The Texas Board of Nursing convened on April 18, 2024, to discuss key updates from the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN) during its quarterly meeting. The session featured a report from Bridal Majewski, the program director, who highlighted significant trends in nurse referrals and participation.

Majewski reported a decrease in overall referrals to the program, with 131 nurses referred in the second quarter of 2024, down from 171 in the previous quarter. However, there was a notable increase in the number of nurses who signed participation agreements, rising from 35 to 63. This indicates a growing willingness among nurses to engage with the program, which aims to support those facing challenges related to substance use and mental health.

The total number of nurses enrolled in the TPAPN remained stable, with a slight increase from 612 to 613. Importantly, the number of nurses actively employed in nursing roles who are part of the program rose from 285 to 311. This reflects the program's ongoing efforts to help nurses maintain safe practice and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use issues.

Majewski emphasized the program's commitment to strategic planning and collaboration with healthcare facilities to educate them about TPAPN's role and benefits. The board expressed appreciation for the program's work and its impact on the nursing community in Texas.

The meeting underscored the importance of supporting nurses in their professional journeys and highlighted the TPAPN's role in fostering a healthier work environment for nursing professionals across the state.