For any nurse, the thought of a suspended or revoked license can be one of their worst nightmares. They stand to lose their source of income, the career they worked hard for and often their reputation. It is a stressful time, to say the least. However, it is not a hopeless situation, and there are things you can do to mitigate the stress you are going through.
Here are steps you can take if you find yourself in such a situation:
- Write down as much as possible about the events that took place for which you are under investigation.
- Seek the help of someone with knowledge about state licensing of nurses and the investigation process and potential consequences, including reprimand, suspension and revocation.
- Seek the help of someone who thoroughly understands the legal repercussions, if any, of misconduct in the field of nursing.
- Ask yourself what the worst-case scenario is in your case. Sometimes understanding what that is can be enough to calm your fears.
- Ask about what happens if the board finds that you have committed misconduct. Is there a way to reinstate your nursing license?
- Remember to take care of yourself. At this time, whether you were sent home on leave from your place of work, not actively working, or still working while your case is investigated, make sure that you make time for yourself and your mental and physical health.
Finding out that you are at risk of consequences for misconduct is a scary time for any nurse or medical professional, but you are not alone. A reprimand, license suspension or revocation (or the risk of either) is enough to make you feel alone and like the entire world is against you.
Remember that feelings are not necessarily the way things are and that with strength, appropriate counsel and persistence, you can face whatever comes your way.
Please note: Attorney John Rivas is responsible for this communication