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What does the NY Nursing Board consider professional misconduct?

Nurses can lose their license for a number of reasons. One example involves allegations of professional misconduct.

Examples of professional misconduct include the following:

  • Conviction of a crime, under New York state or federal law.
  • Allowing an unlicensed person to conduct duties that require a nursing license.
  • Intentionally failing to notify the New York State Education Department of a change in name or mailing address.

These may seem like egregious violations, but they can happen to anyone.

A dose of reality: What the examples really mean

The crime example could include a conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol or even less severe crimes. In a recent case, a nurse was accused of petty theft. This type of crime can include taking property of relatively small value or even writing a bad check. In this case, the nurse’s license was suspended for 6 months after the state of New York convicted her for a Class A misdemeanor, Petit Larceny. She also had to pay a $500 fine and face two years of probation.

In another example, the hustle and bustle of the day can lead a nurse to let a trusted, experienced and competent co-worker complete a certain task. Although this may seem more efficient, it is important to avoid this temptation if the task requires a nursing degree. When it comes to work duties, having an aid or assistant complete tasks that are technically those that require a nursing license can come with serious repercussions.

Even honest mistakes, like speaking with another nurse about the care of a patient while in the hospital cafeteria, could result in allegations of professional misconduct. Those who face such allegations are wise to act to protect their interests. An attorney experienced in nursing license issues can review the allegations and discuss your options.