Ensuring precise and responsible management of medications is a of nursing practice, crucial for maintaining patient safety and well-being. However, instances may arise where nurses face allegations related to medication handling, such as improper waste procedures. In these challenging situations, nurse attorneys serve as crucial advocates and advisors for nurses facing legal concerns. A nurse attorney possesses specialized knowledge of healthcare laws and regulations, allowing them to navigate the intricacies of legal processes. In the case of medication-related allegations, a nurse attorney plays a pivotal role in thoroughly evaluating the incident.
Incident: Failure to Properly Dispose of Partial Medication Dose
At the time of the incident, she was employed as an RN at a medical facility in Pearland, Texas, and had been in that position for six (6) years and three (3) months.
On or about October 3, 2021, while employed as an RN at a medical facility in Pearland, Texas, the RN removed a prescription painkiller 2mg/2ml syringe at 1932 from the Omnicell medication dispensing system for a patient but failed to waste the partial dose of the syringe (1.36mg). Consequently, the RN’s conduct left medications unaccounted for was likely to deceive the hospital pharmacy and placed the hospital in violation of Chapter 481 (Controlled Substances Act) of the Texas Health and Safety Code.
In response to the above incident, the RN stated she did count with the witnessing nurse and wasted the prescription painkiller from the pre-filled syringe so that it was at the ordered dose with that same nurse.
The above action constitutes grounds for disciplinary action in accordance with Section 301.452(b)(10)&(14) Texas Occupations Code and is a violation of 22 TEX ADMIN. CODE §217.11(1)(A)&(1)(B) and 22 TEX. ADMIN. CODE §217.12 (1)(A),(1)(B), (4),(10)(C)&(11)(B).
Because of this, the RN was summoned by the Texas Board of Nursing to defend her side, but the RN failed to hire a nurse attorney to help her with her case and without proper defense, the Texas Board of Nursing then decided to place her RN license under disciplinary action.
If you also received a letter of complaint filed against you from the Texas Board of Nursing (BON), you should hire a nurse defense attorney immediately before it’s too late. Equip yourself with the knowledge and expertise you need for a favorable outcome by consulting a knowledgeable and experienced Texas nurse attorney. Texas Nurse Attorney Yong J. An Contact the Law Office of Yong J. An 24/7 through text or call at (832) 428-5679 for a confidential consultation regarding any accusations from the Texas BON.