Section 246-840-800 - Scope of practice - Advisory opinions(1) The commission may issue advisory opinions in response to questions put to it by professional health associations, nursing practitioners and consumers concerning the authority of various categories of nursing personnel to perform particular acts. Such questions must be presented in writing to the department staff.(2) Questions may be referred to a committee of the commission. Upon such referral, the committee shall develop a draft response which shall be presented to the full commission at a public meeting for ratification, rejection or modification. The committee may, at its discretion, consult with health care practitioners for assistance in developing its draft response.(3) If the commission issues an opinion on a given issue, such opinion shall be provided to the requesting party and shall be included in the commission minutes.(4) Each opinion issued shall include a clear statement to the effect that: (a) The opinion is advisory and intended for the guidance of the requesting party only; and(b) The opinion is not legally binding and does not have the force and effect of a duly promulgated regulation or a declaratory ruling by the commission.(5) In no event shall this section be construed to supersede the authority of the commission to adopt rules related to the scope of practice nor shall it be construed to restrict the ability of any person to propose a rule or to seek a declaratory judgment from the commission.Wash. Admin. Code § 246-840-800
Statutory Authority: Chapter 18.79 RCW. 97-13-100, § 246-840-800, filed 6/18/97, effective 7/19/97.