A description of Florida's mandatory continuing education system

The Florida Board of Nursing feels that consumer health and welfare are influenced by the ability of nurses to offer safe care. Board members advocate the theory that currency in nursing practice is enhanced by continuous updating of knowledge and skills. To this end, the Board requires 24 contact hours of approved continuing education every two years as a license renewal condition for Florida's nurses. This article reflects a description of this system as it was in place in 1986. In-depth evaluation of the extensive continuing education database compiled since 1979 has enabled the Board to identify strengths and weaknesses of the system. As a result, modification and refinement of certain elements currently are underway.