| 1. May a graduate of a nursing program obtain a temporary license to practice as a nurse while waiting to take the licensing examination?
Yes, a temporary license to practice professional or practical nursing may be issued to an individual who:
- Has graduated from an approved nursing program, OR has completed course work in a registered nurse program that is considered comparable to practical nurse education
- Has applied for a permanent license by examination
- Is eligible to take the examination
- Has submitted an application for licensure by examination, application for temporary license, official education transcript, criminal background check, AND appropriate fees.
2. How long is a temporary license valid?
- The temporary license expires 120 days from the date of issue, OR
- The temporary license is invalid when the applicant receives the results of the licensing examination, whichever is first.
3. Can a temporary license be renewed?
- No, a temporary license can be granted only ONE time per license category.
4. What title may the nurse with a temporary license use?
- The temporary license holder who is an applicant for a registered nurse license must use the title "Graduate Nurse" or the abbreviation "GN."
- The temporary license holder who is an applicant for a licensed practice nurse license must use the title "Graduate Practical Nurse" or the abbreviation "GPN."
5. What activities may the GN/ GPN do?
- A GN/ GPN must be supervised by a registered nurse (RN).
- The RN who is assigned to supervise the GN/ GPN may delegate nursing activities to the graduate after evaluating the competencies of the graduate and the needs of the patients.
- GNs/ GPNs may not practice nursing in settings in which a RN is not available to provide supervision.
- GNs/GPNs should not supervise other nursing personnel.
6. What are the responsibilities of the RN supervisor?
The RN who is designated as the supervisor of a GN/ GPN should:
- Know the expiration date of the temporary license
- Evaluate the abilities of the GN/ GPN
- Assess the needs of the patients to be assigned to determine the level of supervision needed
- Delegate appropriately
- Provide direction and consultation to the GN/ GPN as warranted.
- Ensure the RN can be available at all times to the GN/ GPN.
7. What are the responsibilities of the GN/ GPN? The GN/ GPN should:
- Know the expiration date of the temporary license
- Be able to identify the RN who is providing supervision
- Consult with the supervising RN as warranted
8. Must the RN countersign documentation completed by the GN/ GPN?
- No, the rules do not require that documentation be countersigned.
9. Does the GN/GPN practice under the license of the supervising RN?
- No, the GN/ GPN practices within the scope of the temporary license.
10. If a GN or GPN resides in New Hampshire, may the GN or GPN practice as a graduate nurse in another compact state?
- No, the temporary license for practice in the graduate role is a NH only license that allows the individual to practice only in New Hamphire.
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