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Inside Washington’s registered nurse PTSD law

A new Washington law may make it easier for qualifying registered nurses with work-related PTSD to access workers’ compensation benefits, but eligibility depends on specific job, diagnosis, and documentation requirements.
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Registered nurses in Washington state who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may now have improved access to workers’ compensation benefits and mental health care under Washington Senate Bill 5454, which took effect in January 2024.

This article provides an overview of the eligibility criteria and claim process associated with the law, including how presumptive eligibility may apply to direct-care registered nurses who develop PTSD after at least ninety consecutive days of fully compensated employment in Washington. Topics reviewed include eligibility, clinical documentation requirements, and claim evaluation.

This activity is intended to help nurses understand potential eligibility outcomes and navigate the claims process more effectively. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) is the state agency responsible for interpreting and administering this law. Direct questions to L&I at (800) 547-8367.

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PTSD Presumptive Eligibility
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Documentation matters

One reason PTSD claims are delayed is lack of detail rather than lack of exposure. Statements such as “high stress environment” or “frequent trauma exposure” may not fully explain how symptoms developed in relation to specific workplace events.

Helpful documentation may include:

  • descriptions of specific traumatic incidents,
  • approximate dates or shifts,
  • incident or workplace violence reports,
  • treatment records,
  • and information connecting symptoms to work experiences.

Examples of relevant events may include a failed resuscitation involving patient death, repeated exposure to severe trauma cases, or a workplace violence incident resulting in injury or medical treatment.

Each claim is reviewed individually by L&I.

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Questions?

Nurses with questions about workers’ compensation claims, documentation requirements, or claim status may contact the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Office of Information & Assistance at 1-800-547-8367 (1-800-LISTENS). L&I can provide general information regarding claim processes, required documentation, and available resources.

This article is intended for general educational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice.