A Controlled Substance is a drug regulated by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) in the United States. It is being regulated by the government due to the reason that it may be abused or cause addiction. RNs have the responsibility in proper handling of these substances. But if you are having issues regarding controlled substances, a nurse lawyer can help you.
On or about March 25, 2019, while employed as a Registered Nurse at a hospital in Mesquite Texas, the RN withdrew one (1) Norco tablet from the medication dispensing system for the patient but failed to document and/or accurately and completely document the administration of the medication in the patients’ Medication Administration Record (MAR) and/or Nurses’ Notes. The RN’s conduct could have exposed the patient to a risk of harm from inaccurate documentation.
On or about August 19, 2019, while employed as a Registered Nurse at a hospital in Mesquite, Texas, Respondent withdrew Xanax 0.5mg from the medication dispensing system for a patient but failed to document and/or accurately and completely document the administration of the medication in the patient’s Medication Administration Record (MAR) and/or Nurses’ Notes. The RN’s conduct could have exposed the patient to a risk of harm from inaccurate documentation.
In response to the above mentioned incident, the RN states the physician confirmed the medication was given and that restrictions by management made it difficult to chart in real time and, therefore, it was not unusual for hours to elapse before an encounter was available for a nurse to chart on.
In addition, the RN also states that the patient did not have an armband, which meant she had to wait for appointed staff to print an armband and that nurses were prohibited from charting until a medication administration encounter, created by appointed staff, had been generated.
The RN added that she understands that maintaining security and being accountable for the inventory of the controlled substances and all other medications in her possession is her responsibility. She states that she has learned to carefully double check her charting and makes appropriate and timely entries.
Thus, the RN is facing the consequences of her actions. The Board has to take the RN into disciplinary action since the RN has not been able to have a nurse lawyer by her side to defend her
Having a nurse lawyer around during the trial of your case can change the outcome of the case you are dealing with. So, if ever you have questions about the Texas Board of Nursing disciplinary process? Contact The Law Office of RN License Attorney Yong J. An for a confidential consultation by calling or texting 24/7 at (832) 428-5679 and ask for attorney Yong.