RNs are the unsung heroes of the healthcare system, delivering crucial care and support to patients daily. But what happens when an RN faces serious allegations, like unauthorized administration and documentation failures? These charges can shake the very foundation of their professional life, potentially endangering patient safety and tarnishing their reputation. In these high-stakes situations, a nursing license attorney is not just helpful—they’re essential. Their deep understanding of the nursing disciplinary proceedings provides indispensable guidance and protection when needed.
Uncovering the Alleged Incident
While employed as an RN at a medical facility in McAllen, Texas, an RN inappropriately administered a 4mg bolus of intravenous Versed to a patient, who was not under his care/not his assigned patient, without verifying physician orders. There was no physician order for a bolus of medication. Additionally, RN increased the continuous rate of infusion of the medication from 3 ml/hr. to 5 ml/hr., after the last increase was made two minutes prior, exceeding both the approved amount and timing of the titration parameters, Additionally, RN failed to document regarding the medication administration in the patient’s medical record. RN’s conduct resulted in an incomplete medical record, and exposed the patient to a risk of harm in that failure to administer sedating medications as ordered by the physician could have resulted in non-efficacious treatment of the patient’s condition. In such cases, it is crucial for the RN to seek the assistance of a Texas nurse attorney.
RN’s Side of the Story
In response, the RN stated that he had unintentionally administered a bolus of Versed to an intubated and sedated patient who was under the care of a novice nurse. The patient was rousing from sedation and was attempting to remove his endotracheal tube. Additionally, the RN mentioned that usually, the physician’s order needed dose of Versed along with the titratable continuous infusion, and in this instance, RN believed that an order had been put in. He programmed the pump to deliver a bolus to help sedate the patient and prevent him from extubating himself, and once the patient was adequately sedated, the RN left the room and returned to his own patients. He genuinely believed he had an order for as needed Versed and did what he thought any of his colleagues would have done. RN also mentioned that it is his understanding that the patient did not suffer any harm from his action. RN added that it is not a habit of him to administer medication without physician orders or protocols.
In his defense, the RN presented various mitigating factors. Unfortunately, despite his rationale and the difficult situation he encountered, the Texas Board of Nursing opted to impose disciplinary action on his RN license.
The Essential Role of Nurse Attorneys
Reflecting on this situation, it becomes clear that having the support from a nurse attorney could have significantly strengthen the RN’s defense.
Texas Nurse Attorney Yong J. An, who brings over 18 years of experience and has successfully represented more than 600 nurses before the Texas Board of Nursing, could have offered critical legal guidance and advocacy.
For nurses confronted with Board complaints, seeking legal counsel from a reputable nurse attorney is not merely wise—it’s vital. Nurse Attorney Yong J. An is available to provide immediate assistance for nurse licensing matters.
To ensure the protection of your nursing license and professional reputation, contact him at (832)-428-5679 for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward securing your future.