TNA History
The formation of TNA in 1905 began with the drive to develop and pass a law to regulate nursing practice. The first bill was introduced in 1907 but was defeated. In 1909, a second attempt was made to pass a bill and it was once again defeated. But, on February 14, 1911, after much tenacious lobbying by TNA members across Tennessee, the first nurse practice act became law.
Today, the nurse practice act regulates nursing and protects the public from unsafe nursing practice. The law includes a clear definition of professional nursing practice and necessary educational qualifications a registered nurse must have in order to practice. It also outlines the criteria schools of nursing must meet in order to gain approval by the Board of Nursing to educate registered nurses. TNA continually updates the nurse practice act to reflect the changing role of the registered nurse.
Representation
TNA is governed by a Board of Directors and a House of Delegates elected by members of its 11 local districts. All district presidents serve on the Board, along with five officers. TNA is a constituent of the American Nurses Association (ANA) which represents the nationls 2.7 million RNs. TNA is represented in the ANA House of Delegates by delegates elected by the TNA membership biennially.
The Strength of Nursing
More than a decade of research demonstrates that when there are more registered nurses working in hospitals, there are lower mortality rates, shorter lengths of stay, fewer complications, and even lower costs.
TNA will continue to work for professional nurses to help ensure that consumers receive quality, cost-effective health care and that nursing continues to speak with one strong voice.
