RN Neglects Continuous Observation for High-Risk Suicide Patient

RN Neglects Continuous Observation for High-Risk Suicide Patient

We are all aware that the healthcare industry is highly demanding, and registered nurses (RNs) play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients, particularly those who are identified as high-risk. In situations where nurses face allegations or scrutiny regarding their actions, it becomes crucial to engage the services of a nurse attorney. The nurse defense attorney can assist by conducting a thorough investigation of the circumstances, gathering evidence, and comprehending the intricacies of policies and procedures at the healthcare facility. This is especially relevant in cases where there is an incident in question, as a nurse attorney can make all the difference in ensuring a favorable outcome

Incident: Neglecting Continuous Observation for High-Risk Suicide Patient

At the time of the incident, he was employed as an RN at a healthcare facility in Midland, Texas, and had been in that position for five (5) months.

On or about February 1, 2021, while employed as an RN at a healthcare facility in Midland, Texas, the RN failed to provide 1:1 and continuous observation for the patient who was assessed as being at high risk for suicide. Instead, the RN turned his back, chatted with security, went into other patients' rooms, and left the patient unattended. RN's conduct exposed the patient unnecessarily to a risk of harm in that significant changes in the patient's status may have gone undetected and prevented a timely intervention.

The RN responded without seeking assistance from a qualified nurse attorney. He explained that he was the primary nurse rendering care to the patient, and interventions were implemented to ensure patient safety. The RN stated that the patient was placed in the most observable room in the ER where direct sight of the patient could be seen by all practitioners.  The RN and security assisted the patient with gowning and ensured the environment was cleared. Additionally, the RN further mentioned that the patient remained free of harm, and at no point was the patient left unobservable. RN stated that when the report notes that he was in and out of other patients' rooms, turning his back and chatting, he can reasonably say that he was delegating and conducting vital communication with his team. The RN conclusively stated that he did not feel that the patient's safety was compromised, and the outcome was that the patient remained free from harm.

The above action constitutes grounds for disciplinary action following Section 301.452(b)(10)&(13) Texas Occupations Code and is a violation of 22 TEX ADMIN. CODE §217.11 (1)(A),(1)(B)&(1)(M) and 22 TEX. ADMIN. CODE §217.12 (1)(A), (1)(B)&(4).

Unfortunately, he did not seek help from a nurse attorney, who could have assisted him with his legal defense. As a result, the Texas Board of Nursing decided to take disciplinary action against his RN license. Had he consulted with a Texas nurse attorney, he may have had a better chance of winning his case, as they would have provided him with expert advice and guidance throughout the legal process. In the end, his failure to seek legal consultation cost him his RN license and his career as a nurse.

Seek Legal Advice from an Experienced Texas Nurse Lawyer Today!

If you encounter a complaint from the Board, now is the time to seek the assistance of a nursing license defense attorney. Texas Nurse Attorney Yong J. An is willing to assist every nurse in need of immediate help for a nurse license case. You can reach him at (832)-428-5679 for a free legal consultation or for more inquiries.