Did you know that accurate and thorough documentation of vital signs is crucial for monitoring and ensuring patient well-being in healthcare? However, have you ever wondered what happens when healthcare professionals fall short of these standards, potentially impacting the completeness of patient records? In such situations, considering the guidance of a nurse attorney is likely beneficial. They can help you protect your license without compromising your livelihood. Together let us dive into the incident described below that happened at a hospital in Garland, Texas.
On or about January 26, 2022, while employed as an LVN at a hospital in Garland, Texas, LVN did not document complete vital signs, including urine output, throughout her shift for her assigned patient. Specifically, LVN did not document the patient’s complete vital signs and only documented that the patient had fifty (50) milliliters of urine output throughout her entire shift.
The LVN responded to the above incident and said that during the alleged delay in documentation, the patient became unstable and the LVN had to stop charting. LVN claimed that she was monitoring vital signs and urine output throughout her shift but entered them after her shift was over. She could not document vital signs due to the patient’s deteriorating status. Furthermore, the LVN stated that the blood pressure was stable, and the patient was not on any vasopressors. LVN stated that after 1100, she was not able to obtain a blood pressure reading. There was no order for a Foley catheter so she could not monitor the continuous trend. She also added that she routinely discussed urine output during morning rounds with the physicians. LVN gave reports and communicated the patient’s needs to the oncoming nurse, as expected, in furtherance of the continuity of care. Additionally, the LVN stated physicians were informed and were aware of the patient’s condition. All these responses were given by LVN without consulting first with an experienced nurse attorney to handle her case.
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).
A complaint was filed against her with the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). This allegation was considered serious, as it directly impacted the LVN’s ability to fulfill essential job functions and responsibilities. Unfortunately, her nursing defense attorney failed to defend her rights and interests before the Board, and she was found guilty of the alleged offense. As a result, her Registered Nurse (RN) license was put under disciplinary action, which means she may face suspension or revocation. This situation is unfortunate as it could affect her ability to perform her duties as a nurse in the future. Healthcare professionals need to be aware of the impact of disciplinary actions on their licenses and take proactive measures to protect them.
If you also received a letter from the Texas Board of Nursing regarding a case or complaint filed against you, you should hire a nurse attorney immediately before it’s too late. Texas Nurse Attorney Yong J. An is a committed nurse attorney who has been instrumental in representing over 600 nurse cases in the last 18 years. His dedication and expertise have been invaluable in providing legal support and representation for nurses facing various challenges in their careers.
You may contact him 24/7 at (832) 428-5679 for more information or if you want to schedule a private consultation.