Rhode Island § 23-17-63 - Licensing of Healthcare Facilities
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 23-17-63 — Licensing of Healthcare Facilities, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23-17-63. Licensing of Healthcare Facilities
R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-17-63
§ 23-17-63. Patient safety — Circulating nurses required in operating rooms.
(a) The following definitions apply in this section:
(1) “Circulating nurse” means registered nurse licensed to practice in the state of Rhode Island who is educated and trained in perioperative nursing.
(2) “Perioperative nursing” means specialized area of nursing practice that involves the planning, coordination, delivery, and evaluation of nursing care to patients whose protective reflexes or self-care abilities are potentially compromised during surgical procedures.
(b) In order to enhance patient safety and protection, each hospital and freestanding ambulatory surgical facility licensed in the state of Rhode Island shall adopt policies and procedures to have a minimum of one circulating nurse physically present in each operating room for the duration of each surgical procedure to:
(1) Coordinate the nursing care and safety needs of patients in the operating room; and
(2) Support the surgical team as appropriate during surgery.
(c) The department of health shall not issue or renew a license unless the applicant is in compliance with this section.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 487, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 492, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 23-17-63
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 23-17-63 cover?
Section 23-17-63 ("Licensing of Healthcare Facilities") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 23-17-63?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 23-17-63" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 23-17-63 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.