CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska “Developing and Implementing Guidelines for Consistent Decision Making” Alice R. Faucett

CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska Parameter - means “a limitation or boundary” In discipline, parameters are a set of specific guidelines to be used by staff/committees, in the Board’s absence, to help resolve discipline complaints efficiently and consistently. ALL parameters must be approved by the Board or designated authority. Utilizing Parameters in Discipline

In this Session We Will: Identify why and when a parameter is necessary Define the parameter and limitations to consider Determine Implementation Methods Discuss how to evaluate whether or not a parameter has been appropriately implemented CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

Why a Parameter Staff and/or Committee can continue with work and decision making Better use of staff and Board time Parameters help maintain consistency in decision making: »Examples a. DUI Complaints and Applicants b. Action by other Boards CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

When a Parameter Clean up Cases Same fact Pattern: »Examples a. Practicing on lapsed license b. Falsifying Application CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

Define the Parameter and Consider Limitations Is parameter for staff or a Board Committee Should parameter contain formal discipline Should parameter allow for any subjective decisions CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

Implementation Identify cases when parameter may be useful Write the parameter Get Board ratification/approval Distribute to key individuals/groups Ensure boundaries are understood Utilize parameter CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

Evaluate Use of Parameter Track cases throughout the process with same fact pattern and note the discipline Supply full Board with a number of consent agreements/decisions and discuss whether outcome is satisfactory Track timeliness in decision making CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

Other Considerations Legal limitations Appropriate staff and new staff Regular review of parameters by full Board Public perception CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska

CLEAR 2008 Annual Conference Anchorage, Alaska My Contact Information Alice R. Faucett General Counsel/Director of Discipline West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses 101 Dee Drive, Suite 102 Charleston, WV