Violations of the Nurse Practice Act (NPA)
The right to practice nursing is regulated by state law, and in Texas, this is governed by the Texas Nursing Practice Act (NPA). This legislation ensures that nursing care is delivered safely and competently. While similar acts exist in other states, they each establish licensure requirements, standards of practice, and disciplinary measures.
Violations of the NPA can lead to serious consequences for nurses, including fines, probation, or even license revocation. Texas Nurse Lawyers offers expert legal support to assist nurses in navigating these challenges and protecting their professional credentials.
Understanding Violations of the Nurse Practice Act (NPA)
The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) enforces the Nurse Practice Act (NPA). The board investigates complaints and takes disciplinary action where necessary. In Texas, BON has the power to develop practice standards, grant and renew licenses, and write rules and policies for nursing. The board also disciplines nurses for NPA violations, which include:
- Substance abuse issues.
- Errors in nursing practice.
- Criminal arrests.
- Fraud, deceit, or dishonesty.
- Violation of professional boundaries.
- Abandonment, abuse, unprofessional conduct, and other nursing malpractices.
Conduct that constitutes violations of the NPA includes behavior that exposes patients and other individuals to unnecessary risks. Failing to adequately care for patients may be grounds for discipline. BON imposes various disciplinary sanctions, including reprimands, probation, fines, license suspension, and license revocation. The penalty is based on the severity of the violation.
How a Nurse Defense Attorney Can Address NPA Violations
Nursing is a highly regulated profession, and nurses in Texas face potential disciplinary actions not only from their employers but also from the Board of Nursing (BON). If the BON is investigating you for violations of the Nursing Practice Act (NPA), you risk losing your license, damaging your career, and harming your reputation.
It is crucial to take these matters seriously and seek legal representation. Addressing the issue promptly and effectively can help you avoid long-term consequences. A skilled nurse defense attorney can vigorously advocate for you, working to protect your license and preserve your professional standing.
Having a trained and qualified attorney assisting you can make all the difference. If you were involved in a criminal issue, you need to seek legal advice on how to proceed. An attorney familiar with criminal law and nursing licensing rules can provide valuable guidance depending on your specific circumstances. You will need to report arrests and charges during license renewal, whether or not they resulted in a conviction. Failure to disclose charges to BON can result in additional disciplinary action.
Why Choose Texas Nurse Lawyers?
When you choose Texas Nurse Lawyers, you get dedication, commitment, expertise, and confidentiality. Our founder, Yong J. An, has represented over hundreds of nurses before the Texas Board of Nursing. He has a statewide legal practice dedicated to defending nurses in Texas.
We have represented over 600 Texas nurses, giving us deep expertise in nurse license disciplinary actions. Currently, we represent over 180 ongoing cases, with representation periods of 1 to 3 years or more. Our extensive experience and proven track record ensure that your case receives expert and dedicated support.
If you have inquiries about Violations of the Nurse Practice Act (NPA), feel free to contact us today.