Thinking about the board of registered nursing license disciplinary actions that can happen if you’re convicted of a crime can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the criminal trial process. When you’ve worked for years to earn your nursing license, the thought of losing your job and career over a DUI or drug conviction could be frustrating and demoralizing. Unlock Legal, an Orange County, California-based professional license defense firm, wants you to know that the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) can hand down disciplinary action other than a complete revocation of your license.
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The BRN generally will take action against you if you have a criminal conviction. Sometimes, even if you avoid the conviction, they can file an accusation against you based on the underlying facts and actions pertaining to the case.
To understand how and why these decisions are made, it helps to know the rules that guide the BRN, beginning with the Nurse Practice Act.
Why the Nurse Practice Act Matters for Every Nurse
The Nurse Practice Act (NPA) is the foundation of every nurse’s career in California. It’s a collection of state laws that outline what nurses can and can’t do, the education and training required and the standards of professional conduct expected in the field. When the BRN reviews a case, they use the NPA to decide whether a nurse’s actions meet those standards. For nurses facing possible disciplinary action, knowing what’s in the NPA can make a big difference. It helps you understand your rights, your responsibilities and how to build a strong defense if your professional conduct is called into question.
Types of Disciplinary Actions the BRN May Take
Even though every case is unique, the BRN follows certain guidelines when deciding how to respond to alleged violations. Depending on the circumstances, disciplinary actions can range from minor penalties to serious consequences that affect your ability to practice.
Whether or not you were convicted of a crime, your license may be disciplined in the following ways:
Reprimand or Censure
Before probation or other more serious actions, the BRN may issue a formal reprimand or censure. A reprimand is an official written notice of disapproval for your conduct as a nurse, while a censure publicly documents a violation of professional standards. Both actions serve as warnings and may not prevent you from practicing, but they remain on your professional record and can affect employment opportunities.
Probation
If you’re put on probation, you’ll be allowed to continue practicing as a registered nurse under conditions set by the BRN. Those conditions only need to be followed for a certain amount of time, but your license could be suspended or revoked if the terms are violated within that period. Once the probation is over, you can return to practice nursing without any restrictions.
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Citation and fine
The BRN may cite and fine nurses who have committed minor violations of California’s Nursing Practice Act, according to the board’s website. The BRN Citation and Fine System is an informal process for handling violations that do not warrant formal disciplinary action from the board.
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Revocation or suspension of license
The BRN could revoke or suspend a nursing license, which prohibits you from practicing. A license suspension might be set before a probation period, or it could be imposed because of a probation violation. If the license is revoked, you will be permanently forbidden from practicing as a nurse or using the title.
What to Do If You Are Facing Disciplinary Actions As a Nurse
Nurses can face disciplinary action for a variety of reasons, including criminal convictions, substance abuse, medication errors, falsifying patient records, unprofessional conduct, or violations of the Nurse Practice Act. If you are a nurse facing disciplinary action, it’s important to:
- Take all notices from the BRN seriously and respond promptly.
- Seek representation from a professional license defense firm experienced with nursing boards.
- Gather documentation and evidence that demonstrates your professionalism and adherence to standards.
- Understand the possible outcomes and your rights to appeal any disciplinary decision.
If you’re having issues with your nursing license, contact a professional license defense firm like Unlock Legal. Miranda McCroskey and the Unlock Legal team have experience defending nursing licenses before the BRN and will help you navigate the initial BRN investigation, the board hearing, and the possible appeals process.
Contact Unlock Legal today or give us a call at your convenience at 949-988-4444 to speak with a professional about your case and your unique needs. You’ll find we are compassionate, easy to talk to, and willing to help in any capacity we can.
Unlock Legal provides focused representation in criminal defense and defense for California licensed professionals.
