Nurse disciplinary action in Texas is serious. Nurses are held to high professional standards, and the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) is tasked with ensuring that these standards are maintained. When nurses deviate from these expectations, they may face disciplinary actions ranging from warnings to license revocation. Understanding the common reasons for such disciplinary measures can help nurses navigate their responsibilities and maintain their licensure.
Unprofessional Conduct
Unprofessional behavior encompasses actions that could deceive, defraud, or harm patients or the public. Examples include unsafe practices, boundary violations, falsifying records, and threatening behavior in the workplace.
Substance Abuse
The BON takes substance abuse seriously, especially when it endangers patient safety. Practicing nursing while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation.
Criminal Convictions
Convictions for felonies or misdemeanors involving moral turpitude, such as fraud or assault, can result in disciplinary measures. The BON assesses the nature of the crime and its relevance to nursing practice.
Documentation Errors
Accurate documentation is crucial in nursing. Errors or omissions in patient records, medication administration logs, or other essential documents can lead to disciplinary action.
Patient Abandonment
Leaving a patient without proper notice or without ensuring continuity of care is considered patient abandonment. Such actions can compromise patient safety and result in disciplinary measures.
HIPAA Violations
Protecting patient privacy is a legal and ethical obligation. Unauthorized disclosure of patient information can lead to disciplinary action and legal consequences.
Failure to Meet Continuing Education Requirements
Nurses in Texas are required to complete 20 contact hours of continuing education every two years. These hours must be earned within the two-year period preceding the license renewal. Additionally, nurses must complete 2 hours of CNE related to nursing jurisprudence and nursing ethics. Failure to meet this requirement can result in disciplinary action.
Practicing Without a Valid License
Practicing nursing with an expired or invalid license is a violation of the Nursing Practice Act and can lead to disciplinary measures.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining professional conduct and adhering to the standards set by the Texas Board of Nursing are essential for a successful nursing career in Texas. Being aware of the common reasons for disciplinary action can help nurses avoid pitfalls and ensure they provide safe, ethical, and competent care to their patients.