Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 640E - Dietetics
✅ Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 640E – Dietetics
1. Overview and Purpose
NAC Chapter 640E regulates the practice of dietetics in Nevada. It implements provisions under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 640E, which governs licensed dietitians and nutritionists in the state.
The primary purpose of NAC 640E is to:
Establish standards for the licensing and regulation of dietitians and nutritionists.
Protect the public by ensuring that only qualified individuals provide nutritional counseling and dietetic services.
Define the scope of practice, professional conduct, and requirements for maintaining licensure.
The Chapter is administered by the Nevada Board of Dietetics, which is responsible for licensing, rulemaking, investigations, and disciplinary actions.
2. Scope and Applicability
NAC 640E applies to individuals practicing dietetics and nutrition who wish to provide these services legally in Nevada.
It governs licensing requirements, renewal procedures, practice standards, and disciplinary measures.
Applies to both registered dietitians (RDs) and other licensed nutrition professionals operating under the dietetics license.
3. Key Provisions
a) Licensing Requirements
Applicants must meet educational requirements, typically a bachelor’s degree or higher in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field.
Completion of an approved supervised practice program or equivalent experience.
Passing a recognized national examination (e.g., the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam).
Submission of an application with required fees, proof of education, supervised practice, and exam results.
b) Scope of Practice
Licensed dietitians may provide:
Nutritional assessment and counseling
Medical nutrition therapy
Development of dietary plans to manage medical conditions
Public health nutrition education
Must practice within professional standards and ethical guidelines.
c) Professional Conduct and Ethics
Licensees must adhere to standards of confidentiality, informed consent, and professional behavior.
Prohibited from engaging in fraudulent practices or misleading advertising.
Required to maintain competence through continuing education.
d) Continuing Education and Renewal
License renewal is required periodically (usually every two years).
Licensees must complete a specified number of continuing education hours approved by the Board.
Failure to renew or meet education requirements may lead to license suspension or revocation.
e) Disciplinary Procedures
The Board may investigate complaints regarding:
Unprofessional conduct
Negligence or incompetence
Violation of laws or regulations
Disciplinary actions include reprimand, fines, suspension, or revocation of license.
f) Advertising and Representation
Licensees must accurately represent their qualifications.
Misrepresentation of credentials or scope of practice is prohibited.
4. Relevant Case Law and Legal Principles
There are limited Nevada appellate cases specifically citing NAC 640E. However, broader legal principles regarding professional licensing and administrative agency authority apply.
📌 General Principle: Licensing Board’s Authority
Courts generally defer to the professional licensing board’s expertise in defining standards of practice and disciplining licensees.
The Board’s decisions are subject to review under administrative law standards, including fairness, due process, and reasonableness.
📌 Case Principle: Due Process in Disciplinary Actions
Licensees must receive notice and an opportunity to be heard before suspension or revocation.
Boards must base decisions on substantial evidence.
📌 Case Principle: Scope of Practice
Licensing statutes and regulations define the scope of practice.
Courts uphold prohibitions on unlicensed practice to protect public health and safety.
Example: Unauthorized practice claims against non-licensed individuals providing dietetic services are supported by courts enforcing NAC 640E and NRS 640E.
5. Practical Implications
| Stakeholder | Responsibilities / Impact |
|---|---|
| Licensed Dietitians | Must meet licensure requirements and maintain standards of practice. |
| Consumers/Patients | Protected by licensure laws ensuring qualified practitioners. |
| Nevada Board of Dietetics | Responsible for licensing, enforcement, and discipline. |
| Employers | Must verify licenses of dietitians and ensure compliance. |
6. Summary
NAC Chapter 640E provides a framework ensuring that dietitians and nutritionists in Nevada are properly qualified and regulated. It:
Sets clear licensing standards for entry into the profession.
Defines the scope of practice and professional responsibilities.
Establishes mechanisms for enforcement and discipline.
Protects the public by promoting competent and ethical nutritional care.
Nevada courts support the Board’s regulatory role and enforce provisions against unlicensed or unethical practice, consistent with administrative law principles.
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