▪︎ Top 5 Reasons Nurses Are Disciplined by Boards of Nursing and Case Examples
#1. Unprofessional Conduct:
This broad category covers behaviors that violate ethical standards, including falsifying records, breaching patient confidentiality, or engaging in inappropriate relationships with patients.
Case Example: In 2022, a nurse in California was disciplined for falsifying patient records to cover up a medication error. The nurse documented administering a prescribed dose of insulin to a diabetic patient, but an investigation revealed the medication had not been given. This lapse led to the patient suffering from dangerously high blood sugar levels, requiring emergency intervention. The nurse later admitted to the falsification leading to a license suspension and mandatory ethics training.
#2. Substance Abuse/Use and Diversion:
Substance abuse among nurses, whether on or off duty, poses significant risks to patient safety and violates the standards of professional conduct
Case Example: In Indiana, a nurse working in a hospital’s surgical unit was caught diverting opioids for personal use. Co-workers noticed discrepancies in medication counts and reported suspicions. Security footage revealed the nurse pocketing vials of fentanyl intended for patients. During questioning, she admitted to struggling with addiction. The board required the nurse to complete a substance abuse rehabilitation program, imposed a two-year probationary period, and restricted access to controlled substances while under supervision.
#3. Gross Negligence or Incompetence:
Failing to meet the expected standard of care, whether through errors or a lack of competence, can result in severe disciplinary actions, particularly if it leads to patient harm.
Case Example: The high-profile case of RaDonda Vaught in Tennessee highlights the consequences of negligence. Vaught, a nurse at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, accidentally administered the paralyzing agent vecuronium instead of Versed, causing the death of a 75-year-old patient. An investigation found that Vaught overrode multiple safeguards in the hospital’s medication system. The board eventually revoked her license, and she was later convicted of criminally negligent homicide; sparking a national debate about systemic errors versus individual accountability in healthcare.
#4. Criminal Convictions:
Nurses who engage in criminal activities, even unrelated to their work, may face disciplinary actions if the behavior is deemed inconsistent with the integrity required of a nurse.
Case Example: In Texas, a nurse was convicted of healthcare fraud after billing Medicare for home health services that were never provided. The investigation revealed that the nurse fabricated patient charts and signed off on treatments that never occurred. The board revoked her license permanently, and she was sentenced to five years in federal prison. This case underscored the importance of ethical behavior both on and off the job.
#5. Violation of Patient Privacy:
Patient confidentiality is a cornerstone of nursing ethics, and breaches of privacy, whether intentional or accidental, are taken very seriously.
Case Example: In Florida, a nurse was fired and later disciplined after posting a photo of a patient’s medical chart on social media as part of a humorous meme about workplace stress. Although the patient’s name was not visible, other identifying details were present. The post went viral, and the hospital launched an investigation after receiving complaints. The nurse’s license was suspended for six months, and she was required to complete a course on HIPAA compliance.
Conclusion:
These case examples demonstrate the serious consequences of violating professional and ethical standards in nursing. Registered nurses should remain vigilant about adhering to regulations, reporting issues, and maintaining the highest standards of practice to ensure patient safety and professional integrity.
To learn more about these legal topics, check out our courses on demand (with extensive written materials):
➡️ The Nurse’s Law School – A Practical Legal Guide for Nurses (7.6 CE Hours)
➡️ The Board of Nursing and How to Protect Your Nursing License (2.5 CE Hours)
➡️ Common California Board of Nursing Charges and How to Defend Yourself (4.0 CE hours)
Sincerely,
Laurie Elston JD BSN
www.NursingLawCenter.com
Law Office of Laurie R. Elston Inc.
📞 T: (805) 481-1001
📧 Email: [email protected]
