in the impaired nurses account of the state general fund established by section 34 of this chapter: (1) Twenty-five percent (25%) of the license application fee per license applied for under this section. (2) The cost per license to operate the impaired nurses program, as determined by the Indiana professional licensing agency. (j) Any person who holds a license to practice as a registered nurse in Indiana or under IC 25-42 may use the title "Registered Nurse" and the abbreviation "R.N.". No other person shall practice or advertise as or assume the title of registered nurse or use the abbreviation of "R.N." or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person using same is a registered nurse. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.11; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.10; Acts 1974, P.L.119, SEC.3; Acts 1975, P.L.272, SEC.1. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.163; Acts 1982, P.L.113, SEC.58; P.L.169-1985, SEC.72; P.L.149-1987, SEC.60; P.L.152-1988, SEC.17; P.L.48-1991, SEC.39; P.L.33-1993, SEC.30; P.L.181-1996, SEC.1; P.L.236-1999, SEC.1; P.L.181-2002, SEC.6; P.L.1-2007, SEC.173; P.L.134-2008, SEC.29; P.L.135-2019, SEC.2; P.L.156-2020, SEC.103; P.L.69-2022, SEC.5; P.L.148-2023, SEC.14; P.L.17-2024, SEC.17.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-12 Requirements for practical nurse applicants; temporary permits; endorsement license; fees; use of title

Sec. 12. (a) A person who applies to the board for a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse must: (1) not have been convicted of: (A) an act which would constitute a ground for disciplinary sanction under IC 25-1-9; or (B) a crime that has a direct bearing on the person's ability to practice competently; (2) have completed: (A) the prescribed curriculum and: (i) met the graduation requirements of a state accredited program of practical nursing; and (ii) provided proof of having earned a high school diploma or its equivalent to the state accredited program; as determined by the board; or (B) the prescribed curriculum and graduation requirements of a nursing education program in a foreign country that is substantially equivalent to a board approved program as determined by the board. The board may by rule adopted under IC 4-22-2 require an applicant under this subsection to successfully complete an examination approved by the board to measure the applicant's qualifications and background in the practice of nursing and proficiency in the English language; and (3) be physically and mentally capable of, and professionally competent to, safely engage in the practice of practical nursing as determined by the board. An applicant meets the English proficiency requirement under subdivision (2) if the applicant passes an English course as certified in the transcript from the board's approved nursing education program or submits proof of passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) that was taken in only the English language. (b) The applicant must pass an examination in such subjects as the board may determine. (c) The board may issue a temporary licensed practical nurse permit to practice as a licensed practical nurse applicant to a person who has initially applied for license by examination, after the board receives the necessary materials to determine compliance with subsection (a). The temporary licensed practical nurse permit is valid until the earlier of six (6) months after issuance or the licensed practical nurse applicant's examination results under subsection (b) are received. If the licensed practical nurse applicant does not receive a passing score on the first examination under subsection (b), the temporary licensed practical nurse permit is no longer valid. (d) A licensed practical nurse applicant must: (1) practice under the supervision of a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse; and (2) use the abbreviation "LPNG" after the licensed practical nurse graduate's name. (e) The board may issue by endorsement a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse to an applicant who has been licensed as a licensed practical nurse, by examination, under the laws of another state if the applicant presents proof satisfactory to the board that, at the time of application for an Indiana license by endorsement, the applicant possesses credentials and qualifications that are substantially equivalent to requirements in Indiana for licensure by examination. The board may specify by rule what shall constitute substantial equivalence under this subsection. (f) The board shall issue by endorsement or examination a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse to an applicant who: (1) is a graduate of a foreign nursing school; (2) has successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX); (3) provides: (A) documentation that the applicant has: (i) taken an examination prepared by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools International, Inc. (CGFNS); and (ii) achieved the passing score required on the examination at the time the examination was taken; (B) a satisfactory Credentials Evaluation Service Professional Report issued by CGFNS; (C) a VisaScreen Certificate verification letter issued by CGFNS; or (D) a satisfactory credential verification assessment from an organization that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services or any other organization approved by the board; and (4) meets the other requirements of this section. (g) Each applicant for examination and registration to practice as a practical nurse shall pay: (1) a fee set by the board; and (2) if the applicant is applying for a multistate license (as defined in IC 25-42-1-11) under IC 25-42 (Nurse Licensure Compact), a fee of twenty-five dollars ($25) in addition to the fee under subdivision (1); a part of which must be used for the rehabilitation of impaired registered nurses and impaired licensed practical nurses. Payment of the fees shall be made by the applicant before the date of examination. (h) The lesser of the following amounts from fees collected under subsection (g) shall be deposited in the impaired nurses account of the state general fund established by section 34 of this chapter: (1) Twenty-five percent (25%) of the license application fee per license applied for under this section. (2) The cost per license to operate the impaired nurses program, as determined by the Indiana professional licensing agency. (i) Any person who holds a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse in Indiana or under IC 25-42 may use the title "Licensed Practical Nurse" and the abbreviation "L.P.N.". No other person shall practice or advertise as or assume the title of licensed practical nurse or use the abbreviation of "L.P.N." or any other words, letters, signs, or figures to indicate that the person using them is a licensed practical nurse. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.12; Acts 1951, c.34, s.1; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.11. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.164; Acts 1982, P.L.113, SEC.59; P.L.169-1985, SEC.73; P.L.149-1987, SEC.61; P.L.152-1988, SEC.18; P.L.33-1993, SEC.31; P.L.181-2002, SEC.7; P.L.1-2007, SEC.174; P.L.134-2008, SEC.30; P.L.135-2019, SEC.3; P.L.156-2020, SEC.104; P.L.69-2022, SEC.6; P.L.148-2023, SEC.15; P.L.9-2024, SEC.469; P.L.17-2024, SEC.18; P.L.45-2025, SEC.3.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-12.5 Requirement for a high school diploma or its equivalent

Sec. 12.5. An applicant for a state accredited program of practical nursing is not required to have a high school diploma or its equivalent. However, a student of a state accredited program of practical nursing shall obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent before completing the program. As added by P.L.45-2025, SEC.4.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-12.6 Provisional license requirements for foreign nursing school graduates seeking licensure

Sec. 12.6. (a) An individual who: (1) is seeking: (A) a federally authorized work visa; (B) licensure by examination as a: (i) registered nurse under section 11(g); or (ii) licensed practical nurse under section 12(f); of this chapter; (2) does not have a Social Security number; and (3) meets all applicable requirements of this chapter; may not be required to provide a Social Security number as a condition of applying for or being issued a provisional license. (b) An individual described in subsection (a) shall provide to the board the following: (1) The individual's alien identification number. (2) A signed affidavit affirming that the individual is seeking a federally authorized work visa. (3) Documentation of an offer of employment to provide registered nursing or practical nursing services in Indiana that is a condition of the federally authorized work visa. The individual must affirm under the penalties of perjury that the information provided to the board under this subsection is true and accurate. (c) Upon verification of the individual's lawful status through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the board shall grant a provisional license to an individual who meets the requirements of subsections (a) and (b). (d) A provisional license issued under this section is valid for not more than one hundred eighty (180) days. The fee for a provisional license under this section is ten dollars ($10). (e) After being issued a Social Security number as a condition of a federally authorized work visa, an individual described in this section who is issued a provisional license shall provide to the board the individual's Social Security number. After receiving the individual's Social Security number, the board shall issue to the individual a license under section 11(g) or 12(f) of this chapter. (f) If an individual fails to provide the individual's Social Security number as required under subsection (e), the individual's provisional license lapses. As added by P.L.143-2025, SEC.47.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-13 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.13. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.165. Repealed by P.L.169-1985, SEC.97.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-13.1 Certified nurse midwives

Sec. 13.1. (a) An applicant who desires to practice certified nurse midwifery shall present to the board the applicant's license as a registered nurse and a diploma earned by the applicant from a school of midwifery approved or licensed by the board or licensing agency for midwives that is located in any state. (b) The applicant shall submit to an examination in certified nurse midwifery prescribed or administered by the board. If the application and qualifications are approved by the board, the applicant is entitled to receive a license that allows the applicant to practice midwifery as a certified nurse midwife. (c) The board shall adopt rules under section 7 of this chapter: (1) defining the scope of practice of a certified nurse midwife; and (2) for implementing this section. (d) A certified nurse who holds a license to practice midwifery under this section (formerly referred to as a "midwife" before the repeal of IC 34-18-2-19) shall, beginning July 1, 2013, be known as a "certified nurse midwife". As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.232-2013, SEC.19.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-14 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.14; Acts 1951, c.34, s.2; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.12; Acts 1975, P.L.272, SEC.2. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.166. Repealed by P.L.169-1985, SEC.97.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-15 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.15; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.13. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.167. Repealed by P.L.169-1985, SEC.97.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-16 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.16; Acts 1951, c.34, s.3; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.14; Acts 1975, P.L.272, SEC.3. Repealed by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.296.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-16.1 Expiration of license; renewal; fee

Sec. 16.1. (a) Subject to IC 25-1-2-6(e), a license to practice as a registered nurse expires on October 31 in each odd-numbered year. Failure to renew the license on or before the expiration date will automatically render the license invalid without any action by the board. (b) Subject to IC 25-1-2-6(e), a license to practice as a licensed practical nurse expires on October 31 in each even-numbered year. Failure to renew the license on or before the expiration date will automatically render the license invalid without any action by the board. (c) The procedures and fee for renewal shall be set by the board. If the license being renewed is a multistate license (as defined in IC 25-42-1-11) under IC 25-42 (Nurse Licensure Compact), a fee of twenty-five dollars ($25) must be paid in addition to the fee for renewal set by the board. (d) At the time of license renewal, each registered nurse and each licensed practical nurse shall pay a renewal fee, a portion of which shall be for the rehabilitation of impaired registered nurses and impaired licensed practical nurses. The lesser of the following amounts from fees collected under this subsection shall be deposited in the impaired nurses account of the state general fund established by section 34 of this chapter: (1) Twenty-five percent (25%) of the license renewal fee per license renewed under this section. (2) The cost per license to operate the impaired nurses program, as determined by the Indiana professional licensing agency. As added by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.168. Amended by P.L.169-1985, SEC.74; P.L.149-1987, SEC.62; P.L.127-1994, SEC.2; P.L.181-2002, SEC.8; P.L.1-2006, SEC.451; P.L.134-2008, SEC.31; P.L.177-2015, SEC.49; P.L.135-2019, SEC.4.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-17 Receipts; use and disposition

Sec. 17. All moneys received shall be deposited with the treasurer of state at the end of each month and be placed by him in the general fund of the state. The expenses of said board shall be paid from the general fund upon appropriation being made therefrom in the manner provided for the making of such appropriations. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.17. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.169.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-18 Failure to renew license; reinstatement; fee

Sec. 18. (a) Subject to IC 25-1-2-6(e), any person who fails to renew a license before it expires shall be reinstated by the board upon meeting the requirements under IC 25-1-8-6. (b) A person who fails to apply to reinstate a license under this section within three (3) years after the date it expires may be issued a license by the board if the person meets the requirements under IC 25-1-8-6. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.18; Acts 1951, c.34, s.4; Acts 1971, P.L.376, SEC.15; Acts 1975, P.L.272, SEC.4. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.170; P.L.169-1985, SEC.75; P.L.48-1991, SEC.40; P.L.33-1993, SEC.32; P.L.269-2001, SEC.17; P.L.177-2015, SEC.50.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.19; Acts 1951, c.34, s.5. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.171; P.L.169-1985, SEC.76. Repealed by P.L.149-1987, SEC.120.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19.4 Advanced practice nurse collaboration with licensed practitioner; privileges; supervisory rights and responsibilities

Sec. 19.4. (a) This section does not apply to certified registered nurse anesthetists. (b) As used in this section, "practitioner" has the meaning set forth in IC 16-42-19-5. However, the term does not include the following: (1) A veterinarian. (2) An advanced practice registered nurse. (3) A physician assistant. (c) An advanced practice registered nurse shall operate: (1) in collaboration with a licensed practitioner as evidenced by a practice agreement; (2) by privileges granted by the governing board of a hospital licensed under IC 16-21 with the advice of the medical staff of the hospital that sets forth the manner in which an advanced practice registered nurse and a licensed practitioner will cooperate, coordinate, and consult with each other in the provision of health care to their patients; or (3) by privileges granted by the governing body of a hospital operated under IC 12-24-1 that sets forth the manner in which an advanced practice registered nurse and a licensed practitioner will cooperate, coordinate, and consult with each other in the provision of health care to their patients. (d) This subsection applies for purposes of the Medicaid program to an advanced practice registered nurse who: (1) is licensed pursuant to IC 25-23-1-19.5; and (2) has been educated and trained to work with patients with addiction and mental health needs. An advanced practice registered nurse who meets the requirements of this subsection has all of the supervisory rights and responsibilities, including prior authorization, that are available to a licensed physician or a health service provider in psychology (HSPP) operating in a community mental health center certified under IC 12-21-2-3(5)(C). (e) Before January 1, 2021, the office of the secretary shall apply to the United States Department of Health and Human Services for any state plan amendment necessary to implement subsection (d). As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.105-2008, SEC.43; P.L.58-2014, SEC.8; P.L.35-2016, SEC.85; P.L.129-2018, SEC.30; P.L.127-2020, SEC.8.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19.5 Advanced practice registered nurses; authority to prescribe drugs

Sec. 19.5. (a) This section does not apply to certified registered nurse anesthetists. (b) The board shall establish a program under which advanced practice registered nurses who meet the requirements established by the board are authorized to prescribe drugs, including controlled substances (as defined in IC 35-48-1.1-7) in accordance with IC 25-1-9.3. (c) The authority granted by the board under this section: (1) expires on October 31 of the odd-numbered year following the year the authority was granted or renewed; and (2) is subject to renewal indefinitely for successive periods of two (2) years. (d) The rules adopted under section 7 of this chapter concerning the authority of advanced practice registered nurses to prescribe drugs must do the following: (1) Require an advanced practice registered nurse or a prospective advanced practice registered nurse who seeks the authority to submit an application to the board. (2) Require an applicant to satisfy the following as a prerequisite to the initial granting of the authority: (A) Meet all the qualifications for licensure as a registered nurse under this article. (B) Successfully complete: (i) education requirements determined by the board to be appropriate to the advanced practice registered nurse's role; and (ii) a graduate level course in pharmacology providing at least two (2) semester hours of academic credit. (C) Either: (i) provide documentation, as requested by the board, that the applicant has graduated before December 31, 1997, from an advanced, organized formal education program appropriate to the practice and that is acceptable to the board; or (ii) complete a graduate, postgraduate, or doctoral advanced practice registered nurse program from an accredited college or university. (3) Establish requirements for an advanced practice registered nurse to comply with national certification or the certification's equivalence, including a portfolio equivalence, appropriate to the advanced practice registered nurse's role. (4) Require, as a condition of the renewal of the authority, the completion by the advanced practice registered nurse of the continuing education requirements set out in section 19.7 of this chapter. As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.83-2000, SEC.1; P.L.58-2014, SEC.9; P.L.129-2018, SEC.31; P.L.28-2019, SEC.13; P.L.9-2022, SEC.47; P.L.186-2025, SEC.139.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19.6 Advanced practice registered nurses; identification numbers

Sec. 19.6. (a) When the board grants authority to an advanced practice registered nurse to prescribe legend drugs under this chapter, the board shall assign an identification number to the advanced practice registered nurse. (b) An advanced practice registered nurse who is granted authority by the board to prescribe legend drugs must do the following: (1) Enter on each prescription form that the advanced practice registered nurse uses to prescribe a legend drug: (A) the signature of the advanced practice registered nurse; (B) initials indicating the credentials awarded to the advanced practice registered nurse under this chapter; and (C) the identification number assigned to the advanced practice registered nurse under subsection (a). (2) Transmit the prescription in an electronic format for an electronically transmitted prescription. (3) Comply with all applicable state and federal laws concerning prescriptions for legend drugs, including the requirement to issue electronically transmitted prescriptions under IC 25-1-9.3. (c) An advanced practice registered nurse may be granted authority to prescribe legend drugs under this chapter only within the scope of practice of the advanced practice registered nurse and the scope of the licensed collaborating health practitioner. As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.129-2018, SEC.32; P.L.28-2019, SEC.14.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19.7 Renewal of prescriptive authority

Sec. 19.7. (a) This subsection applies to an applicant for renewal who has never received a renewal of prescriptive authority under section 19.5 of this chapter and whose prescriptive authority has never lapsed. If the applicant was initially granted prescriptive authority: (1) less than twelve (12) months before the expiration date of the prescriptive authority, no continuing education is required; or (2) at least twelve (12) months before the expiration date of the prescriptive authority, the applicant shall, subject to IC 25-1-4-3, attest to the board that the applicant has successfully completed at least fifteen (15) contact hours of continuing education. The hours must: (A) be completed after the prescriptive authority was granted and before the expiration of the prescriptive authority; (B) include at least four (4) contact hours of pharmacology; and (C) be approved by a nationally approved sponsor of continuing education for nurses, approved by the board, and listed by the Indiana professional licensing agency as approved hours. (b) This subsection applies to an applicant for renewal of prescriptive authority under section 19.5 of this chapter who is not described in subsection (a). The applicant shall, subject to IC 25-1-4-3, attest to the board that the applicant has successfully completed at least thirty (30) contact hours of continuing education. The hours must: (1) be completed within the two (2) years immediately preceding the renewal; (2) include at least eight (8) contact hours of pharmacology; and (3) be approved by a nationally approved sponsor of continuing education for nurses, be approved by the board, and be listed by the Indiana professional licensing agency as approved hours. (c) An applicant for renewal of prescriptive authority under this section must maintain national certification or certification equivalence, as required by section 19.5(d) of this chapter. As added by P.L.83-2000, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.269-2001, SEC.18; P.L.1-2006, SEC.452; P.L.129-2018, SEC.33.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19.8 Audit; procedure; provide information to board; order to show cause; hearing; divulging records to professional licensing agency; immunity from liability

Sec. 19.8. (a) Before December 31 of an even-numbered year, the Indiana professional licensing agency or the agency's designee shall randomly audit at least one percent (1%) but not more than ten percent (10%) of the practice agreements of advanced practice registered nurses with authority to prescribe legend drugs under section 19.5 of this chapter to determine whether the practice agreement meets the requirements of this chapter or rules adopted by the board. (b) The Indiana professional licensing agency shall establish an audit procedure, which may include the following: (1) Requiring the advanced practice registered nurse to provide the agency with a copy of verification of attendance at or completion of a continuing education course or program the advanced practice registered nurse attended during the previous two (2) years. (2) Requiring the advanced practice registered nurse and the licensed practitioner who have entered into a practice agreement to submit information on a form prescribed by the agency that must include a sworn statement signed by the advanced practice registered nurse and the licensed practitioner that the parties are operating within the terms of the practice agreement and the requirements under this chapter or rules adopted by the board. (3) Reviewing patient health records and other patient information at the practice location or by requiring the submission of accurate copies to determine if the parties are operating within the terms of the practice agreement and the requirements under this chapter or rules adopted by the board. (4) After a reasonable determination that the advanced practice registered nurse and the licensed practitioner who have entered into a practice agreement are not operating within the terms of the practice agreement, requiring the parties to appear before the agency or the agency's designee to provide evidence of compliance with the practice agreement. (c) Not more than sixty (60) days after the completion of the audit required in subsection (a), the Indiana professional licensing agency shall provide the board with the following: (1) A summary of the information obtained in the audit. (2) A statement regarding whether an advanced practice registered nurse and a licensed practitioner who have entered into a practice agreement that is audited under subsection (a) are operating within the terms of the practice agreement. The agency shall also provide a copy of the information described in this subsection to the board that regulates the licensed practitioner. (d) The Indiana professional licensing agency may cause to be served upon the advanced practice registered nurse an order to show cause to the board as to why the board should not impose disciplinary sanctions under IC 25-1-9-9 on the advanced practice registered nurse for the advanced practice registered nurse's failure to comply with: (1) an audit conducted under this section; or (2) the requirements of a practice agreement under this chapter. (e) Except for a violation concerning continuing education requirements under IC 25-1-4, the board shall hold a hearing in accordance with IC 4-21.5 and state the date, time, and location of the hearing in the order served under subsection (d). (f) The board that regulates the licensed practitioner may cause to be served upon the licensed practitioner an order to show cause to the board as to why the board should not impose disciplinary sanctions under IC 25-1-9-9 on the licensed practitioner for the licensed practitioner's failure to comply with: (1) an audit conducted under this section; or (2) the requirements of a practice agreement under this chapter. (g) The board that regulates the licensed practitioner shall hold a hearing in accordance with IC 4-21.5 and state the date, time, and location of the hearing in the order served under subsection (f). (h) An order to show cause issued under this section must comply with the notice requirements of IC 4-21.5. (i) The licensed practitioner may divulge health records and other patient information to the Indiana professional licensing agency or the agency's designee. The licensed practitioner is immune from civil liability for any action based upon release of the patient information under this section. As added by P.L.158-2003, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.1-2006, SEC.453; P.L.157-2006, SEC.62; P.L.129-2018, SEC.34.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-19.9 INSPECT program report in patient's medical file

Sec. 19.9. (a) This section does not apply to certified registered nurse anesthetists. (b) An advanced practice registered nurse may include a report from the INSPECT program in a patient's medical file. Any disclosure or release of a patient's medical file must be in compliance with IC 25-26-24-19. As added by P.L.82-2016, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.129-2018, SEC.35; P.L.51-2019, SEC.7.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-20 Application for nursing education program; employment of registered nurses

Sec. 20. (a) Any institution which desires to conduct a nursing education program shall apply to the board and submit evidence that: (1) it is prepared to give a minimum curriculum of organized instruction and clinical experience in nursing in conformity to the provisions of this chapter and the rules of the board. Such instruction and experience must be secured in more than one (1) institution or agency approved by the board; and (2) it is prepared to meet other standards established by this chapter and by the board. (b) An institution that conducts a nursing education program may employ a person who: (1) is a registered nurse with a bachelor's degree in nursing; and (2) has at least three (3) years of experience in nursing in the previous six (6) years; to instruct nursing students on a part-time basis for the purpose of clinical instruction. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.20; Acts 1951, c.34, s.6. As amended by Acts 1982, P.L.154, SEC.81; P.L.149-1987, SEC.63; P.L.177-2009, SEC.43; P.L.143-2025, SEC.48.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-20.1 Nursing school enrollment rates

Sec. 20.1. (a) As used in this section, "eligible nursing program" means a practical nursing program or an associate or bachelor's degree registered nursing program that: (1) is accredited by the board; and (2) has an annual rate of successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) score of at least eighty percent (80%). (b) As used in this section, "nursing program" means any of the following: (1) A licensed practical nursing program. (2) An associate degree nursing program. (3) A diploma nursing program. (4) A baccalaureate degree nursing program. (c) An institution that has been operating an eligible nursing program for at least five (5) years may increase the enrollment in any eligible nursing program at any rate the institution considers appropriate. (d) A nursing program that: (1) is operated by a postsecondary educational institution, as defined in IC 21-7-13-6(a)(1); (2) was accredited by the board on a date after June 30, 2020; and (3) has been operating for at least one (1) year; may increase its enrollment rate by not more than one hundred percent (100%). As added by P.L.69-2022, SEC.7. Amended by P.L.148-2023, SEC.16; P.L.89-2026, SEC.2.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-20.2 Substitution of simulation hours; location of clinical experience; rules

Sec. 20.2. (a) As used in this section, "clinical experience" means the learning experiences provided in facilities appropriate to the curriculum objectives. (b) As used in this section, "clinical hours" refers to the number of hours of clinical experience a nursing student is required to complete. (c) As used in this section, "NCLEX" refers to the National Council Licensure Examination that is: (1) provided by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing; and (2) used to determine the competency of graduates of nursing school. (d) As used in this section, "nursing program" means one (1) of the following: (1) A licensed practical nursing program. (2) An associate degree nursing program. (3) A diploma nursing program. (4) A baccalaureate degree nursing program. (e) As used in this section, "simulation hours" refers to the hours spent by a nursing student participating in an educational process: (1) that replicates real world clinical scenarios in a simulation lab; and (2) in which a nursing student develops and practices the nursing student's nursing skills. (f) A nursing program may allow substitution of simulation hours for clinical hours in the following manner: (1) Simulation for not more than fifty percent (50%) of clinical hours if a nursing program has an overall pass rate of at least eighty percent (80%) on the NCLEX. (2) Simulation for not more than twenty-five percent (25%) of clinical hours if a nursing program has an overall pass rate of less than eighty percent (80%) on the NCLEX. (g) A nursing program must offer a clinical experience that includes clinical hours in at least one (1) hospital licensed under IC 16-21-2 and one (1) health facility licensed under IC 16-28. (h) The board may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to implement this section. Nothing in this section prohibits a nursing program from substituting simulation hours for clinical hours in accordance with this section before the board adopts rules under this section. As added by P.L.69-2022, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.143-2025, SEC.49.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-20.3 Clinical preceptor qualifications; rules

Sec. 20.3. (a) As used in this section, "clinical preceptor" means an individual who is: (1) employed by a cooperating agency; and (2) responsible for supervising one (1) nursing student at a time in a clinical facility. (b) As used in this section, "cooperating agency" means an institution that cooperates with a nursing program to provide clinical facilities for the clinical experiences (as defined in section 20.2 of this chapter) of nursing students. (c) Each clinical preceptor must be a nurse licensed under this article. (d) Not later than July 1, 2025, the board shall adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to implement this section. As added by P.L.69-2022, SEC.9. Amended by P.L.152-2024, SEC.6.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-20.4 Part-time faculty

Sec. 20.4. (a) As used in this section, "faculty" refers to a group of individuals who are employed to administer and teach in a nursing program. (b) Beginning July 1, 2024, the majority of employees on the faculty of a nursing program may be part-time employees of an approved postsecondary educational institution (as defined in IC 21-7-13-6(a)) or a hospital that conducts the nursing program. (c) The board of nursing may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to implement this section. As added by P.L.69-2022, SEC.10. Amended by P.L.152-2024, SEC.7.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-21 Survey by board; approval; surveys of accredited schools

Sec. 21. (a) A survey of the institution or institutions of which the nursing education program is a part and of institutions affiliating with the nursing education program shall be made by a designated representative of the board. The surveyor shall submit a written report of the survey to the board. If, in the opinion of the board, the requirements for an accredited school of nursing are met, it shall approve the school as an accredited school of nursing. (b) From time to time as considered necessary by the board, it shall be the duty of the board, through a designated representative of the board, to survey all nursing education programs in the state. Written reports of such surveys shall be submitted to the board. If the board determines that any accredited nursing education program is not maintaining the standards required by the statutes and by the board, notice in writing specifying the defect or defects shall be immediately given to the nursing education program. A nursing education program which fails to correct these conditions to the satisfaction of the board within a reasonable time shall be removed from the list of accredited nursing education programs. (c) The board may elect to utilize a nursing education program's accreditation by a national accrediting body approved by the board and the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation (COPA) as evidence that the program has met all or part of the required state standards and prescribed curricula for continuing accreditation of nursing education programs. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.21. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.172; P.L.149-1987, SEC.64; P.L.137-2021, SEC.7.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-21.5 Education compliance officer

Sec. 21.5. The board may hire an education compliance officer who reports directly to the director of the board to oversee and perform the educational duties required under this chapter. As added by P.L.74-2013, SEC.1.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-22 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.22. As amended by Acts 1982, P.L.154, SEC.82. Repealed by P.L.149-1987, SEC.120.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-23 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.23. As amended by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.173. Repealed by P.L.149-1987, SEC.120.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-24 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.24. As amended by Acts 1982, P.L.154, SEC.83. Repealed by P.L.169-1985, SEC.97.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-25 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.25. As amended by Acts 1977, P.L.172, SEC.30; Acts 1979, P.L.87, SEC.8. Repealed by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.296.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-25.1 Repealed

As added by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.174. Amended by P.L.169-1985, SEC.77; P.L.149-1987, SEC.65. Repealed by P.L.152-1988, SEC.30.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-26 Duty of attorney general

Sec. 26. It shall be the duty of the attorney-general to represent the board in any court in which an action may be filed for the review of an order of the board. The attorney-general may, at his discretion, call to his assistance in such action, the prosecuting attorney of the county in which such action is filed. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.26.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-27 Violations; penalty

Sec. 27. A person who: (1) sells or fraudulently obtains or furnishes any nursing diploma, license or record; (2) practices nursing under cover of any diploma or license or record illegally or fraudulently obtained or assigned or issued unlawfully or under fraudulent representation; (3) practices nursing as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse unless licensed to do so under this chapter or IC 25-42; (4) uses in connection with the person's name any designation tending to imply that the person is a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse unless licensed to practice under this chapter or IC 25-42; (5) practices nursing during the time the person's license issued under this chapter or IC 25-42 is suspended or revoked; (6) conducts a school of nursing or a program for the training of practical nurses unless the school or program has been accredited by the board; or (7) otherwise violates this chapter; commits a Class B misdemeanor. Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.27; Acts 1974, P.L.119, SEC.4. As amended by Acts 1978, P.L.2, SEC.2543; Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.175; P.L.181-2002, SEC.9; P.L.1-2007, SEC.175; P.L.134-2008, SEC.32; P.L.156-2020, SEC.105.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-27.1 "Licensed professional"; limitations on application of chapter

Sec. 27.1. (a) As used in this section, "licensed health professional" means: (1) a registered nurse; (2) a licensed practical nurse; (3) a physician with an unlimited license to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine; (4) a licensed dentist; (5) a licensed chiropractor; (6) a licensed optometrist; (7) a licensed pharmacist; (8) a licensed physical therapist; (9) a licensed psychologist; (10) a licensed podiatrist; or (11) a licensed speech-language pathologist or audiologist. (b) This chapter does not prohibit: (1) furnishing nursing assistance in an emergency; (2) the practice of nursing by any student enrolled in a board approved nursing education program where such practice is incidental to the student's program of study; (3) the practice of any nurse who is employed by the government of the United States or any of its bureaus, divisions, or agencies while in the discharge of the nurse's official duties; (4) the gratuitous care of sick, injured, or infirm individuals by friends or the family of that individual; (5) the care of the sick, injured, or infirm in the home for compensation if the person assists only: (A) with personal care; (B) in the administration of a domestic or family remedy; or (C) in the administration of a remedy that is ordered by a licensed health professional and that is within the scope of practice of the licensed health professional under Indiana law; (6) performance of tasks by persons who provide health care services which are delegated or ordered by licensed health professionals, if the delegated or ordered tasks do not exceed the scope of practice of the licensed health professionals under Indiana law; (7) a physician with an unlimited license to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine in Indiana, a licensed dentist, chiropractor, dental hygienist, optometrist, pharmacist, physical therapist, podiatrist, psychologist, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist from practicing the person's profession; (8) a school corporation or school employee from acting under IC 34-30-14; (9) a personal services attendant from providing authorized attendant care services under IC 12-10-17.1; (10) an attendant who provides attendant care services (as defined in IC 16-18-2-28.5); or (11) the practice of nursing by a: (A) registered nurse applicant; or (B) licensed practical nurse applicant. As added by Acts 1981, P.L.222, SEC.176. Amended by P.L.169-1985, SEC.78; P.L.149-1987, SEC.66; P.L.156-1988, SEC.2; P.L.255-2001, SEC.18; P.L.212-2005, SEC.21; P.L.141-2006, SEC.107; P.L.148-2023, SEC.17.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-27.2 Injunction from continuing violation of chapter; punishment

Sec. 27.2. The attorney general, the board, the prosecuting attorney, or any citizen of any county in which a person violates this article may maintain an action in the name of the state to enjoin the person from continuing in violation of this article. A person who is enjoined and who violates an injunction shall be punished for contempt of court. An injunction issued under this section does not relieve a person from criminal prosecution but is in addition to any remedy provided under criminal law. As added by P.L.149-1987, SEC.67.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-28 Repealed

Formerly: Acts 1949, c.159, s.29. Amended by Acts 1982, P.L.154, SEC.84. Repealed by P.L.134-2008, SEC.52.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-29 Practitioners of Church of Christ Scientist

Sec. 29. (a) This chapter does not apply to a nurse practicing in accordance with the practice and principles of the body known as the Church of Christ Scientist. (b) A sanitarium, nursing home, or rest home provided that it is listed and certified by the Commission for Accreditation of Christian Science Nursing Organizations/Facilities, Inc. does not have to comply with any rule adopted by the board, except a rule that concerns the following: (1) The sanitary and safe conditions of the premises. (2) The cleanliness of operation. (3) The physical equipment. (c) The chapter does not apply to a person if: (1) the person is licensed as a nurse in another jurisdiction; (2) the person is employed by an individual, an agency, or a legal business entity located in that jurisdiction; (3) the person's employment responsibilities include transporting a patient between jurisdictions; (4) no trip made by the person into Indiana for the purpose of transporting a patient lasts more than seventy-two (72) hours; and (5) the person does not make more than six (6) trips into Indiana for the purpose of transporting a patient during any twelve (12) month period. As added by P.L.187-1991, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.1-1992, SEC.132; P.L.185-1993, SEC.10; P.L.111-1996, SEC.3.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-30 Administration of anesthesia by certified registered nurse anesthetist

Sec. 30. (a) A certified registered nurse anesthetist may administer anesthesia if the certified registered nurse anesthetist acts under the direction of and in the immediate presence of a physician. (b) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as requiring a certified registered nurse anesthetist to obtain prescriptive authority to administer anesthesia under subsection (a). As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.177-2009, SEC.44.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-31 Rehabilitation of impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse; use of information after noncompliance

Sec. 31. (a) As used in this section, "impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse" means a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse who has been affected by the use or abuse of alcohol or other drugs. (b) The board shall assist in the rehabilitation of an impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. (c) The board may do the following: (1) Enter into agreements, provide grants, and make other arrangements with statewide nonprofit professional associations, foundations, or other entities specifically devoted to the rehabilitation of impaired health care professionals to identify and assist impaired registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. (2) Accept and designate grants, public and private financial assistance, and licensure fees to fund programs under subdivision (1) to assist impaired registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. (d) Except as provided in subsection (f), all: (1) information furnished to a nonprofit professional association, foundation, or other entity specifically devoted to the rehabilitation of impaired health care professionals, including interviews, reports, statements, and memoranda; and (2) findings, conclusions, or recommendations that result from a proceeding of the professional association, foundation, or other entity specifically devoted to the rehabilitation of impaired health care professionals; are privileged and confidential. (e) The records of a proceeding under subsection (d) may be used only in the exercise of proper functions of the board, and may not become public records or subject to a subpoena or discovery proceeding. (f) Information received by the board from the board designated rehabilitation program for noncompliance by the registered nurse or licensed practical nurse may be used by the board in any disciplinary or criminal proceedings instituted against the impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. (g) The board designated rehabilitation program shall: (1) immediately report to the board the name and results of any contact or investigation concerning an impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse who the program believes constitutes a certain, immediate, and impending danger to either the public or the impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse; and (2) in a timely fashion report to the board an impaired registered nurse or licensed practical nurse: (A) who refuses to cooperate with the program; (B) who refuses to submit to treatment; or (C) whose impairment is not substantially or significantly alleviated through treatment, as determined by accepted medical standards. As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.12. Amended by P.L.243-1995, SEC.2; P.L.181-2002, SEC.10.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-33 Professing to be nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist; use of title

Sec. 33. (a) An individual may not: (1) profess to be a nurse practitioner; or (2) use the title "nurse practitioner"; unless the individual is a nurse practitioner. (b) An individual may not: (1) profess to be a clinical nurse specialist; or (2) use the title "clinical nurse specialist"; unless the individual is a clinical nurse specialist. As added by P.L.185-1993, SEC.13.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-34 Impaired nurses account

Sec. 34. (a) The impaired nurses account is established within the state general fund for the purposes of providing money for: (1) providing rehabilitation of impaired registered nurses or licensed practical nurses under this article; (2) funding the education compliance officer provided for under section 21.5 of this chapter; and (3) carrying out any of the duties of the board. The account shall be administered by the Indiana professional licensing agency. (b) Expenses of administering the account shall be paid from money in the account. The account consists of the following: (1) Funds collected for the rehabilitation of impaired registered nurses and impaired licensed practical nurses under sections 11(h), 12(g), and 16.1(d) of this chapter. (2) Funds collected under section 31(c)(2) of this chapter. (3) Fines collected from registered nurses or licensed practical nurses under IC 25-1-9-9(a)(6). (c) The treasurer of state shall invest the money in the account not currently needed to meet the obligations of the account in the same manner as other public money may be invested. (d) Money in the account is appropriated to the board for the purposes stated in subsection (a). (e) The amount paid from the impaired nurses account in a state fiscal year for the purposes stated in subsection (a)(2) and (a)(3) may not exceed twelve and one-half percent (12.5%) of the average yearly revenue of the impaired nurses account for the two (2) preceding state fiscal years. As added by P.L.127-1994, SEC.3. Amended by P.L.181-2002, SEC.11; P.L.1-2006, SEC.454; P.L.1-2007, SEC.176; P.L.134-2008, SEC.33; P.L.74-2013, SEC.2; P.L.69-2022, SEC.11; P.L.148-2023, SEC.18.

Ind. Code § 25-23-1-35 Requirements to practice as a forensic nurse; continuing education

Sec. 35. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), in order for an individual to practice as a forensic nurse, the individual must meet the following requirements: (1) Holds an active license as a registered nurse under this article. (2) Completes a biennial forensic nursing educational program that has either been: (A) identified by the state department of health's statewide sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) coordinator and administered by the Indiana SANE training project; or (B) approved by the board and that is substantially equivalent to a program described in clause (A). (3) Submits to the board a certificate of completion of a program described in subdivision (2). (b) The board shall determine the criteria and requirements for biennial continuing education for a forensic nurse, taking into consideration programs approved by the state department of health's statewide sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) coordinator or provided by the Indiana SANE training project. A forensic nurse shall meet the continuing education requirements set by the board under this subsection in order to continue practicing as a forensic nurse. (c) A forensic nurse who is practicing as a forensic nurse on June 30, 2021, is not required to meet the education requirements set forth in subsection (a)(2) until June 30, 2023. As added by P.L.90-2021, SEC.2.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://iga.in.gov/laws/2026/ic/titles/25Fetched: 10/17/2026

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