Question:
Dear Nancy,
Fifteen years ago, a nurse accused me of initialing a flow sheet 24 hours after I should have, which I did do. But she also said I wrote her initials in a block, which I did not. This was dropped by the board of nursing; however, I did get a letter in my file and it is noted when I am searched in the board of nursing records. At the time, the policy was to fill in all blanks on a form. After what happen to me, the policy changed. Even though I was questioned about it, I was able to get a part-time job because I have an excellent work record. I was told this could be removed from my record. How can I get my record cleared? I would like to apply for a supervisory position and fear this will hurt my chances.
Dear Nancy,
Fifteen years ago, a nurse accused me of initialing a flow sheet 24 hours after I should have, which I did do. But she also said I wrote her initials in a block, which I did not. This was dropped by the board of nursing; however, I did get a letter in my file and it is noted when I am searched in the board of nursing records. At the time, the policy was to fill in all blanks on a form. After what happen to me, the policy changed. Even though I was questioned about it, I was able to get a part-time job because I have an excellent work record. I was told this could be removed from my record. How can I get my record cleared? I would like to apply for a supervisory position and fear this will hurt my chances.
Sissy
Nancy Brent replies:
Dear Sissy,
If your state board of nursing allows for any disciplinary actions to be removed from their database after a certain period of time, you should do so as soon as possible. The board may have instructions on how to have those disciplinary actions expunged. Check the board's website or call and ask for written brochures or pamphlets. Also check the nurse practice act and rules, as either or both may provide guidance.
If there are no specific instructions, or you do not think you can do this yourself, hire a nurse attorney or attorney in your state that can help you with this, so it is done correctly.
There may be future employers who will see the disciplinary report before it is removed. Honestly speaking about what happened, including sharing any documentation you have about the initial incident and its expungement, may be necessary.
Dear Sissy,
If your state board of nursing allows for any disciplinary actions to be removed from their database after a certain period of time, you should do so as soon as possible. The board may have instructions on how to have those disciplinary actions expunged. Check the board's website or call and ask for written brochures or pamphlets. Also check the nurse practice act and rules, as either or both may provide guidance.
If there are no specific instructions, or you do not think you can do this yourself, hire a nurse attorney or attorney in your state that can help you with this, so it is done correctly.
There may be future employers who will see the disciplinary report before it is removed. Honestly speaking about what happened, including sharing any documentation you have about the initial incident and its expungement, may be necessary.
Sincerely,
Nancy
Nancy J. Brent, RN, MS, JD, is an attorney in private practice in Wilmette, Ill. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal or any other advice. The reader is encouraged to seek the advice of an attorney or other professional when an opinion is needed.
