Choosing or becoming an interim administrator.

Filling an administrative position on an interim basis requires careful deliberation even when the decision has to be made quickly. A poor fit, even for a short-term position, can lead to problems for the interim administrator, the subsequent permanent administrator, faculty, staff, students, and the nursing program. This article poses questions for decision makers who are contemplating filling a position with an interim appointee. These decision makers must determine the need for an interim administrator, his or her role, the anticipated length of an interim appointment, and whether the interim appointee can apply for the permanent position. In addition, relevant questions are presented for those persons who are considering accepting an interim position, including questions about the position itself and their preparation and personal goals and considerations for leaving the temporary position.

Transition to community-based nursing curriculum: processes and outcomes.

As the health care delivery system evolves, nurse educators must prepare graduates who can meet the comprehensive health needs of communities in a variety of settings. This article describes one college's process of curricular change from a traditional to community-based format. The concepts that guided curriculum development and implementation are presented, along with the outcomes that have resulted from this change. Lessons learned as the curriculum was restructured are described.

Nurses' promise to safeguard the public: is it time for nationally mandated background checks?

A historical perspective on healthcare regulation is provided along with the details of the process of fingerprinting and background checks. Issues are raised concerning the validity and reliability of background checks. Information on the status of the individual states is provided by means of a chart and a discussion ensues regarding the rationalization for requiring background checks and fingerprinting. Finally, questions and recommendations are posed regarding making background checks a requirement for licensure and/or entry into nursing schools.

Moral turpitude: a benchmark toward eligibility for registered nurse licensure?

The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the concept of moral turpitude and related terms as they are used in the process of licensing professional nurses. The researchers reviewed applications for licensure and nurse practice acts or rules and regulations for nursing for the 50 states and Washington, DC. Terms such as moral turpitude, moral character, and morality are used by approximately half of the states and, when used, are not usually defined. Agreement among states on uniform definitions and standards of nursing practice can be a step toward aligning practice acts, bringing consistency to disciplinary actions, and informing the public about the profession's standards for practice.