Question:
Dear Nancy,
A situation happened at our facility that involved three shifts. The employer states they are required to report the situation to the board of nursing and suggested that the nurses report it themselves. The employer has given the staff two weeks to do so, and then they will report it. Should the nurses wait until they hear from the board of nursing or should they self-report? I have never been in this situation before.
Shelby
Nancy Brent replies:
Dear Shelby,
The situation you are being asked to self-report must be a serious one. Clearly, it has been said that if you do not self-report, the facility will report you to the board of nursing.
As you may know, some nurse practice acts require nurses to self-report if they have been, as examples, terminated from a position, have had a disciplinary action taken against them in another state, or are dropped from membership in a professional nursing association. If a nurse licensee does not self-report as required, the nurse can be disciplined for that non-reporting, in addition to the basis triggering the requirement to self-report.
It would be in your best interest to seek a consultation with a nurse attorney or attorney who works with healthcare providers, including nurses, and who knows the state nurse practice act and its rules. Although it may be accurate that you must self-report in this situation, having legal advice in doing so, and in representing you before the board, should the board take action against you, is essential.
Sincerely,
Nancy
