The swift recognition and response to changes in a patient’s condition are paramount in ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare. For nurses facing allegations related to response failures or delayed actions in critical situations, seeking the guidance of a nurse attorney is essential. In situations like the one described in the case below, a nurse attorney can play a crucial role in evaluating the circumstances surrounding the incident, examining the nurse’s adherence to established protocols, and developing a robust defense strategy. Their legal acumen allows them to navigate the complex healthcare laws, regulations, and standards, ensuring that the nurse’s rights are protected throughout the legal process.
At the time of the incident, she was employed as an RN at a medical facility in Arlington, Texas, and had been in that position for one (1) year.
On or about March 5, 2021, through March 6, 2021, while employed as an RN at a medical facility in Arlington, Texas, RN failed to timely call a rapid response team (RRT) for assistance in response to a patient’s change in condition. RN called the physician, but the voicemail was full. RN also reported her concerns to her charge nurse. Shortly after RN called the RRT, the patient coded.
In response, RN states that she made an intentional and purposeful call to the provider, which is how she knew the doctor’s voicemail was full, and then escalated her concerns to the charge nurse. RN adds that the culture and unwritten rules of the facility prevented her from calling a different physician. As she was at the patient’s bedside, she immediately recognized a change in condition and initiated RRT. RN continues to be employed by the medical facility where she has been approached as a preceptor and charge nurse.
The above action constitutes grounds for disciplinary action in accordance with Section 301.452(b)(10)&(13) Texas Occupations Code, and is a violation of 22 TEX ADMIN. CODE §217.11(1)(A),(1)(B),(1)(M)&(1)(P) and 22 TEX. ADMIN. CODE §217.12 (1)(A),(1)(B)&(4).
The Texas Board of Nursing then subjected the RN’s license to disciplinary action. The accusation would have been defended by an experienced and skilled nurse attorney, had the RN hired one. Hiring a nurse attorney for defense is applicable for any kind of accusation laid against an RN or LVN.
Always remember that anyone can file a complaint against an RN/LVN with the state board for any reason. When this happens, all complaints need to be taken seriously no matter how trivial or unfounded they may appear. A nurse attorney is someone who can help you defend your license when the state board summons you. Equip yourself with the knowledge and expertise you need for a successful outcome by consulting a knowledgeable and experienced Texas RN license attorney. Texas Nurse Attorney Yong J. An is an experienced nurse attorney for various licensing cases for the past 17 years and represented over 500 nurses before the Texas BON. Contact the Law Office of Yong J. An 24/7 through text or call at (832) 428-5679.