What does SBON mean in NURSING

A State Board of Nursing is a governmental agency within each state's department responsible for regulating the practice of nursing. It is charged with the responsibility to protect the public by setting and enforcing standards in nursing education, licensure and practice.

The primary role of the State Board of Nursing is to protect the safety and welfare of citizens through the regulation and enforcement of standards related to nursing practice. The board also approves all nursing programs, establishes rules for licensure and renewal, investigates complaints against nurses, enforces disciplinary actions, monitors continuing education requirements, and approves or disapproves materials used in nursing programs.

Applicants who have graduated from an accredited nursing program and passed their national licensing exam may apply for licensure from their respective state board. All applicants must meet pre-licensure requirements which vary by state for certification eligibility.

Processing time for applications vary based on individual states’ regulations; however generally approval takes between 6–8 weeks upon receiving your application.

Depending on your individual state’s regulations, there may be additional documentation you need to provide such as background checks, course transcripts or proof that you have taken any additional courses required by your licensing jurisdiction. Additionally, you may also need to provide proof that you have completed any necessary clinical hours logged prior to graduating from your program.

No; in order for nurses to practice legally as Registered Nurses (RNs), they must maintain an active license without lapse. If an RN has not renewed their license before its expiration date they will be defined as “inactive” on the state registry and will not be able to work legally in their jurisdiction until the license is renewed. In this case, contact your local State Board office for more information about getting reinstated into active status again.

Renewal processes vary depending on individual state policies; however renewals are typically done online through each board’s website with payment made through credit card or check/money order sent or faxed directly to that office. You may also submit renewal applications via mail if allowed by your specific board.

Your local or state nurse association has information available regarding updates related to changes in law regulations affecting nursing professionals in your area or check out newsletters issued by various State Boards across jurisdictions which include information on current legislation impacting professional nurse practices.

: Yes; for most states fees are assessed at initial licensure application as well as when renewing licenses annually afterwards.

: In certain cases where individuals disagree with decisions made by their licensing boards they have avenues open which allow them file appeals directly with those departments or seek legal counsel if needed.

: Generally continuing education units (CEU) are required every two years when nurses wish remain professionally certified within their respective jurisdictions.