It depends on several factors, including the nature of the accusation. Nurses form an essential part of society and medical staff, and an accusation of misconduct can come as a very unpleasant surprise, and it can cause great harm.
Who can file a complaint against a nurse?
Anyone, including patients, co-workers and other staff can file a complaint against a nurse. A member of the public can also submit a claim against them. Remember that the Board evaluates the claim’s veracity and determines whether it moves forward with the claim.
What happens after a complaint is filed?
The Board of Nursing evaluates the claim’s veracity and determines its merit. If it does not have merit the Board does not continue its investigation.
If the claim has merit, an investigation begins, a notification is sent to the nurse communicating to them that there has been a complaint filed against them and that an investigation is underway.
What determines whether a nurse can continue working?
Whether the nurse will be allowed to continue working will depend on several factors, including the nature of the misconduct, the severity of the offense, the type of claim and the decision of the Board, which is based on state law and board regulations.
An accusation of misconduct and the process of investigation and decision-making by the Board is difficult for anyone. Nurses must understand their rights and how to respond to any accusation made against them properly.
NOTE: Attorney John Rivas is responsible for this communication