32-1636. Use of titles or abbreviations

A. Only a person who holds a valid and current license to practice registered nursing in this state or in a party state pursuant to section 32-1668 may use the title " nurse" , " registered nurse" , " graduate nurse" or " professional nurse" or the abbreviation " R.N." .

B. Only a person who holds a valid and current license to practice practical nursing in this state or in a party state as defined in section 32-1668 may use the title " nurse" , " licensed practical nurse" or " practical nurse" or the abbreviation " L.P.N." .

C. Only a person who holds a valid and current certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to practice as a registered nurse practitioner in this state may use the title " nurse practitioner" , " registered nurse practitioner" or " nurse midwife" , if applicable, or use any words or letters to indicate the person is a registered nurse practitioner. A person who is certified as a registered nurse practitioner shall indicate by title or initials the specialty area of certification.

D. Except as provided in subsection C of this section, only a person who holds a valid and current certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to practice as a certified nurse midwife in this state may use the title " certified nurse midwife" or " nurse midwife" or use any words or letters to indicate the person is a certified nurse midwife.

E. Only a person who holds a valid and current certificate issued pursuant to this chapter to practice as a clinical nurse specialist may use the title " clinical nurse specialist" or use any words or letters to indicate the person is a clinical nurse specialist. A person who is certified as a clinical nurse specialist shall indicate by title or initials the specialty area of certification.

F. A nurse who is granted retirement status shall not practice nursing but may use the title " registered nurse-retired" or " RN-retired" or " licensed practical nurse-retired" or " LPN-retired" , as applicable.