The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) is responsible for regulating the practice of nursing in the state of Texas. As part of this responsibility, the BON has established a Safe Harbor program to provide support and resources to nurses who may be experiencing difficulties in their practice, such as substance abuse or mental health issues.
The Safe Harbor program is designed to protect both the public and the nurse by providing a structured approach for addressing and addressing problems that may arise in a nurse's practice. It allows nurses to seek help and treatment for any issues they may be facing, without fear of discipline or punishment from the BON.
To participate in the Safe Harbor program, a nurse must voluntarily self-report their issues to the BON and agree to follow a specific plan for addressing and resolving those issues. This plan may include treatment, monitoring, and other supportive measures, as determined by the BON and the nurse's healthcare team.
The Safe Harbor program has been successful in helping nurses to get the support and treatment they need, while also ensuring that the public is protected from any potential harm. It has been praised by nursing organizations and advocacy groups as an important resource for nurses in need of assistance.
In addition to the Safe Harbor program, the BON also offers other resources and support to nurses, including continuing education, peer assistance programs, and resources for nursing students. These resources help to promote the overall health and well-being of nurses in Texas, which in turn benefits the public by ensuring that nurses are able to provide high-quality care.
Overall, the Texas Board of Nursing's Safe Harbor program is an important resource for nurses facing challenges in their practice, and helps to protect both the public and the nurse. By providing support and resources to nurses in need, the BON is able to ensure that the nursing profession in Texas remains strong and capable of providing the highest level of care to patients.