NCNZ Professional Responsibility 2

Question 1

Under NZ law, what happens if a nurse practises without a current annual practising certificate (APC)?

Accepted Answer

They are committing an offence under the HPCA Act and may face prosecution and disciplinary action

Answer

Under the HPCA Act, practising nursing without a current APC is an offence. The nurse may face prosecution, fines, and disciplinary proceedings through the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.

Question 2

What is the role of the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal (HPDT) regarding NZ nurses?

Accepted Answer

To hear and determine disciplinary charges against nurses for professional misconduct or incompetence

Answer

The HPDT is an independent tribunal that hears and determines charges of professional misconduct or incompetence against registered health practitioners, including nurses. It can impose penalties ranging from censure to cancellation of registration.

Question 3

What is the NZ nurse's obligation under the Treaty of Waitangi / Te Tiriti o Waitangi?

Accepted Answer

To practise in a culturally safe manner that respects Māori health perspectives and addresses health inequities

Answer

NZ nurses have a professional obligation to practise in a culturally safe manner, acknowledge the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (partnership, participation, protection), and work to address health inequities experienced by Māori.

Question 4

What must a NZ nurse do if they are charged with a criminal offence?

Accepted Answer

Notify the Nursing Council of New Zealand as soon as reasonably practicable

Answer

Under the HPCA Act and NCNZ requirements, nurses must notify the Nursing Council as soon as reasonably practicable if they are charged with, convicted of, or plead guilty to a criminal offence, as it may affect their fitness to practise.

Question 5

What is the NZ nursing standard regarding documentation of patient care?

Accepted Answer

All nursing assessments, interventions, and outcomes must be accurately and contemporaneously documented

Answer

NZ nursing standards require that all assessments, care plans, interventions, and outcomes are accurately documented at the time they occur (contemporaneous documentation). This is both a professional standard and a legal requirement.

NCNZ Practice Test

NCNZ Practice Test

NCNZ Professional Responsibility 2