A licensed nurse in Texas may be subjected to a disciplinary proceeding before the Texas Board of Nursing. Whenever a LVN or RN finds herself in such situation, she will need to find the best nurse attorney in the country. This is important, as it is her only chance to protect her license. Otherwise, the Board of Nursing may find her guilty in the administrative case and order for the revocation of her license.
The disciplinary proceeding before the Texas Board of Nurse (BON) is an administrative proceeding wherein LVN / RN are charged for the commission of an offense or violation of certain state laws.
An LVN is El Paso was one of the thousands of nurses charged before the Board of Nursing. In this case, a female patient accused the LVN of negligence and causing a resulting injury when she needed three attempts to successfully start an intravenous catheter.
On or about January 29, 2002, a female patient came to the hospital with vague complaints of abdominal pain and was evaluated in the Emergency Department. The physician’s orders for treatment included intravenous medications for which a line would need to be started.
The LVN was assigned to the patient when the Intravenous Catheter was to be placed. The LVN was having difficulty finding veins in the woman’s arms. She then attempted twice to start a line in her hand and was successful on the third attempt.
It was the policy of the hospital at that time, that a nurse may attempt an intravenous catheter insertion no more than two times before calling for assistance.
Following her discharge, the patient filed a suit alleging negligence on the part of the LVN. Specifically, she claimed a poorly performed catheter insertion caused her to develop Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, a chronic condition characterized by severe burning pain, pathological changes in bone and skin, excessive sweating, tissue swelling, and extreme sensitivity to touch, in her right hand.
The LVN was summoned and investigated by the Texas Board of Nursing. She stated that on review of the chart and following expert testimony, no deficiencies in technique could be found in the placement of the catheter. By her employment record and training, she was fully qualified to place intravenous catheters as a part of her scope of practice as a licensed nurse.
However, her lack of an experienced nurse attorney to properly defend her case led to the suspension of her license.
Do you have questions about the Texas Board of Nursing disciplinary process? Contact The Law Office of Yong J. An for a confidential consultation by calling or texting 24/7 at (832) 428-5679 and ask for attorney Yong