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nurses act cap 257 explained

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. The Nurses Act, Cap 257

   1. Purpose of the Act

   2. Definitions

   3. Registration of Nurses

   4. Disciplinary Proceedings

   5. Appeals

   6. Offences and Penalties

3. Conclusion

Introduction

The Nurses Act, Cap 257, is a crucial piece of legislation in Kenya that governs the practice of nursing and ensures the protection of the public. This Act outlines the qualifications, registration, and ethical standards required for nurses to practice in Kenya. It also establishes a framework for disciplinary proceedings and appeals against decisions made by the Nursing Council of Kenya.

The Nurses Act, Cap 257

1. Purpose of the Act

The Nurses Act, Cap 257, aims to:

• Regulate the practice of nursing in Kenya: This includes setting standards for education, training, and practice.

• Protect the public from unqualified or incompetent nurses: The Act ensures that only registered nurses are allowed to practice.

• Promote the professional development of nurses: The Act encourages nurses to continue their education and training.

• Establish a framework for disciplinary proceedings: The Act provides a mechanism for dealing with nurses who violate the code of ethics or engage in unprofessional conduct.

Source: Nurses Act, Cap 257, Section 1

2. Definitions

The Act defines key terms related to nursing practice, including:

• "Nurse": A person registered under this Act to practice nursing.

• "Nursing": The application of knowledge and skills to the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and care of individuals, families, and communities.

• "Nursing Council of Kenya": A body established under this Act to regulate the practice of nursing.

• "Registered Nurse": A nurse who has been registered with the Nursing Council of Kenya.

Source: Nurses Act, Cap 257, Section 2

3. Registration of Nurses

The Act outlines the requirements for registration as a nurse in Kenya:

• Qualifications: Applicants must possess a recognized nursing qualification and pass an examination conducted by the Nursing Council of Kenya.

• Good Character: Applicants must be of good character and have no criminal record.

• Health: Applicants must be physically and mentally fit to practice nursing.

• Registration Fee: Applicants must pay a prescribed registration fee.

Source: Nurses Act, Cap 257, Sections 3-6

4. Disciplinary Proceedings

The Nursing Council of Kenya has the power to investigate and discipline nurses who violate the code of ethics or engage in unprofessional conduct. This includes:

• Complaints: The Council can investigate complaints received from the public, other nurses, or healthcare institutions.

• Disciplinary Hearings: The Council can hold disciplinary hearings to determine whether a nurse has committed an offense.

• Penalties: The Council can impose penalties on nurses found guilty of misconduct, including:

  • Reprimand: A formal warning.

  • Suspension: Temporary suspension of the nurse's registration.

  • Cancellation: Permanent cancellation of the nurse's registration.

Source: Nurses Act, Cap 257, Sections 10-14

5. Appeals

Nurses who are dissatisfied with a decision made by the Nursing Council of Kenya can appeal to the High Court.

Source: Nurses Act, Cap 257, Section 15

6. Offences and Penalties

The Act outlines various offenses related to the practice of nursing, including:

• Practicing without registration: A person who practices nursing without being registered is guilty of an offense and liable to a fine or imprisonment.

• Impersonating a nurse: A person who impersonates a registered nurse is guilty of an offense and liable to a fine or imprisonment.

• Falsely claiming to be a registered nurse: A person who falsely claims to be a registered nurse is guilty of an offense and liable to a fine or imprisonment.

Source: Nurses Act, Cap 257, Sections 16-18

Conclusion

The Nurses Act, Cap 257, plays a vital role in regulating the practice of nursing in Kenya, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients. The Act establishes a comprehensive framework for the registration, discipline, and professional development of nurses, while also protecting the public from unqualified or incompetent practitioners.