What authority does the South Carolina Board of Nursing have regarding disciplinary actions?

The South Carolina Board of Nursing possesses the authority to suspend, revoke, or deny licenses based on violations of the Nurse Practice Act. This regulatory power is central to the Board's role in ensuring that nursing practice within the state adheres to established standards and laws. When a nurse violates provisions outlined in the Nurse Practice Act, the Board is tasked with taking appropriate disciplinary actions to protect public safety and maintain the integrity of the nursing profession.

The Nurse Practice Act serves as a critical framework governing nursing practice, outlining acceptable behaviors and competencies for licensed nurses. Therefore, when issues arise, such as misconduct or professional incompetence, the Board can impose significant penalties, including the revocation of a license, which prevents the individual from practicing nursing legally in South Carolina.

Other options, while relevant to nursing regulation, either do not reflect the full extent of the Board's authority or fall outside its disciplinary scope. For instance, issuing fines for minor infractions is typically not a primary function of the Board in South Carolina's regulatory landscape, and while recommending additional training can be part of a corrective action plan, it does not carry the same weight as license suspension or revocation. Oversight of nursing examinations is also an important duty, but it does not pertain directly