As healthcare professionals, RNs bear significant responsibility for accurately administering medications and maintaining precise documentation to ensure patient safety and well-being. However, there are times when an RN’s actions may not meet the expected standards, potentially jeopardizing patient care and raising concerns about professional conduct. In such distressing situations, RNs can greatly benefit from the expertise and support of a nurse licensing attorney. A nurse licensing attorney can guide the RN through investigations or disciplinary actions, provide advice on handling these situations, and ensure the RN’s interests are protected throughout the legal process.
At the time of the incident, he was employed as an RN at a hospital in Pharr, Texas, and had been in that position for four (4) months.
On or about May 4, 2022, through May 5, 2022, while employed as an RN at a hospital in Pharr, Texas, RN failed to complete two-hour rounds and failed to ensure fifteen (15) minute checks were performed on a patient, per protocol; instead, RN falsely documented that all rounds/checks were completed. Subsequently, the patient died by suicide while under RNs supervision at 3:15 a.m. Additionally, RN admitted that rounds/checks were not done after video surveillance revealed the same. RN’s conduct created an inaccurate medical record and failure to conduct two-hour rounds, and fifteen (15) minute checks as ordered by the physician could have contributed to the patient’s subsequent demise.
RN’s Defense
Without consulting an expert nurse licensing attorney, RN responded to the allegations and mentioned that there were several mitigating factors that led to this event including staffing issues. RN also added that he had three (3) Mental Health Technicians with one being an orientee, and one who was off the unit on break for a time prior to the event. He was the only nurse for more than half of his shift. The nurses who were asked to cover medications were told they didn’t have to stay the whole shift, and there was no help on the other unit to come to his aide with PRN medications, help with calling the doctor, or help with patient behaviors. The census that night, on the adult unit, was 22 patients with several acutely psychotic patients of high levels of acuity. After the incident, he stayed and talked to the police that came to investigate the suicide and filled out all his paperwork for the rest of the shift. It was in that moment of frustration and disbelief that he incorrectly filled out his Nursing Rounds sheet. Thus, it was not his intention to falsify any documentation to take fault away from anyone on duty, or just plain lie.
Despite his explanations, the RN faced disciplinary action from the Texas Board of Nursing. If he had sought the assistance of a nurse attorney, the outcome could have been different.
Choose Wisely. Safeguard Your Nursing Journey
To protect your own license in similar situations, taking proactive measures is essential—failing to address allegations before the Board can jeopardize your career. It is vital to seek guidance from a nurse licensing attorney, especially if you believe you have been unjustly accused.
For a confidential consultation and expert defense tailored to your specific case, reach out to Nurse Attorney Yong J. An. With a proven track record since 2006, he has successfully defended more than 600 RNs and LVNs on cases filed against them. Start safeguarding your license today by calling (832) 428-5679 for more information.