Philippine Nursing Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9173)

These flashcards cover the key provisions, qualifications, powers, penalties, and other significant details found in the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9173).

Under what title is Republic Act No. 9173 more commonly known?

The Philippine Nursing Act of 2002.

What is the primary policy declared in the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002?

To protect and improve the nursing profession through relevant education, humane working conditions, better career prospects, and dignified existence for nurses while guaranteeing quality basic health services nationwide.

How many members compose the Professional Regulatory Board of Nursing?

Seven (1 Chairperson and 6 members).

Who appoints the Chairperson and members of the Board of Nursing?

The President of the Philippines.

Name three basic qualifications required of the Board of Nursing members.

Natural-born Filipino, member in good standing of the accredited professional organization of nurses, and a registered nurse with at least a master’s degree (Chairperson must hold an MN).

What minimum length of continuous practice must a Board member have prior to appointment?

At least 10 years, with the last 5 years in the Philippines.

What is the term of office for the Chairperson and members of the Board of Nursing?

Three (3) years, renewable for one additional term.

State two key powers of the Board of Nursing.

Conduct licensure examinations for nurses and issue, suspend, or revoke certificates of registration.

Within how many days after the calendar year must the Board submit its annual report to the President?

At the close of its calendar year (no specific day, but the report covers the year’s proceedings).

Give one ground for removal or suspension of a Board member.

Continued neglect of duty or incompetence, commission/toleration of examination irregularities, or unprofessional/immoral conduct.

What exam must all applicants pass to practice nursing in the Philippines?

The written licensure examination administered by the Board of Nursing.

List the three main qualifications for admission to the nursing licensure examination.

Filipino citizenship (or reciprocity), good moral character, and a BSN degree from a government-recognized school.

What is the passing general average for the nursing licensure exam?

At least 75%, with no subject below 60%.

What must successful examinees do before they can practice nursing?

Take an oath of profession before the Board or an authorized official.

How can a foreign-licensed nurse practice temporarily in the Philippines?

By obtaining a special/temporary permit approved by the Commission.

Give one ground for revocation or suspension of a nurse's certificate of registration.

Unprofessional conduct, gross incompetence, malpractice, fraud in obtaining the license, or violation of the Act/Code of Ethics.

After how many years may a revoked certificate be re-issued for reasons of equity and justice?

After a maximum of four (4) years.

What is the minimum base pay for nurses in public health institutions under RA 9173?

Not lower than Salary Grade 15.

How long must inactive nurses (≥5 years) train before returning to practice?

One month didactic training and three months practicum.

Name one qualification required of faculty teaching professional nursing courses.

Must be a registered nurse with at least one year of clinical practice and a master's degree in nursing or related field.

What additional qualifications must a dean of a college of nursing possess?

Master’s degree in nursing and at least five years of nursing experience.

Define the scope of nursing practice according to RA 9173.

Initiating and performing nursing services to individuals, families, communities in any setting, including health promotion, illness prevention, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care across the life span.

State one duty of the nurse under the Act.

Provide nursing care using the nursing process, including administration of medications and health teaching.

What are the academic requirements for a chief nurse in a tertiary hospital?

BSN with 9 graduate units in management, 5 years supervisory experience, and a master's degree major in nursing.

Within how many days must the Board formulate a comprehensive nursing specialty program after effectivity?

Within ninety (90) days.

How long must beneficiaries of the comprehensive nursing specialty program serve in Philippine hospitals?

At least two (2) continuous years.

Which two government agencies equally share funding for the specialty training program?

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

What penalty faces someone practicing nursing without a license under RA 9173?

Fine of ₱50,000–₱100,000 or imprisonment of 1–6 years, or both.

What is prohibited regarding the use of the titles B.S.N./R.N.?

Using these appendages without having been conferred the degree or registration is punishable.

Who is primarily responsible for enforcing RA 9173?

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board of Nursing.

Which previous law was repealed by the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002?

Republic Act No. 7164, the Philippine Nursing Act of 1991.

When did RA 9173 take effect?

Fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or two newspapers of general circulation.

Who signed RA 9173 into law and on what date?

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on October 21, 2002.

What is the required nurse-patient ratio obligation of hospitals according to RA 9173?

Hospitals must observe the standard nurse-patient ratio set by the Department of Health.

Name one non-cash benefit mentioned for nurses under the incentive and benefit system.

Free hospital care for nurses and their dependents or scholarship grants.

What continuing requirement must nurses fulfill to maintain competence?

Engage in continuing professional education approved by the Board.

What management coursework is required for supervisory nursing positions?

At least nine (9) units in management and administration at the graduate level.

Which section specifies prohibited acts and penalties in RA 9173?

Section 35 – Prohibitions in the Practice of Nursing.

What must the Board issue in coordination with the professional organization within one year of the Act’s effectivity?

A Code of Ethics for nurses.

If a part of RA 9173 is declared unconstitutional, what happens to the rest of the Act?

The remaining provisions continue to be valid (Severability Clause).