What is the requirement for supervision of nurse practitioners by physicians in Texas?

In Texas, the requirement for supervision of nurse practitioners by physicians emphasizes the need for "adequate supervision" and availability for consultation. This means that while nurse practitioners practice independently to a certain extent, they still operate under the oversight of a physician who must be accessible for guidance and support in the clinical environment. This supervisory relationship ensures that physician oversight is present, promoting patient safety and the effective delivery of healthcare services.

The regulation aims to balance the independence of nurse practitioners with the necessary medical oversight to maintain high standards of care. Adequate supervision involves ongoing communication and collaboration, allowing nurse practitioners to seek advice as needed for complex cases or when specific clinical decisions arise.

In Texas, there is no established requirement for documentation of supervision on an annual basis, nor is there a limitation that requires supervision only during business hours. Additionally, while supervision is mandated, it does not mean that the physician must be present at all times, thereby allowing for some autonomy in the nurse practitioner’s practice while ensuring that support is readily available.