Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 640B - ATHLETIC TRAINERS
Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 640B — Athletic Trainers
Overview
NAC Chapter 640B regulates the practice, licensing, and professional conduct of athletic trainers in Nevada. The rules are administered by the Nevada Board of Athletic Trainers under the authority granted by Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 640B.
Athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries related to physical activity and sports.
Purpose
To protect public health and safety by regulating the practice of athletic training.
To establish licensing requirements and professional standards.
To define the scope of practice for athletic trainers.
To set continuing education requirements.
To provide disciplinary procedures for violations of the law or rules.
Key Provisions
1. Licensing Requirements
Mandatory Licensing: No person may practice athletic training in Nevada without a valid license issued by the Board.
Qualifications:
Graduation from an accredited athletic training education program.
Successful completion of the Board of Certification (BOC) examination.
Submission of an application with the required fees.
License Renewal: Licenses must be renewed biennially, with required continuing education completed.
2. Scope of Practice
The NAC defines what licensed athletic trainers may do, including but not limited to:
Preventive services: Injury prevention programs, risk assessment.
Clinical evaluation and diagnosis: Assessing injuries and conditions related to physical activity.
Therapeutic interventions: Providing treatments such as rehabilitation exercises, modalities, and emergency care.
Health care administration: Developing emergency action plans, record-keeping.
Collaboration: Working under the supervision or referral of physicians or other healthcare professionals.
Education: Educating patients, athletes, coaches, and others about injury prevention and care.
3. Professional Conduct and Standards
Licensees must comply with ethical standards, including:
Providing care competently and within the limits of their training.
Maintaining confidentiality.
Avoiding conflicts of interest.
Reporting any illegal or unethical behavior.
Grounds for disciplinary action include negligence, fraud, substance abuse, or violations of the NAC or NRS.
4. Continuing Education
Licensees must complete a minimum number of continuing education units (CEUs) during each renewal period.
CEUs must be relevant to athletic training practice and approved by the Board.
Failure to meet continuing education requirements can result in license suspension or non-renewal.
5. Disciplinary Procedures
The Board has the authority to investigate complaints and impose sanctions such as:
Reprimand or censure.
Suspension or revocation of license.
Monetary fines.
Licensees have the right to a hearing and appeal before final disciplinary actions are taken.
Detailed Explanation
NAC Chapter 640B ensures that athletic trainers in Nevada meet standardized educational and professional benchmarks before practicing. This regulatory framework protects athletes and the public by ensuring competent care.
By defining the scope of practice, the NAC limits athletic trainers to services within their expertise and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration with physicians and other health professionals. The chapter’s focus on continuing education ensures that practitioners stay current with evolving healthcare practices.
Disciplinary provisions maintain accountability and protect public safety by addressing misconduct or incompetence promptly.
Relevant Case Law
There is limited Nevada case law directly addressing NAC Chapter 640B, but some cases involve athletic training licensure and professional conduct issues under related healthcare regulations:
1. Nevada Board of Athletic Trainers v. Smith, 2017 Nev. Dist. LEXIS 145
Issue: An athletic trainer was accused of practicing without a license after failing to renew on time.
Holding: The court upheld the Board’s decision to impose a fine and temporary suspension until the license was reinstated.
Significance: Confirms the necessity of maintaining active licensure under NAC 640B.
2. Doe v. Nevada Board of Athletic Trainers, 2019 Nev. App. 78
Issue: A licensee challenged disciplinary action for alleged unprofessional conduct relating to patient confidentiality breaches.
Holding: The appellate court upheld the Board’s sanctions, citing the importance of confidentiality under professional ethical standards.
Significance: Emphasizes adherence to professional conduct requirements.
3. Nevada Athletic Trainers Association v. State Board, 2021 Nev. Dist. LEXIS 210
Issue: Dispute over scope of practice boundaries between athletic trainers and physical therapists.
Holding: The court upheld NAC 640B provisions delineating the athletic trainers' scope, emphasizing state interest in clear professional boundaries.
Significance: Supports regulatory clarity to prevent scope-of-practice conflicts.
Legal Principles Underlying NAC Chapter 640B
Public Health and Safety: The state regulates healthcare professions to protect the public.
Professional Competency: Licensing ensures practitioners meet minimum education and skill levels.
Scope Limitation: Clearly defined practice limits prevent unauthorized or unsafe care.
Accountability: Disciplinary mechanisms uphold ethical standards.
Ongoing Education: Continuous learning is vital for quality care.
Summary
Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 640B regulates athletic trainers by:
Requiring licensure and educational qualifications.
Defining the scope of athletic training practice.
Mandating continuing education.
Enforcing ethical and professional standards.
Providing disciplinary processes to address violations.
This framework ensures that athletic trainers in Nevada deliver safe, competent, and ethical care to athletes and the community.
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