In healthcare scenarios, the precise administration of medications is vital to patient well-being. However, instances may arise, wherein LVNs might not follow these standards which can have a great impact on patient safety. In such situations, the guidance of a nurse attorney is indispensable for navigating legal and ethical complexities, ensuring adherence to protocols, and maintaining patient safety.
At the time of the incident, she was employed as an LVN at a hospital in Frisco, Texas, and had been in that position for five (5) months.
On or about December 8, 2021, while employed as an LVN at a hospital in Frisco, Texas, LVN did not administer Metoprolol 250 milligrams to a patient. Specifically, LVN collaborated with the physician and questioned the order due to the patient’s hemodynamic status and possible reaction to the medication and the physician reviewed the patient’s home medication and informed LVN that the order was correct. LVN only gave the patient 100 milligrams and held the other 150 milligrams despite the order and instructions from the physician.
In response to the above incident, the LVN stated she was honest in her reply regarding the administration of Metoprolol in a patient whose blood pressure was unstable and receiving numerous other blood pressure medications. The LVN notified the doctor of the half dose and blood pressure readings and the doctor agreed and amended the dose.
The above action constitutes grounds for disciplinary action in accordance with Section 301.452(b)(10)&(13) Texas Occupations Code, and is a violation of 22 TEX ADMIN. CODE §217.11(1)(A),(1)(C),(1)(D),(1)(M),(1)(P)&(3)(A) and 22 TEX. ADMIN. CODE §217.12 (1)(A),(1)(B),(1)(C)&(4).
The evidence against the LVN was strong. At the same time, without the help of a nurse defense attorney, she was not able to properly defend her case in court. As a result, her nursing license was placed under disciplinary action.
Avoid similar challenges from happening on your end. Make sure to find the right defense attorney in case a complaint will be filed against you before the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). For more details or for a legal consultation regarding accusations, it’s best to contact a seasoned Texas nurse attorney. Texas Nurse Attorney Yong J. An is an experienced nurse attorney who represented more than 600 cases for RNs and LVNs since 2006. You can call him directly at (832) 428-5679 to get started or to inquire for more information.