Milwaukee Nursing License Defense Lawyers
Professional Medical License Defense for Nurses in Wisconsin
Nurses in Wisconsin may face a number of challenges when it comes to defending their medical licenses against disciplinary action. A nurse who is accused of violating the law, engaging in misconduct, or acting in ways that put patients at risk of harm may be investigated by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing, and they could face disciplinary action such as the suspension or revocation of their nursing license, a refusal to renew a license, an official reprimand, the requirement to pay fines, or being placed on probation. These issues can significantly affect a nurse's ability to continue working in the medical field, and their reputation may be irreparably damaged.
Because of the potential risks a nurse may face when being investigated for violations that could result in disciplinary action, it is important for anyone in this situation to seek out experienced legal representation from a qualified attorney. At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, we have a great deal of experience representing nurses and other medical professionals in matters related to professional license defense. We can make sure your rights are protected while advocating for solutions that will allow you to continue working as a nurse in the future. With our experienced legal team on your side, you can rest assured knowing that your nurse license defense case is being handled with the utmost care and attention.
Addressing Disciplinary Issues That May Affect Nurses
Nurses in Wisconsin may face disciplinary action for a wide variety of reasons. These include failing to meet the standards of practice set by the Board of Nursing, engaging in unethical or illegal activities, neglecting patient care and safety, or committing fraud. Some of the most common reasons for discipline include:
- Practicing beyond the scope of one's license - Nurses are subject to certain types of limitations based on the type of license they have, and exceeding these limitations may result in discipline. For example, advanced practice nurses may be authorized to write prescriptions for patients, but if other types of nurses attempt to prescribe medications or dispense certain types of drugs without authorization, they may be subject to discipline.
- Drug diversion - Nurses may work with controlled substances such as opioid pain medications, and they may be authorized to dispense or administer these drugs to patients. However, if they misuse or mishandle these drugs, such as by administering controlled substances to themselves, stealing drugs from a medical office and selling or distributing them to others, or recommending that controlled substances be prescribed to patients when this form of treatment is not medically necessary, they may not only face disciplinary action, but they could also face criminal investigations and drug crime charges.
- Inappropriate conduct - Nurses may be subject to discipline for engaging in unethical or illegal behaviors. This conduct could include sexual harassment or assault, falsifying patient records, or exploiting patients for personal or financial benefit.
- Substance abuse - The use of illegal drugs or the abuse of legal substances such as alcohol may result in discipline if these actions significantly affect a nurse's ability to provide safe and effective care for patients.
- Criminal convictions - Nurses are required to report any misdemeanor or felony convictions to the Board of Nursing. Failure to do so could result in discipline, and depending on the nature of a conviction and whether it is related to the practice of nursing, the conviction itself may also be seen as a reason for disciplinary action. Nurses who are arrested for DUI/OWI will usually also be subject to discipline, which may include the suspension or revocation of their licenses.
Contact Our Milwaukee, WI Nursing License Defense Attorneys
At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, we are committed to helping nurses in Wisconsin protect their licenses. We have extensive experience representing medical professionals in matters involving disciplinary action, and we can provide you with experienced legal counsel to address complaints, investigations, disciplinary hearings, and appeals. If you are a nurse who has been accused of violating professional standards, please do not hesitate to contact us today for help by calling 414-271-1440. Our team will work diligently to protect your rights and help you resolve these issues successfully.