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

Nebraska's highlights for nursing professionals include its membership in the Nurse Licensure Compact, a defined "transition-to-practice" pathway for APRN independence, and substantial state-funded scholarships for nursing students. Here's the full WeSalute ranking for the top ten professional resources and benefits for nurses in Nebraska:

1. Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) Membership: Nebraska 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.
2. Transition to Independent Practice (APRNs): Nebraska offers a clear pathway to autonomy. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) must practice under a transition-to-practice agreement with a supervising provider for their first 2,000 hours. Once completed, they are granted full independent practice authority without the need for a collaborative agreement.
3. Nebraska Loan Repayment Programs: The state offers high-value financial incentives through the Nebraska Loan Repayment Program for Rural Health Professionals. This provides matching funds (up to $60,000 per year for certain providers) to nurses who commit to practicing in a state-designated shortage area.
4. First Renewal CE Exemption: A significant benefit for new nurses: If you were licensed by examination within the past 24 months and are renewing your license for the first time, you are exempt from the 20-hour continuing education requirement.
5. Manageable Continuing Education (CE): For standard renewal, the requirements are straightforward. RNs and LPNs must complete 20 contact hours of CE every two years. Importantly, all 20 hours can be completed via home study or internet courses, providing maximum flexibility.
6. Nebraska Center for Nursing: This state-funded body is a critical resource for the profession. It administers the Nursing Faculty Student Loan Program, collects essential workforce data to address shortages, and provides a central hub for nursing education resources in the state.
7. Nebraska Nurses Association (NNA): The NNA is the state's premier professional organization. Membership is a joint membership with the American Nurses Association (ANA), providing strong legislative advocacy (crucial for maintaining APRN independence), networking, and discounts on ANCC certification.
8. Mandatory Opioid Training (APRNs): To address public health needs, APRNs with prescriptive authority must complete 3 contact hours of CE related to prescribing opiates every renewal period. This includes 0.5 hours specifically on the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP).
9. The Nebraska 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 specific rules for the transition-to-practice period.
10. Professional Liability Insurance: While many employers provide malpractice coverage, nurses—especially APRNs transitioning to independent practice—are strongly encouraged to carry their own individual liability insurance policy for personal protection of their license and assets.

It is critical to contact the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for all official information on licensure, scope of practice, and continuing education. Professional associations like the NNA are the primary resource for advocacy, networking, and career development.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

(Licensure Unit)

Address: 
301 Centennial Mall 
South Lincoln, NE 68509

Phone: 1-402-471-4376

Return to the WeSalute State Nurses Benefits Guide