The First State's Top 10: Most Valuable Nurses Benefits

Delaware's highlights for nursing professionals include its status as a "Full Practice Authority" state for APRNs, its membership in the Nurse Licensure Compact, and a robust state loan repayment program. Here's the full WeSalute ranking for the top ten professional resources and benefits for nurses in Delaware:

1. Full Practice Authority for APRNs: This is a career-defining benefit. Delaware grants full practice and prescriptive authority to Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) from the start of licensure. This allows them to practice to the full extent of their education and training without a mandated collaborative agreement with a physician.
2. Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Membership: Delaware is a member of the NLC. This is a primary benefit, allowing RNs and LPNs who hold a multistate license to practice in any of the 40+ other compact states without needing to obtain an additional license.
3. Delaware State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP): This is a high-value financial incentive. Licensed RNs and APRNs who agree to work for a minimum of two years in a designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) can receive substantial loan repayment awards, helping to significantly reduce education debt.
4. Mandatory Continuing Education (CE): The Delaware Board of Nursing mandates specific CE to ensure high standards of care. 
   • RNs: Must complete 30 contact hours every two-year renewal period.
   • LPNs: Must complete 24 contact hours every two-year renewal period.
5. Mandatory Substance Abuse CE: A key public health benefit is the state's focus on the addiction crisis. As part of their total CE, all RNs and LPNs must complete 3 contact hours related to substance abuse. APRNs with prescriptive authority must complete 2 hours on controlled substance prescribing.
6. APRN Compact (Interstate Commission of APRN Compact): In addition to the NLC for RNs, Delaware has also enacted the APRN Compact. Once implemented, this will allow APRNs to hold one multistate license to practice in other compact member states, a major benefit for telehealth and career mobility.
7. The Delaware Nurse Practice Act: This is the single most important legal document for every nurse in the state. It defines the legal scope of practice for LPNs, RNs, and APRNs, and outlines the rules for delegation and professional conduct. All nurses are responsible for knowing and adhering to its contents.
8. Delaware Nurses Association (DNA): The DNA is the state's premier professional organization. Membership provides strong legislative advocacy (on issues like workplace violence and staffing), as well as member-only discounts on liability insurance, CE, and other professional services.
9. State Nursing Scholarship & Loan Programs: Beyond the SLRP, Delaware offers financial aid for nursing students. These include the Delaware Nursing Incentive Scholarship Program and the Delaware Health Force Financial Aid Loan Program, which provide funds to residents pursuing a healthcare education.
10. Professional Liability Insurance: While many employers provide malpractice coverage, nurses are strongly encouraged to carry their own individual liability insurance policy. This provides personal protection for their license and assets in the event of a lawsuit or board complaint.

It is critical to contact the Delaware Board of Nursing for all official information on licensure, scope of practice, and continuing education. Professional associations like the DNA are the primary resource for advocacy, networking, and career development.

Delaware Board of Nursing 

Contact Information:

Address:
Cannon Building, Suite 203 
861 Silver Lake Blvd. 
Dover, DE 19904

Phone: 1-302-744-4500

Return to the WeSalute State Nurses Benefits Guide